Form I-589, officially titled Application for Asylum and for Withholding of Removal, is the form used to apply for asylum in the United States.

What Is It Used For?

  • To request asylum in the U.S. based on persecution or fear of persecution in your home country.
  • To apply for withholding of removal, a separate form of protection similar to asylum but with more limited benefits.

You can submit this form whether your case is handled by USCIS (if you’re not in immigration court) or by the immigration judge (if you are in removal proceedings).

Key Facts

  • There is no fee to file Form I-589.
  • You must file it within one year of your last arrival in the U.S. (unless you qualify for an exception).
  • The form is 28 pages long and asks about your identity, background, family, past persecution, and fear of future harm.

What Happens After Filing?

  • USCIS or the immigration court will schedule a fingerprinting appointment for biometrics.
  • You may be called for an asylum interview (if USCIS) or an Individual Hearing (if in court).
  • After 150 days, you may be eligible to apply for work authorization if your case is still pending.

Additional Resources

This page is for informational purposes only and does not offer legal advice.

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