All Forms

I-589

Humanitarian / Asylum

Application for Asylum and for Withholding of Removal

Filing Fee

$100 (currently stayed by court order)

Processing Time

6 months–5+ years (varies significantly by office and court backlog)

Overview

Filed by individuals physically present in the U.S. who seek asylum because they have suffered persecution or fear persecution due to race, religion, nationality, political opinion, or membership in a particular social group.

Required Documents
  • Completed I-589 with detailed declaration
  • Passport and travel documents
  • Evidence of persecution (reports, photos, medical records)
  • Country condition reports (State Dept, Human Rights Watch, etc.)
  • Affidavits from witnesses
  • Identity documents (birth certificate, national ID)
Common Issues
  • Must file within 1 year of arrival (with limited exceptions)
  • Insufficient evidence of persecution
  • Inconsistencies between written declaration and interview testimony
  • Failure to demonstrate nexus to a protected ground
  • Credibility concerns during asylum interview

Tips

The 1-year filing deadline is critical. Gather strong country condition evidence and prepare a detailed, consistent personal declaration.

Related Forms
I-765I-131

Have Questions?

Ask our AI assistant about I-589 — processing times, required documents, case status, and more.