Where does this data come from?

This is EOIR data (Executive Office for Immigration Review, US Department of Justice) released under the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA), as of September 30, 2026. How the figures are calculated — see “How we calculate”.

US asylum by country of origin

Frequently asked questions

Nationals of which countries get asylum in the US more often?

Over 5 years, among countries with 1,000 or more decisions at final hearings, applicants from these countries were approved most often: Eritrea (78.3%), Afghanistan (73.2%), Ethiopia (72.5%); least often: Colombia (15.5%), Bolivia (17.2%), Senegal (17.3%). Average: 34.9%.

Which countries have the most immigration court cases?

Over 5 years, the most cases were completed for applicants from: Mexico (371,152), Guatemala (338,594), Honduras (309,428), Venezuela (195,824), Cuba (194,039).

Why does the approval rate depend on the country?

The decision depends on what threatens the person at home and how well it is supported: country conditions, the reasons for persecution, evidence. Case circumstances matter too: how many applicants are detained, how many have an attorney, which courts hear the cases.