Which section of the Immigration and Nationality Act governs asylum eligibility?

The rationale for selecting this answer lies in the specific provisions outlined in the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA) related to asylum eligibility. Section 208 of the INA explicitly defines the criteria and processes for individuals seeking asylum in the United States. This section outlines the requirements for demonstrating a well-founded fear of persecution based on race, religion, nationality, membership in a particular social group, or political opinion, which are key factors in establishing eligibility for asylum.

This section also details the procedures for applying for asylum, including the timeframe within which an individual must file their application after arriving in the U.S. Alongside these definitions, Section 208 emphasizes the protection available to those who meet the necessary criteria, highlighting the importance of safeguarding individuals from threats in their home countries.

In contrast, the other sections cited do not pertain to asylum eligibility. For example, Section 204 relates to the petitions for immigrant visas and the process for family-sponsored or employment-based immigrants. Section 212 covers inadmissibility grounds, which determine whether an individual is barred from entering the U.S. Lastly, Section 101 provides general definitions and classifications related to immigration but does not specifically address asylum. Therefore, Section 208 stands out distinctly as the governing section for asylum eligibility within the