1. United States
2. Pa.
3. Letter

I am writing to you today as a concerned constituent to express my strong opposition to the new fees for asylum applications. This policy, which now requires a $100 fee to submit a new application and an additional $100 for each year an application is pending, is deeply unjust and runs counter to our nation’s foundational principles. Historically, the ability to seek asylum has been a humanitarian act and a cornerstone of international law, providing a safe harbor for individuals fleeing persecution, violence, and war. It has always been understood as a right—a form of legal protection—not a service to be bought. Imposing these fees creates an insurmountable barrier for the very people who are most in need of our protection. Individuals and families who have fled their homes often arrive with nothing, having left all their possessions behind. Demanding hundreds of dollars in fees effectively denies them the right to even have their case considered, undermining the core purpose of asylum. Furthermore, the yearly renewal fee is particularly punitive. It adds a layer of economic burden and anxiety to an already protracted and stressful process. Asylum applications can take years to be adjudicated, meaning applicants could be forced to pay hundreds or even thousands of dollars simply to maintain their case. This creates an endless cycle of debt for people with no means, punishing them for the long delays in our own immigration system. I urge you to take a stand against this cruel and unjust policy. Please advocate for the immediate repeal of these fees and support legislation that restores free access to the asylum process. Ensuring that all individuals, regardless of their financial situation, can seek protection from persecution is a reflection of our values as a nation. Thank you for your time and consideration of this critical issue.