Qualifying for Protection Under the Convention Against Torture

Protection under the Convention Against Torture (CAT) is an important relief option for individuals who are unable to qualify for asylum or withholding of removal. This advisory reviews the legal standard for CAT protection. It also provides an overview of seminal Board of Immigration Appeals and federal circuit court decisions that discuss the various elements of a CAT claim. The end of the advisory contains a useful chart which compares asylum, withholding of removal, and CAT.

Immigrant Legal Resource Center Chart Nov 21, 2023 Direct PDF available

Why it matters

Useful as a quick-reference tool for Asylum; confirm current authority before relying on it in a filing.

Topics

Asylum Withholding / CAT Removal defense BIA appeals

Workflows

Immigration court deadline Asylum merits package BIA, PFR, and federal court Sample filings and templates

Forums

BIA Court of appeals

Jurisdictions

National