Get USCIS I-589 Form

Get USCIS I-589 Form

The USCIS I-589 form is a crucial document used by individuals seeking asylum or withholding of removal in the United States. This form allows applicants to detail their fears of persecution and request protection based on their experiences. If you believe you qualify, take the first step by filling out the form; click the button below to get started.

Structure

The USCIS I-589 form is a crucial document for individuals seeking asylum or withholding of removal in the United States. This form serves as a formal request for protection, allowing applicants to present their case to immigration officials. It requires detailed information about the applicant's background, including personal details, reasons for seeking asylum, and any past persecution or fear of future harm. Completing the I-589 accurately is essential, as it sets the stage for the applicant's legal journey and can significantly impact their chances of receiving asylum. Additionally, the form must be submitted within one year of arriving in the U.S., making timely action imperative. Understanding the nuances of the I-589 is vital for those navigating the complex immigration system, as it encompasses not only the applicant's narrative but also their legal rights and responsibilities. With the right guidance and preparation, individuals can effectively use this form to seek the protection they need and deserve.

USCIS I-589 Preview

 

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

Document Data

Fact Name Description
Purpose The USCIS I-589 form is used to apply for asylum in the United States, allowing individuals to seek protection from persecution in their home country.
Eligibility Individuals who have suffered persecution or have a well-founded fear of future persecution based on race, religion, nationality, membership in a particular social group, or political opinion may be eligible to apply using this form.
Filing Deadline Generally, applicants must file the I-589 form within one year of arriving in the United States, although there are exceptions for certain circumstances.
Interview Process After submitting the I-589 form, applicants typically attend an interview with an asylum officer or immigration judge to discuss their case and provide further evidence.
State-Specific Considerations While the I-589 is a federal form, state laws may impact the process. For instance, California law may offer additional protections for asylum seekers under the California Refugee Assistance Program.

How to Use USCIS I-589

After gathering the necessary information, you are ready to fill out the USCIS I-589 form. This form is essential for individuals seeking asylum in the United States. Completing it accurately is crucial for your application to be considered. Below are the steps to guide you through the process.

  1. Begin by downloading the latest version of the I-589 form from the USCIS website.
  2. Read the instructions carefully to ensure you understand the requirements.
  3. Fill out your personal information in Part A, including your name, address, and date of birth.
  4. Provide information about your family members in Part B, including their names and relationships to you.
  5. In Part C, describe your reasons for seeking asylum. Be specific about your experiences and fears.
  6. Complete Part D by detailing any previous applications for asylum or other immigration benefits.
  7. In Part E, list any criminal history, if applicable. Honesty is important here.
  8. Review the form for any errors or missing information before signing and dating it in Part F.
  9. Gather any supporting documents that may strengthen your application, such as personal statements, witness letters, or country condition reports.
  10. Make a copy of your completed form and all documents for your records.
  11. Submit the form and supporting documents to the appropriate USCIS address, as indicated in the instructions.

After submission, you will receive a receipt confirming that your application is in process. It's important to keep track of any correspondence from USCIS and to prepare for any interviews or additional requests for information that may arise.

Key Facts about USCIS I-589

What is the USCIS I-589 form?

The USCIS I-589 form is an application for asylum in the United States. It allows individuals who are afraid of persecution in their home country to seek protection and remain in the U.S. It is crucial for those who qualify to submit this form to initiate the asylum process.

Who can apply using the I-589 form?

Individuals who have experienced persecution or have a well-founded fear of future persecution due to race, religion, nationality, political opinion, or membership in a particular social group can apply. This includes both individuals and their family members who are in the U.S.

When should I submit the I-589 form?

The I-589 form should be submitted within one year of your arrival in the United States, unless you qualify for an exception. Timely submission is essential to ensure eligibility for asylum.

What documents do I need to submit with the I-589 form?

Along with the I-589 form, you should include any supporting documents that demonstrate your fear of persecution. This may include personal statements, witness statements, country condition reports, and any relevant evidence that supports your claim.

Can I include my family members in my I-589 application?

Yes, you can include your spouse and children on your I-589 application. They must be included at the time of filing to receive asylum benefits. If they are not included initially, they may need to file their own applications later.

What happens after I submit the I-589 form?

After submission, USCIS will schedule an interview with you to discuss your application. During this interview, you will have the opportunity to explain your situation in detail. It is important to prepare thoroughly for this meeting.

How long does it take to process the I-589 form?

The processing time for the I-589 form can vary significantly based on individual circumstances and the caseload of the USCIS office. Generally, it may take several months to over a year for a decision to be made.

Can I work while my I-589 application is pending?

Yes, you may be eligible for work authorization while your I-589 application is pending. You can apply for an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) if your application has been pending for at least 150 days without a decision.

What if my I-589 application is denied?

If your application is denied, you may have options to appeal the decision or seek other forms of relief. It is important to consult with an immigration attorney or a qualified representative to explore your options.

Where can I find more information about the I-589 form?

For more detailed information, you can visit the USCIS website or contact an immigration attorney. These resources can provide guidance and support throughout the application process.

Common mistakes

Filling out the USCIS I-589 form, which is used for applying for asylum in the United States, can be a daunting task. Many applicants make common mistakes that can hinder their chances of a successful application. Understanding these pitfalls is crucial for anyone seeking asylum.

One frequent mistake is failing to provide complete information. Each section of the form requires thorough and accurate details. Incomplete answers can lead to delays or even denials. It is essential to review each question carefully and ensure that all relevant information is included.

Another common error involves not being consistent in the narrative. The personal statement is a critical part of the application. Inconsistencies between the form and the narrative can raise red flags for the reviewing officer. It is important to maintain a coherent story throughout the application, ensuring that dates, events, and details align.

Many applicants also overlook the importance of timeliness. Submitting the I-589 form within the one-year deadline is crucial. Failing to meet this deadline can result in the loss of eligibility for asylum. It is advisable to keep track of important dates and submit the application as early as possible.

Another mistake is not seeking legal assistance. While individuals can fill out the form on their own, consulting with an immigration attorney or a qualified legal representative can provide invaluable guidance. They can help clarify complex questions and ensure that the application is as strong as possible.

Additionally, some applicants may neglect to include supporting documents. Evidence that supports the asylum claim is vital. This can include police reports, medical records, or witness statements. Failing to include these documents can weaken the application significantly.

Lastly, a common error is not double-checking for errors before submission. Simple mistakes, such as typos or incorrect information, can have serious consequences. It is wise to review the form multiple times and, if possible, have someone else look it over as well.

By being aware of these mistakes, applicants can approach the I-589 form with greater confidence. Careful preparation and attention to detail can make a significant difference in the asylum application process.

Documents used along the form

The USCIS I-589 form, also known as the Application for Asylum and for Withholding of Removal, is a critical document for individuals seeking asylum in the United States. It is often accompanied by several other forms and documents that support the application process. Below is a list of additional forms and documents commonly used alongside the I-589 form, each serving a specific purpose in the asylum application process.

  • Form I-765: This is the Application for Employment Authorization. Asylum seekers may file this form to request the right to work in the United States while their asylum application is pending.
  • Form I-131: Known as the Application for Travel Document, this form allows asylum applicants to request permission to travel outside the U.S. while their application is being processed. It is important to note that traveling outside the U.S. may affect the asylum claim.
  • Personal Statement: A personal statement is a detailed narrative provided by the applicant. It explains the reasons for seeking asylum, including any past persecution or fear of future persecution in their home country.
  • Supporting Evidence: This includes documents such as police reports, medical records, or witness statements that substantiate the claims made in the I-589 form. Providing credible evidence is essential for strengthening the asylum application.
  • Country Conditions Evidence: This document provides information about the political, social, and human rights conditions in the applicant's home country. It can include reports from government agencies, non-governmental organizations, and news articles.
  • Form G-28: This is the Notice of Entry of Appearance as Attorney or Accredited Representative. If the applicant is represented by an attorney or accredited representative, this form must be submitted to notify USCIS of their representation.

Each of these documents plays a vital role in the asylum application process. Properly completing and submitting them can significantly impact the outcome of the I-589 application. Careful attention to detail and thorough preparation are essential for individuals navigating this complex process.

Similar forms

The USCIS I-589 form, used for applying for asylum, has similarities with several other immigration-related documents. Here’s a breakdown of those documents:

  • I-130 Petition for Alien Relative: This form is used by U.S. citizens or lawful permanent residents to sponsor a relative for immigration. Like the I-589, it requires personal information and details about the relationship.
  • I-485 Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status: This form allows individuals to apply for a green card. It shares the need for extensive personal information and documentation to support the application.
  • I-765 Application for Employment Authorization: This form is used to request permission to work in the U.S. It is similar in that it often accompanies asylum applications, allowing applicants to work while their cases are pending.
  • I-131 Application for Travel Document: This form allows individuals to apply for a re-entry permit or refugee travel document. Like the I-589, it addresses the individual's status and circumstances in the U.S.
  • I-94 Arrival/Departure Record: This document is issued to foreign visitors and provides proof of their legal entry into the U.S. It is essential for asylum seekers to establish their arrival date, just like the I-589 requires proof of eligibility.
  • N-400 Application for Naturalization: This form is for lawful permanent residents seeking U.S. citizenship. Both forms require detailed biographical information and evidence of good moral character.
  • Form I-918 Petition for U Nonimmigrant Status: This form is for victims of certain crimes who assist law enforcement. Similar to the I-589, it focuses on the applicant's experiences and the need for protection under U.S. law.

Dos and Don'ts

When filling out the USCIS I-589 form, it is important to follow specific guidelines to ensure accuracy and compliance. Below is a list of things you should and shouldn't do during this process.

  • Do read the instructions carefully before starting the form.
  • Do provide complete and accurate information to avoid delays.
  • Do sign and date the form where required.
  • Do keep a copy of the completed form for your records.
  • Do seek assistance if you have questions or need clarification.
  • Don't leave any sections blank unless instructed to do so.
  • Don't submit the form without reviewing it for errors.
  • Don't use abbreviations or slang in your responses.
  • Don't forget to include any required supporting documents.

Misconceptions

The USCIS I-589 form is an important document for individuals seeking asylum in the United States. However, several misconceptions surround this form that can lead to confusion. Below are some common misunderstandings:

  • Misconception 1: The I-589 form must be filed within one year of arrival in the U.S.
  • This is true for most applicants; however, there are exceptions. Individuals who can demonstrate changed circumstances or extraordinary circumstances may still file after the one-year deadline.

  • Misconception 2: Only individuals who are physically in the U.S. can apply for asylum.
  • While the application is submitted in the U.S., individuals can also apply for asylum through a U.S. embassy or consulate if they are outside the country.

  • Misconception 3: The I-589 form guarantees asylum.
  • Submitting the form does not guarantee approval. Each case is evaluated on its own merits, and a thorough review process is conducted.

  • Misconception 4: Legal representation is not necessary for filing the I-589.
  • While it is possible to file without an attorney, having legal representation can greatly enhance the chances of success by ensuring that the application is complete and well-prepared.

  • Misconception 5: You cannot include family members on your application.
  • In fact, applicants can include qualifying family members, such as spouses and children, on the I-589 form, which can strengthen the application.

  • Misconception 6: Asylum seekers cannot work while their application is pending.
  • Asylum seekers may apply for a work permit after their application has been pending for 150 days, provided no delays are caused by the applicant.

  • Misconception 7: The I-589 form is only for those fleeing persecution based on political beliefs.
  • The form is applicable to individuals fleeing persecution based on race, religion, nationality, membership in a particular social group, or political opinion.

  • Misconception 8: Once you file the I-589, you cannot leave the U.S.
  • While it is generally advisable to stay in the U.S. during the application process, there are circumstances under which an applicant may leave and still maintain their application.

Understanding these misconceptions can help individuals navigate the asylum process more effectively. It is crucial to approach this journey with accurate information and support.

Key takeaways

Filling out the USCIS I-589 form is a critical step for individuals seeking asylum in the United States. Here are key takeaways to consider:

  • Ensure you complete the form accurately and honestly. Inaccurate information can lead to delays or denials.
  • Provide detailed information about your fear of persecution. Clearly explain why you are seeking asylum.
  • Submit the form within one year of arriving in the U.S. There are exceptions, but timely submission is crucial.
  • Gather supporting documents that reinforce your claim. This may include personal statements, news articles, or witness affidavits.
  • Be prepared for an interview. USCIS may schedule an interview to further assess your eligibility for asylum.
  • Keep copies of all documents submitted. This will help you track your application status and provide reference if needed.
  • Consider legal assistance. An immigration attorney can provide guidance and help strengthen your case.
  • Stay informed about your case status. Regularly check for updates and respond promptly to any requests from USCIS.