Ms. W, who had faced persecution in China for participating in rights advocacy, filed for political asylum in the United States in March 2024. After filing, she patiently waited in accordance with USCIS procedures. However, as time went on, online rumors began to circulate claiming there was a so-called “presidential directive” stating that asylum would no longer be approved after March 28, 2025. These unfounded rumors left Ms. W deeply anxious, and she even considered withdrawing her case to pursue other immigration options.
In her time of urgency, Ms. W turned to Law Office of Han Shu. Attorney Shu carefully explained to her that neither USCIS nor the immigration courts had issued any such policy, and that the adjudication standards had not changed. He advised her not to believe unofficial rumors, but instead to continue with her case under normal procedures. At the same time, the legal team helped Ms. W strengthen her evidence by documenting her public activities in the U.S., her social media advocacy, and preparing consistent testimony through multiple mock interviews.
In early April 2025, Ms. W received her asylum interview notice. With Attorney Shu accompanying her, she successfully completed the interview, providing clear answers and comprehensive evidence. The interviewing officer recognized the strength of her case.
By the end of July 2025, Ms. W received official approval of both her asylum application and her green card.
This case demonstrates that even after March 28, asylum applications continued to be adjudicated as normal—there was no “halt” to approvals. As a nation with a well-established legal system and clear separation of powers, the United States does not operate on informal “presidential directives.” As long as a case is supported by strong evidence and meets eligibility criteria, approval remains achievable.
