Nahrvani

I.

BACKGROUND

Nahrvani entered the United States on or about April 15, 1999. Approximately one year later, the Immigration and Nat- uralization Service (INS) issued Nahrvani a Notice to Appear alleging that he was removable under Section 237(a)(1)(B) of the Immigration and Naturalization Act for remaining in the United States longer than was permitted. Nahrvani conceded removability, but submitted an application for asylum and withholding of removal. In the alternative, Nahrvani requested that the case be reviewed under the CAT.

In support of his application, Nahrvani testified that, while living in Iran, he was arrested and jailed for approximately two years as a result of his participation in an anti-government demonstration. During his incarceration, Nahrvani was repeat- edly tortured. He fled to Germany in 1989, where he was granted political asylum and permanent residency.

Nahrvani lived in Germany for approximately ten years. During that time, Nahrvani owned a car, and traveled and worked without restriction. Nahrvani converted to Christian- ity and married a German Lutheran pastor. Nahrvani sought German citizenship, but was informed that he must first renounce his…