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The USCIS I-589 form plays a crucial role in the asylum process for individuals seeking protection in the United States. This application allows individuals to request asylum based on a well-founded fear of persecution in their home country. It serves as a formal declaration of their intent to seek refuge and outlines the reasons for their fear, which may stem from factors such as race, religion, nationality, political opinion, or membership in a particular social group. Completing the I-589 form accurately is essential, as it initiates the legal proceedings that will determine the applicant's eligibility for asylum. Furthermore, the form must be submitted within one year of arrival in the U.S., unless certain exceptions apply. Applicants must also provide detailed personal information, including their immigration history and any previous encounters with law enforcement. The process can be complex and emotionally taxing, but understanding the components of the I-589 form can empower individuals to navigate their asylum claims more effectively.

USCIS I-589 Example

 

Application for Asylum and for

 

 

 

Withholding of Removal

USCIS

 

 

Department of Homeland Security

Form I-589

 

 

OMB No. 1615-0067

 

 

U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services

Expires 09/30/2027

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

START HERE - Type or print in black ink. See the instructions for information about eligibility and how to complete and file this application.

NOTE:

Check this box if you also want to apply for withholding of removal under the Convention Against Torture.

Part A.I. Information About You

1.

Alien Registration Number(s) (A-Number) (if any)

2. U.S. Social Security Number (if any) 3. USCIS Online Account Number (if any)

4.

Complete Last Name

5. First Name

6. Middle Name

7.What other names have you used (include maiden name and aliases)?

8.Residence in the U.S. (where you physically reside)

Street Number and Name

 

 

Apt. Number

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

City

State

Zip Code

 

 

Telephone Number

 

 

 

 

 

 

(

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(NOTE: You must be residing in the United States to submit this form.)

 

 

 

 

 

 

9. Mailing Address in the U.S. (if different than the address in Item Number 8)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

In Care Of (if applicable):

 

 

 

Telephone Number

 

 

 

 

 

(

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Street Number and Name

 

 

 

Apt. Number

 

City

State

Zip Code

10.

Sex

 

Male

Female

11.

Marital Status:

 

 

Single

 

 

Married

 

Divorced

 

 

Widowed

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

12.

Date of Birth (mm/dd/yyyy)

 

13.

City and Country of Birth

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

14.

Present Nationality (Citizenship)

15.

Nationality at Birth

 

16.

Race, Ethnic, or Tribal Group

17.

Religion

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

18.

Check the box, a through c, that applies:

a.

 

 

I have never been in Immigration Court proceedings.

 

 

 

 

 

 

b.

 

I am now in Immigration Court proceedings.

c.

 

 

I am not now in Immigration Court proceedings, but I have been in the past.

 

 

 

 

19.Complete 19 a through c.

a. When did you last leave your country? (mm/dd/yyyy)b. What is your current I-94 Number, if any?

c. List each entry into the U.S. beginning with your most recent entry. List date (mm/dd/yyyy), place, and your status for each entry.

(Attach additional sheets as needed.)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Date

Place

 

 

Status

Date Status Expires

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Date

Place

 

 

Status

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Date

Place

 

 

Status

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

20. What country issued your last passport or travel

21.

Passport Number

 

22. Expiration Date

document?

 

 

 

 

(mm/dd/yyyy)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Travel Document Number

 

 

 

 

23.What is your native language (include dialect, if applicable)? 24. Are you fluent in English? 25. What other languages do you speak fluently?

Yes No

Form I-589 Edition 01/20/25

Page 1 of 12

Part A.II. Information About Your Spouse and Children

 

For EOIR use only.

 

 

 

For

Action:

 

 

 

 

Decision:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

USCIS

Interview Date:

 

 

 

 

 

Approval Date:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

use only. Asylum Officer ID No.:

 

 

 

 

Denial Date:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Referral Date:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Your spouse

I am not married. (Skip to Your Children below.)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

1.

Alien Registration Number (A-Number)

 

2.

 

Passport/ID Card Number

3.

Date of Birth (mm/dd/yyyy)

4. U.S. Social Security Number

 

(if any)

 

 

 

 

(if any)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(if any)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

5.

Complete Last Name

 

 

 

6.

 

First Name

7.

Middle Name

 

8. Other names used (include

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

maiden name and aliases)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

9.

Date of Marriage (mm/dd/yyyy)

 

 

 

10.

Place of Marriage

 

 

11. City and Country of Birth

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

12. Nationality (Citizenship)

 

 

 

 

 

 

13. Race, Ethnic, or Tribal Group

14. Sex

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Male

 

Female

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

15.Is this person in the U.S.?

 

Yes (Complete Blocks 16 to 24.)

No (Specify location):

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

16.

Place of last entry into the

17.

Date of last entry into the

18. I-94 Number (if any)

19. Status when last admitted

 

 

U.S.

 

U.S.

(mm/dd/yyyy)

 

 

 

 

 

(Visa type, if any)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

20.

What is your spouse's

21.

What is the expiration date of his/her

22. Is your spouse in Immigration

23. If previously in the U.S., date of

 

 

current status?

 

authorized stay, if any? (mm/dd/yyyy)

 

Court proceedings?

previous arrival (mm/dd/yyyy)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Yes

 

No

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

24.If in the U.S., is your spouse to be included in this application? (Check the appropriate box.) Yes

No

Your Children. List all of your children, regardless of age, location, or marital status.

I do not have any children. (Skip to Part A.III., Information about your background.)

I have children. Total number of children:.

(NOTE: Use Form I-589 Supplement A or attach additional sheets of paper and documentation if you have more than four children.)

1. Alien Registration Number (A-Number)

2.

Passport/ID Card Number

 

3. Marital Status (Married, Single,

4.

 

U.S. Social Security Number

(if any)

 

 

(if any)

 

Divorced, Widowed)

 

(if any)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

5. Complete Last Name

 

6.

First Name

 

7. Middle Name

 

 

 

 

8.

 

Date of Birth (mm/dd/yyyy)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

9. City and Country of Birth

 

10. Nationality (Citizenship)

 

11. Race, Ethnic, or Tribal Group

12. Sex

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Male

 

Female

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

13. Is this child in the U.S. ?

 

 

Yes (Complete Blocks 14 to 21.)

 

No (Specify location):

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

14. Place of last entry into the U.S.

 

15. Date of last entry into the

 

16. I-94 Number (If any)

17. Status when last admitted

 

 

 

 

 

U.S. (mm/dd/yyyy)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(Visa type, if any)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

18. What is your child's current status?

 

 

19. What is the expiration

date of his/her

20. Is your child in

Immigration Court proceedings?

 

 

 

 

 

 

authorized stay, if any? (mm/dd/yyyy)

 

 

 

Yes

 

 

 

No

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

21. If in the U.S., is this child to be included in this application? (Check the appropriate box.)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Yes

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

No

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Form I-589 Edition 01/20/25

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Page 2 of 12
Click for USCIS I-589 File

File Breakdown

Fact Name Description
Purpose The I-589 form is used to apply for asylum in the United States, allowing individuals to seek protection from persecution.
Eligibility Individuals who fear persecution due to race, religion, nationality, political opinion, or membership in a particular social group may qualify.
Filing Deadline Applicants must file the I-589 form within one year of arriving in the U.S., although exceptions may apply.
Where to File The completed form should be submitted to the appropriate USCIS service center based on the applicant's location.
Interview Requirement After filing, applicants will typically have an interview with an asylum officer to discuss their claims.
Legal Representation While not required, having legal representation can significantly enhance an applicant's chances of a successful outcome.

Guide to Using USCIS I-589

After obtaining the USCIS I-589 form, you are ready to fill it out. This form is essential for those seeking asylum or withholding of removal in the United States. Follow these steps carefully to ensure accurate completion.

  1. Begin with the Part A section. Provide your personal information, including your name, address, and date of birth.
  2. In Part B, indicate your immigration status. Check the appropriate box that describes your current situation.
  3. Proceed to Part C. Here, you will need to answer questions about your family members. Include details about your spouse and children, if applicable.
  4. In Part D, describe your reasons for seeking asylum. Be specific about any past persecution or fear of future harm.
  5. Complete Part E by detailing any additional information that supports your claim. This may include incidents of violence or discrimination you faced.
  6. In Part F, list any countries you have traveled to since your birth. Include dates and reasons for travel.
  7. Move on to Part G. Here, you will need to provide information about any legal proceedings related to your immigration status.
  8. Finally, review the Part H section. Sign and date the form to certify that all information is true and complete.

Once you have completed the form, gather any necessary supporting documents. Ensure that everything is organized before submitting your application to USCIS.

Get Answers on USCIS I-589

What is the USCIS I-589 form?

The USCIS I-589 form is the application for asylum and for withholding of removal. It allows individuals who are in the United States and fear persecution in their home country to seek protection. This form is essential for those who wish to apply for asylum based on their experiences or fears of persecution due to race, religion, nationality, political opinion, or membership in a particular social group.

Who can file the I-589 form?

Any individual who is physically present in the United States and believes they have a credible fear of persecution can file the I-589 form. This includes:

  • Individuals who have experienced past persecution.
  • Those who have a well-founded fear of future persecution.
  • Individuals who are in removal proceedings and wish to apply for asylum.

What is the deadline for filing the I-589 form?

Generally, you must file the I-589 form within one year of your arrival in the United States. However, there are some exceptions to this rule. If you qualify for an exception, you may still be able to apply after the one-year deadline. It's important to provide a detailed explanation of any delays in your application.

What documents should be included with the I-589 form?

When submitting the I-589 form, it is crucial to include supporting documents. These may include:

  1. Evidence of your identity, such as a passport or birth certificate.
  2. Documentation that supports your claim of persecution, like personal statements or affidavits from witnesses.
  3. Country condition reports that provide context about the situation in your home country.

Make sure to provide copies of documents, not originals, as USCIS does not return submitted materials.

What happens after I submit the I-589 form?

After submitting the I-589 form, you will receive a receipt notice from USCIS. This notice confirms that your application is being processed. You may be scheduled for an interview, where you will have the opportunity to present your case. During this process, it’s essential to be prepared and provide any additional information requested by USCIS.

Common mistakes

Filling out the USCIS I-589 form can be a daunting task. Many individuals make common mistakes that can delay their application or even lead to a denial. Understanding these pitfalls can help applicants navigate the process more smoothly.

One frequent mistake is incomplete information. Applicants often leave sections blank or fail to provide necessary details. Each question is important, and missing information can raise red flags. It’s crucial to review the entire form and ensure every section is filled out completely.

Another common error is failing to sign the form. It might seem simple, but many forget to sign or date their application. A missing signature can result in the application being rejected outright. Always double-check that the form is signed before submission.

Some applicants also struggle with providing inconsistent information. Discrepancies between the I-589 form and other documents can lead to confusion and suspicion. It’s vital to ensure that all information matches across different forms and supporting documents.

Additionally, not submitting required supporting documents is a mistake that can hinder an application. The I-589 requires various pieces of evidence to support claims. Failing to include these documents can weaken the case. Make a checklist of all necessary documents and ensure they are submitted with the application.

Finally, many individuals underestimate the importance of keeping copies of everything. After submitting the I-589, it’s essential to have a record of what was sent. This can be invaluable if questions arise later or if any issues need to be addressed. Always keep a copy of the completed form and all supporting materials.

Documents used along the form

When applying for asylum in the United States using the USCIS I-589 form, several other documents may be necessary to support your application. Each of these documents plays a vital role in providing evidence and context for your case. Below is a list of commonly used forms and documents that accompany the I-589.

  • Personal Statement: This document outlines your reasons for seeking asylum. It should detail your experiences, fears, and any threats you face in your home country.
  • Country Conditions Report: This report provides information about the current political, social, and economic conditions in your home country. It helps to establish the context of your claims.
  • Affidavits from Witnesses: Statements from individuals who can support your claims can be very helpful. These affidavits should describe their knowledge of your situation and the threats you face.
  • Evidence of Persecution: This may include medical records, police reports, or any documentation that substantiates your claims of persecution or threats.
  • Identity Documents: Copies of your passport, birth certificate, and any other identification can help establish your identity and nationality.
  • Form G-28: If you have an attorney representing you, this form allows them to act on your behalf and receive updates about your case.

Gathering these documents can be crucial for a successful asylum application. Each piece of information helps paint a clearer picture of your situation and strengthens your case. Make sure to review all requirements thoroughly to ensure that your application is complete and compelling.

Similar forms

The USCIS I-589 form is primarily used for individuals seeking asylum in the United States. However, there are several other documents that share similarities with the I-589 in terms of purpose, structure, or the information required. Here are seven such documents:

  • I-131 Application for Travel Document: This form allows individuals to apply for a travel document, such as a refugee travel document or advance parole. Like the I-589, it requires personal information and details about the applicant's situation.
  • I-730 Refugee/Asylee Relative Petition: This document is used by individuals who have been granted asylum to bring family members to the U.S. It shares similarities with the I-589 in that it focuses on family reunification for those fleeing persecution.
  • I-485 Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status: After being granted asylum, individuals can use this form to apply for a green card. Both forms require detailed personal information and a demonstration of eligibility based on past circumstances.
  • I-864 Affidavit of Support: This document is often required when applying for a green card through family sponsorship. It ensures that the applicant will not become a public charge, similar to how the I-589 assesses the applicant’s need for protection and support.
  • I-600 Petition to Classify Orphan as an Immediate Relative: This form is used for adopting orphans from other countries. It includes personal information and background checks, akin to the information required on the I-589.
  • I-130 Petition for Alien Relative: This form allows U.S. citizens or permanent residents to sponsor family members. Both the I-130 and I-589 require details about the relationship and circumstances of the applicant.
  • I-821 Application for Temporary Protected Status (TPS): This form is for individuals from designated countries experiencing ongoing conflict or environmental disasters. Similar to the I-589, it focuses on providing protection to those unable to return safely to their home country.

Understanding these documents can help individuals navigate the complex immigration process more effectively. Each form plays a crucial role in ensuring that those seeking protection or status in the U.S. can present their cases appropriately.

Dos and Don'ts

When filling out the USCIS I-589 form, it is crucial to approach the process with care. Here are some important dos and don'ts to consider.

  • Do read the instructions carefully before starting.
  • Do provide accurate and truthful information.
  • Do sign and date the form where required.
  • Do keep a copy of the completed form for your records.
  • Do submit the form before the deadline.
  • Don't leave any sections blank unless instructed.
  • Don't use correction fluid or erase any mistakes.
  • Don't forget to include all required supporting documents.
  • Don't submit the form without reviewing it for errors.

By following these guidelines, you can help ensure a smoother application process. Take your time and seek assistance if needed.

Misconceptions

The USCIS I-589 form is used to apply for asylum in the United States. However, several misconceptions exist regarding this form and the process surrounding it. Below is a list of common misconceptions along with explanations to clarify the facts.

  • Asylum seekers must apply within one year of arrival. While it is true that there is a one-year deadline for most applicants, exceptions exist. Certain circumstances, such as changed conditions in the applicant's home country or extraordinary circumstances affecting the applicant, may allow for a late application.
  • Submitting the I-589 guarantees approval. The submission of the form does not guarantee that the application will be approved. Each application is evaluated based on the merits of the case and the evidence provided.
  • All asylum applications are processed quickly. Processing times can vary significantly. Some applications may take months or even years to be resolved, depending on the complexity of the case and the current backlog of applications.
  • Legal representation is not necessary for filing the I-589. While individuals can file the form without legal assistance, having an attorney or accredited representative can greatly enhance the chances of success. Legal experts can help navigate the complexities of the asylum process.
  • Only individuals with a strong case can apply. Anyone who fears persecution in their home country can apply, regardless of the strength of their case. However, the likelihood of approval may depend on the evidence and documentation provided.
  • Filing the I-589 will result in immediate work authorization. Applicants may not receive work authorization until their application has been pending for at least 150 days, and even then, it is contingent upon specific conditions being met.
  • Asylum seekers cannot travel outside the U.S. while their application is pending. Traveling outside the U.S. while an asylum application is pending can lead to abandonment of the application. It is advisable to consult legal counsel before making any travel plans.
  • Once granted asylum, individuals cannot lose their status. While asylum status provides protection, it can be revoked under certain circumstances, such as if the individual returns to their home country or if the original basis for asylum no longer exists.

Key takeaways

Filling out the USCIS I-589 form can be a crucial step for those seeking asylum in the United States. Here are some key takeaways to keep in mind:

  • Accuracy is Essential: Ensure all information provided is correct and complete. Inaccuracies can lead to delays or denial of your application.
  • Provide Detailed Information: When describing your fears of persecution, be as specific as possible. Include dates, names, and any relevant events to strengthen your case.
  • Gather Supporting Documents: Attach any evidence that supports your claim, such as personal statements, witness affidavits, or country condition reports.
  • File on Time: Submit your application within one year of arriving in the U.S. to avoid missing the deadline, unless you qualify for an exception.

Understanding these points can help streamline the process and enhance the chances of a successful asylum application.