The U.S. Department of Justice’s Executive Office for Immigration Review has revealed that the asylum approval rate for Nepalis in U.S. immigration courts stood at 60 percent in fiscal year 2024. Although this figure remains among the highest globally, it represents a decline from the previous year’s approval rate of 64 percent.
In fiscal year 2024, a total of 826 asylum cases involving Nepali applicants were heard in U.S. immigration courts. Among these, 493 cases were approved, reflecting the 60 percent approval rate. Additionally, 128 cases (15.5 percent) were denied, and 10 cases were abandoned by applicants.
Meanwhile, 185 cases were not adjudicated after hearings, and 10 cases were withdrawn by applicants. Cases administratively closed were minimal and not included in the reported data, according to EOIR.
Comparing this to fiscal year 2023, there were 936 asylum cases involving Nepalis. Of these, 601 (64 percent) were approved, 123 (14 percent) were denied, and 206 (22 percent) were not adjudicated. The data indicate a slight decrease in approval rates and a similar trend in the pending case load.
A significant portion of Nepali asylum cases originate with a Credible Fear Claim. In fiscal year 2023, 72 percent of such claims (335 cases) were approved.
However, this approval rate dropped in fiscal year 2024, with only 68.3 percent (241 cases) approved out of the 353. During this period, 52 cases were denied that originated with a Credible Fear Claim, and 60 cases were not adjudicated after hearings.
The COVID-19 pandemic significantly impacted asylum case outcomes, with fewer approvals due to court delays. In 2021, only 143 Nepalis were granted asylum, while the figure for 2020 was 308. Despite these challenges, Nepalis achieved a record-breaking year in 2019, with 606 asylum approvals—the highest recorded to date.
Other historical data indicate consistent trends in Nepali asylum approvals. In 2022, there were 488 approvals. Previous years include 470 in 2018, 290 in 2017, 260 in 2016, 250 in 2015, 292 in 2014, and 381 in 2013.
Kishor Panthi
View More PostsKishor Panthi is the founder and editor-in-chief of Khasokhas and NepYork. He is the author of three books, “Kampan,” "UNTRANSLATABLE" and “Zero Mile.” He writes about social issues, immigration, and politics.
