How Master Calendar Hearings Are Affecting Asylum Applicants’ Work Authorization

For many asylum seekers in the United States, obtaining work authorization is a critical step toward stability and self-sufficiency. Under U.S. immigration law, asylum applicants are generally eligible to apply for work authorization 150 days after filing their asylum application, provided that no delays are caused by the applicant. However, recent practices in immigration courts are creating unintended barriers for many applicants.

Master Calendar Hearings and the Asylum Clock

Immigration court proceedings typically begin with a Master Calendar Hearing (MCH), which is a preliminary hearing where procedural matters are addressed, including scheduling, pleadings, and initial appearances. While these hearings are meant to streamline the court process, the way the asylum clock is being managed at MCHs is causing concern.

In many cases, the asylum clock — which tracks the time before an applicant can request work authorization — is being stopped at the master calendar hearing, even before the required 150-day waiting period has passed. This practice means that the time the applicant has waited toward eligibility is frozen, delaying their ability to apply for a work permit.

The Consequences for Asylum Applicants

For asylum seekers, stopping the clock early has significant implications:

• Delayed work authorization prevents applicants from legally working, creating financial strain and reliance on others.

• Increased uncertainty can affect mental health and overall well-being.

• Applicants may face longer periods without income while waiting for their cases to advance in court.

  
  

What Can Be Done

If your asylum clock is being stopped prematurely, there are steps an experienced immigration attorney can take:

1. Verify the calculation of the asylum clock and ensure it accurately reflects time that should count toward eligibility.

2. Request a review or clarification from the immigration court if the clock has been incorrectly paused.

3. Contact the immigration court (for defensive asylum cases) or USCIS (for affirmative asylum cases) to challenge the fact that the clock was stopped and request that it be restarted.

4. Prepare for timely work authorization applications once the 150-day threshold is met.

   
   

How Omole Law Firm Can Help

At Omole Law Firm, we help asylum seekers navigate the complexities of immigration court proceedings and the work authorization process. Our attorneys carefully track the asylum clock, monitor master calendar hearings, and advocate for applicants to ensure they can access work authorization as soon as they are eligible.

Receiving a work permit is not just about legal status — it’s about enabling asylum seekers to support themselves and their families while their cases move forward. With careful guidance and proactive representation, applicants can avoid unnecessary delays and take steps toward stability.

Conclusion

Master calendar hearings are an important part of immigration court, but when they stop the asylum clock prematurely, they can create real hardships for applicants. Working with an experienced attorney can make all the difference in ensuring your rights and eligibility are protected.

If you are an asylum applicant and have concerns about your asylum clock or work authorization, contact Omole Law Firm today to schedule a consultation.