Asylum

Immigration status sought by a person either entering the U.S. or already physically in the U.S. who has a reasonable fear of persecution because of race, religion, nationality, membership in a particular social group or political opinion, if forced to return to their country of last residence.

Aliens who have remained in the U.S. for less than one year and are part of an eligible asylum class (i.e. persecuted due to political party, race, religion, gender, sexual orientation group, social group, etc.)
Visa Duration

The asylum duration status can be held until a green card is available.
However, the work authorization must be renewed on a yearly basis until a green card is obtained. The waiting period for asylumees is approximately between 5 and 7 years to obtain a green card.