Understanding Particular Social Group Claims
Because explaining why you were targeted can be just as important as explaining what happened to you.
“Particular social group” is one of the most common grounds people rely on when they apply for asylum. It is also one of the hardest to understand. Many applicants can tell their story clearly, but they often struggle to explain why they were targeted and how their experience fits the law.
What this guide explains
- How particular social group claims work
- How they are analyzed in asylum cases
- How to identify possible groups
- Who might be part of a social group
- How to check whether a group qualifies
- What the law requires
- How to connect the applicant’s story to the legal requirements
The guide helps you understand one of the most important ideas in asylum law. It can also help you spot issues to explore further as you prepare your application.
It also includes a sample declaration, provided for reference purposes to demonstrate the format, structure and content typically required.
Educational information, not legal advice. CIELO provides educational materials about the U.S. immigration process. CIELO is not a law firm and does not provide legal advice. Purchasing these materials does not create an attorney-client relationship, and no outcome is promised or implied. Immigration law changes frequently, always confirm current requirements with U.S. Government sites. For advice about your individual case, consult a licensed immigration attorney or a BIA-accredited representative.