ASYLUM – You arrive in the United States seeking protection, carrying evidence of persecution, fear, and hope for safety. Yet one factor outside the merits of your case may shape your future more than any other: geography. New data shows that where an asylum case is heard can dramatically influence whether it is granted or denied.
The research by immigration lawyers at The Mendoza Law Firm analyzed immigration court decisions issued between 2020 and 2025, with outcomes averaged among all judges in each immigration court, using data from TRAC Immigration at Syracuse University. Cities were ranked based on the percentage of cases granted asylum versus denied to ensure consistent comparison across jurisdictions.
Top 10 U.S. Cities With the Highest Asylum Acceptance Rates
Immigration Court (City)
State
Total Decisions 2020-2025 (Averaged Among All Judges)
% Granted Asylum
% Denied
Rank
San Francisco
California
657
67.55
29.49
1
Sacramento
California
477
66.52
32.36
2
Honolulu
Hawaii
222
61.00
36.90
3
New York
New York
635
59.21
38.45
4
Las Vegas
Nevada
679
59.16
36.52
5
West Valley
Utah
1070
58.30
40.04
6
Concord
California
303
57.08
41.69
7
Chicago
Illinois
453
55.61
41.52
8
Imperial
California
291
55.42
32.62
9
Van Nuys
California
405
47.11
48.84
10
San Francisco, California, ranks first nationwide, granting asylum in 67.55% of cases and denying 29.49%, based on an average of 657 decisions among all judges. Another 2.97% of cases resulted in alternative forms of relief.
Looking at the study, a spokesperson from The Mendoza Law Firm commented:
“According to the data, asylum approval rates differ substantially by location, even when decisions are averaged across all judges within each court, with San Francisco showing one of the highest acceptance rates nationwide.
“For asylum seekers nationwide, these geographic differences can significantly impact case outcomes, independent of the underlying claims.”
What Asylum Seekers Should Know: Navigating a System Where Location Can Decide Your Fate
Here’s a practical survival guide for individuals seeking asylum in the United States:
Recognize the Geographic Red Flags
Asylum approval rates vary dramatically by immigration court
Some courts deny the majority of cases regardless of merit
High denial rates often reflect local court trends, not weaker claims
Filing location can matter as much as evidence quality
The Venue Awareness Rule
Understand that asylum outcomes differ sharply by city and court
Research historical grant and denial rates before filing when lawful options exist
Avoid assuming uniform treatment across jurisdictions
Seek legal advice early to evaluate venue-related risks
The Legal Preparation Protocol
Work with immigration attorneys experienced in local court practices
Prepare detailed, well-documented claims tailored to stricter courts
Anticipate higher scrutiny in low-approval jurisdictions
Strengthen corroborating evidence when filing outside high-grant cities
If You’re Facing a Denial or Removal Risk
Consult an immigration attorney immediately
Explore appeals, motions to reopen, or alternative relief options
Document all filings, decisions, and deadlines carefully
Avoid proceeding without legal guidance, especially in high-denial courts
Methodology
The study was conducted by The Mendoza Law Firm, which specializes in immigration law and personal injury cases. The firm provides legal representation to clients facing deportation, seeking immigration status adjustments, and pursuing compensation for accident-related injuries.
The study analyzed immigration court decisions issued between 2020 and 2025, with outcomes averaged among all judges in each immigration court, using data from TRAC Immigration at Syracuse University. Cities were ranked based on the percentage of cases granted asylum versus denied to ensure consistent comparison across jurisdictions.
Data Sources:
Study By: https://mendozafirm.com