The USCIS I-589 form is a crucial application for individuals seeking asylum in the United States. This form allows applicants to express a well-founded fear of persecution in their home country. If you're considering applying for asylum, take the first step by filling out the I-589 form.
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The USCIS I-589 form, officially known as the Application for Asylum and for Withholding of Removal, serves a crucial role for individuals seeking protection in the United States. This form is especially significant for those who fear persecution in their home countries based on race, religion, nationality, political opinion, or membership in a particular social group. Completing the I-589 initiates the process for claiming asylum or obtaining withholding of removal, both of which can provide safe refuge. It is important for applicants to provide detailed personal information, including their background and reasons for seeking asylum. The form also requires supporting documentation, which helps establish the legitimacy of the claims being made. Additionally, the I-589 must be filed within one year of arrival in the U.S., making timing a critical factor in the application process. Individuals can submit the form regardless of their current immigration status, but understanding the eligibility criteria and accompanying requirements is essential to navigating this complex procedure.
Department of Homeland Security
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services
U.S. Department of Justice
Executive Office for Immigration Review
I-589, Application for Asylum and for Withholding of Removal
START HERE - Type or print in black ink. See the instructions for information about eligibility and how to complete and file this application. There is no filing fee for 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):
10.
Gender:
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
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
For EOIR use only.
For
Action:
Decision:
USCIS
Interview Date:
Approval Date:
use only.
Asylum Officer ID No.:
Denial Date:
Referral Date:
Form I-589 Edition 03/01/23
Page 1
Part A.II. Information About Your Spouse and Children
Your spouse
I am not married. (Skip to Your Children below.)
Alien Registration Number (A-Number)
2.
Passport/ID Card Number
3.
U.S. Social Security Number
(if any)
5.
6.
First Name
7.
Middle Name
8.
Other names used (include
maiden name and aliases)
9.
Date of Marriage (mm/dd/yyyy)
Place of Marriage
11. City and Country of Birth
12. Nationality (Citizenship)
13. Race, Ethnic, or Tribal Group
14. Gender
15.Is this person in the U.S.?
Yes (Complete Blocks 16 to 24.)
No (Specify location):
Place of last entry into the
Date of last entry into the
18. I-94 Number (if any)
19. Status when last admitted
U.S.
(Visa type, if any)
20.
What is your spouse's
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)
24.If in the U.S., is your spouse to be included in this application? (Check the appropriate box.) Yes
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.)
3. Marital Status (Married, Single,
Divorced, Widowed)
7. Middle Name
10. Nationality (Citizenship)
11. Race, Ethnic, or Tribal Group
12. Gender
Is this child in the U.S. ?
Yes (Complete Blocks 14 to 21.)
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)
What is your child's current status?
19. What is the expiration
date of his/her
20. Is your child in
Immigration Court proceedings?
21. If in the U.S., is this child to be included in this application? (Check the appropriate box.)
Yes No
Page 2
Part A.II. Information About Your Spouse and Children (Continued)
13. Is this child in the U.S. ?
14. Place of last entry into the U.S.
18. What is your child's current status?
21.If in the U.S., is this child to be included in this application? (Check the appropriate box.) Yes
Marital Status (Married, Single,
13.Is this child in the U.S. ? Yes (Complete Blocks 14 to 21.) No (Specify location):
20. Is your child in Immigration Court proceedings?
Page 3
Part A.III. Information About Your Background
1.List your last address where you lived before coming to the United States. If this is not the country where you fear persecution, also list the last address in the country where you fear persecution. (List Address, City/Town, Department, Province, or State and Country.)
(NOTE: Use Form I-589 Supplement B, or additional sheets of paper, if necessary.)
Number and Street
(Provide if available)
City/Town
Department, Province, or State
Country
Dates
From (Mo/Yr) To (Mo/Yr)
2.Provide the following information about your residences during the past 5 years. List your present address first. (NOTE: Use Form I-589 Supplement B, or additional sheets of paper, if necessary.)
3.Provide the following information about your education, beginning with the most recent school that you attended. (NOTE: Use Form I-589 Supplement B, or additional sheets of paper, if necessary.)
Name of School
Type of School
Location (Address)
Attended
4.Provide the following information about your employment during the past 5 years. List your present employment first. (NOTE: Use Form I-589 Supplement B, or additional sheets of paper, if necessary.)
Name and Address of Employer
Your Occupation
5.Provide the following information about your parents and siblings (brothers and sisters). Check the box if the person is deceased. (NOTE: Use Form I-589 Supplement B, or additional sheets of paper, if necessary.)
Full Name
City/Town and Country of Birth
Current Location
Mother
Deceased
Father
Sibling
Page 4
Part B. Information About Your Application
(NOTE: Use Form I-589 Supplement B, or attach additional sheets of paper as needed to complete your responses to the questions contained in Part B.)
When answering the following questions about your asylum or other protection claim (withholding of removal under 241(b)(3) of the INA or withholding of removal under the Convention Against Torture), you must provide a detailed and specific account of the basis of your claim to asylum or other protection. To the best of your ability, provide specific dates, places, and descriptions about each event or action described. You must attach documents evidencing the general conditions in the country from which you are seeking asylum or other protection and the specific facts on which you are relying to support your claim. If this documentation is unavailable or you are not providing this documentation with your application, explain why in your responses to the following questions.
Refer to Instructions, Part 1: Filing Instructions, Section II, "Basis of Eligibility," Parts A - D, Section V, Completing the Form," Part B, and Section VII, "Additional Evidence That You Should Submit," for more information on completing this section of the form.
1.Why are you applying for asylum or withholding of removal under section 241(b)(3) of the INA, or for withholding of removal under the Convention Against Torture? Check the appropriate box(es) below and then provide detailed answers to questions A and B below.
I am seeking asylum or withholding of removal based on:
Race
Nationality
Political opinion
Membership in a particular social group Torture Convention
A.Have you, your family, or close friends or colleagues ever experienced harm or mistreatment or threats in the past by anyone?
If "Yes," explain in detail:
1.What happened;
2.When the harm or mistreatment or threats occurred;
3.Who caused the harm or mistreatment or threats; and
4.Why you believe the harm or mistreatment or threats occurred.
B.Do you fear harm or mistreatment if you return to your home country?
1.What harm or mistreatment you fear;
2.Who you believe would harm or mistreat you; and
3.Why you believe you would or could be harmed or mistreated.
Page 5
Part B. Information About Your Application (Continued)
2.Have you or your family members ever been accused, charged, arrested, detained, interrogated, convicted and sentenced, or imprisoned in any country other than the United States (including for an immigration law violation)?
If "Yes," explain the circumstances and reasons for the action.
3.A. Have you or your family members ever belonged to or been associated with any organizations or groups in your home country, such as, but not limited to, a political party, student group, labor union, religious organization, military or paramilitary group, civil patrol, guerrilla organization, ethnic group, human rights group, or the press or media?
If "Yes," describe for each person the level of participation, any leadership or other positions held, and the length of time you or your family members were involved in each organization or activity.
3.B. Do you or your family members continue to participate in any way in these organizations or groups?
If "Yes," describe for each person your or your family members' current level of participation, any leadership or other positions currently held, and the length of time you or your family members have been involved in each organization or group.
4.Are you afraid of being subjected to torture in your home country or any other country to which you may be returned?
If "Yes," explain why you are afraid and describe the nature of torture you fear, by whom, and why it would be inflicted.
Page 6
Part C. Additional Information About Your Application
(NOTE: Use Form I-589 Supplement B, or attach additional sheets of paper as needed to complete your responses to the questions contained in Part C.)
1.Have you, your spouse, your child(ren), your parents or your siblings ever applied to the U.S. Government for refugee status, asylum, or withholding of removal?
If "Yes," explain the decision and what happened to any status you, your spouse, your child(ren), your parents, or your siblings received as a result of that decision. Indicate whether or not you were included in a parent or spouse's application. If so, include your parent or spouse's A-number in your response. If you have been denied asylum by an immigration judge or the Board of Immigration Appeals, describe any change(s) in conditions in your country or your own personal circumstances since the date of the denial that may affect your eligibility for asylum.
2.A. After leaving the country from which you are claiming asylum, did you or your spouse or child(ren) who are now in the United States travel through or reside in any other country before entering the United States?
2.B. Have you, your spouse, your child(ren), or other family members, such as your parents or siblings, ever applied for or received any lawful status in any country other than the one from which you are now claiming asylum?
If "Yes" to either or both questions (2A and/or 2B), provide for each person the following: the name of each country and the length of stay, the person's status while there, the reasons for leaving, whether or not the person is entitled to return for lawful residence purposes, and whether the person applied for refugee status or for asylum while there, and if not, why he or she did not do so.
3.Have you, your spouse or your child(ren) ever ordered, incited, assisted or otherwise participated in causing harm or suffering to any person because of his or her race, religion, nationality, membership in a particular social group or belief in a particular political opinion?
If "Yes," describe in detail each such incident and your own, your spouse's, or your child(ren)'s involvement.
Page 7
Part C. Additional Information About Your Application (Continued)
4.After you left the country where you were harmed or fear harm, did you return to that country?
If "Yes," describe in detail the circumstances of your visit(s) (for example, the date(s) of the trip(s), the purpose(s) of the trip(s), and the length of time you remained in that country for the visit(s).)
5.Are you filing this application more than 1 year after your last arrival in the United States?
If "Yes," explain why you did not file within the first year after you arrived. You must be prepared to explain at your interview or hearing why you did not file your asylum application within the first year after you arrived. For guidance in answering this question, see Instructions, Part 1: Filing Instructions, Section V. "Completing the Form," Part C.
6.Have you or any member of your family included in the application ever committed any crime and/or been arrested, charged, convicted, or sentenced for any crimes in the United States (including for an immigration law violation)?
If "Yes," for each instance, specify in your response: what occurred and the circumstances, dates, length of sentence received, location, the duration of the detention or imprisonment, reason(s) for the detention or conviction, any formal charges that were lodged against you or your relatives included in your application, and the reason(s) for release. Attach documents referring to these incidents, if they are available, or an explanation of why documents are not available.
Page 8
Part D. Your Signature
I certify, under penalty of perjury under the laws of the United States of America, that this application and the evidence submitted with it are all true and correct. Title 18, United States Code, Section 1546(a), provides in part: Whoever knowingly makes under oath, or as permitted under penalty of perjury under Section 1746 of Title 28, United States Code, knowingly subscribes as true, any false statement with respect to a material fact in any application, affidavit, or other document required by the immigration laws or regulations prescribed thereunder, or knowingly presents any such application, affidavit, or other document containing any such false statement or which fails to contain any reasonable basis in law or fact - shall be fined in accordance with this title or imprisoned for up to 25 years. I certify that I am physically present in the United States or seeking admission at a Port of Entry when I execute this application. I authorize the release of any information from my immigration record that U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) needs to determine eligibility for the benefit I am seeking.
WARNING: Applicants who are in the United States unlawfully are subject to removal if their asylum or withholding claims are not granted by an asylum officer or an immigration judge. Any information provided in completing this application may be used as a basis for the institution of, or as evidence in, removal proceedings even if the application is later withdrawn. Applicants determined to have knowingly made a frivolous application for asylum will be permanently ineligible for any benefits under the Immigration and Nationality Act. You may not avoid a frivolous finding simply because someone advised you to provide false information in your asylum application. If filing with USCIS, unexcused failure to appear for an appointment to provide biometrics (such as fingerprints) and your biographical information within the time allowed may result in an asylum officer dismissing your asylum application or referring it to an immigration judge. Failure without good cause to provide DHS with biometrics or other biographical information while in removal proceedings may result in your application being found abandoned by the immigration judge. See sections 208(d)(5)(A) and 208(d)(6) of the INA and 8 CFR sections 208.10, 1208.10, 208.20, 1003.47(d) and 1208.20.
Print your complete name.
Write your name in your native alphabet.
Did your spouse, parent, or child(ren) assist you in completing this application?
Yes (If "Yes," list the name and relationship.)
(Name)(Relationship)
Did someone other than your spouse, parent, or child(ren) prepare this application?
Asylum applicants may be represented by counsel. Have you been provided with a list of persons who may be available to assist you, at little or no cost, with your asylum claim?
Signature of Applicant (The person in Part. A.I.)
[
]
Sign your name so it all appears within the brackets
(Name)
(Relationship)
Yes (If "Yes,"complete Part E.)
Date (mm/dd/yyyy)
Part E. Declaration of Person Preparing Form, if Other Than Applicant, Spouse, Parent, or Child
I declare that I have prepared this application at the request of the person named in Part D, that the responses provided are based on all information of which I have knowledge, or which was provided to me by the applicant, and that the completed application was read to the applicant in his or her native language or a language he or she understands for verification before he or she signed the application in my presence. I am aware that the knowing placement of false information on the Form I-589 may also subject me to civil penalties under 8 U.S.C. 1324c and/or criminal penalties under 18 U.S.C. 1546(a).
Signature of Preparer
Print Complete Name of Preparer
Daytime Telephone Number
Address of Preparer:
To be completed by an
Select this box if
Attorney State Bar Number (if
Attorney or Accredited Representative
Form G-28 is
applicable)
USCIS Online Account Number (if any)
attorney or accredited
attached.
representative (if any).
Page 9
Part F. To Be Completed at Asylum Interview, if Applicable
NOTE: You will be asked to complete this part when you appear for examination before an asylum officer of the Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).
I swear (affirm) that I know the contents of this application that I am signing, including the attached documents and supplements, that they are
all true or not all true to the best of my knowledge and that correction(s) numbered to were made by me or at my request. Furthermore, I am aware that if I am determined to have knowingly made a frivolous application for asylum I will be permanently ineligible for any benefits under the Immigration and Nationality Act, and that I may not avoid a frivolous finding simply because someone advised me to provide false information in my asylum application.
Signed and sworn to before me by the above named applicant on:
Signature of Applicant
Write Your Name in Your Native Alphabet
Signature of Asylum Officer
Part G. To Be Completed at Removal Hearing, if Applicable
NOTE: You will be asked to complete this Part when you appear before an immigration judge of the U.S. Department of Justice, Executive Office for Immigration Review (EOIR), for a hearing.
Signature of Immigration Judge
Page 10
Completing the USCIS I-589 form is a significant step in the process of seeking asylum in the United States. Ensuring accurate submission of this form is crucial as it sets the stage for your case. Below are the steps to assist you in filling it out effectively.
Once you have submitted your I-589, it's important to stay informed about the progress of your application. You may receive a notice from USCIS that will outline your next steps or request further information. Keep an eye on any correspondence you receive and be prepared to respond as needed.
What is the USCIS I-589 form?
The USCIS I-589 form is officially known as the Application for Asylum and for Withholding of Removal. Individuals use this form to apply for asylum in the United States. Asylum is granted to those who have suffered persecution or have a well-founded fear of persecution due to their race, religion, nationality, political opinion, or membership in a particular social group. The form also allows applicants to request withholding of removal, which protects those facing removal from the U.S. if they can demonstrate that they would face harm in their home country.
Who is eligible to apply using the I-589 form?
Eligibility for the I-589 form spans a range of factors. Generally, individuals who are in the U.S. and fear returning to their home country due to past persecution or a well-founded fear of future persecution may apply. To qualify, you must file within one year of your arrival in the U.S., with some exceptions. These exceptions can include changed circumstances in your home country or extraordinary circumstances affecting your application.
What documents do I need to submit with my I-589 application?
When submitting the I-589 form, you'll need to include several key documents. These documents may include:
Remember that strong supporting documents can significantly strengthen your application.
How long does the I-589 application process take?
The processing time for the I-589 form can vary significantly. Factors influencing this timeline include the caseload at the asylum office and the complexity of your case. Typically, you may expect to wait several months up to a year or more for a decision. After submitting your application, you will receive a receipt notice. It is advisable to remain patient and prepared for a potential interview or additional requests for information.
What happens after I submit my I-589 application?
After submitting your I-589 application, you will receive a receipt notice that confirms USCIS has received your application. Following this, you may be scheduled for an interview where you will have the opportunity to explain your need for asylum. It is important to prepare for this interview. You may also receive a notice if more evidence or information is needed before a decision is made. If asylum is granted, you can stay in the U.S. and may eventually apply for permanent residency.
When filling out the USCIS I-589 form, many applicants make mistakes that could delay their applications or even lead to denial. One common error is providing insufficient personal information. It's crucial to offer complete details, including names, addresses, and dates. Missing information can create confusion and raise red flags for immigration officers.
Another frequent mistake involves incorrect dates. Applicants may forget to double-check the accuracy of their answers regarding when they arrived in the United States or specific events. Mismatched dates can complicate a case and might suggest that the applicant is not entirely truthful.
Failure to provide detailed accounts of persecution or fear is also an issue. The narrative section is vital, allowing individuals to explain their experiences. If someone is vague or does not provide enough context, it may hinder their chances of receiving asylum.
Many applicants overlook the importance of supporting documentation. Attachments, such as affidavits or articles relevant to the case, can significantly bolster an application. Not including pertinent documents might leave an application unconvincing.
Forgetting to sign and date the application is a simple yet common error. This form requires the applicant's signature under penalty of perjury. Without it, the application can be considered incomplete, leading to delays.
Some people make the mistake of not maintaining consistency across their forms and interviews. Any discrepancies between what is written on the I-589 and statements made later could raise doubts about an applicant's credibility.
Applicants sometimes fail to check the filing location. Each jurisdiction may have different offices where the form must be submitted. Sending the application to the wrong place can result in unnecessary processing delays.
Another mistake is neglecting to keep copies of submitted forms. Having a record can be beneficial if questions arise later or if there is a need to follow up with USCIS. Applicants should always keep copies of important documents.
Some individuals wait too long to submit their applications. The I-589 form has specific deadlines, especially for those who have been in the U.S. for less than a year. It’s essential to be aware of these timelines to avoid losing the right to seek asylum.
Finally, applicants may underestimate the value of legal advice. Consulting with an immigration attorney or accredited representative can help navigate the complexities of the process, and prevent mistakes that could jeopardize an application.
The USCIS I-589 form is the application for asylum and for withholding of removal. When submitting this form, there are several other documents that are often necessary. These documents support the application and can strengthen the case. Below is a list of essential forms and documents that applicants typically need to include along with the I-589 form.
Gathering these documents will help in the application process and can make a significant difference in the outcome of your asylum claim. Ensure that all documents are organized and clearly labeled to facilitate a smoother review process.
When filling out the USCIS I-589 form, it is important to follow certain guidelines to ensure your application is completed correctly.
Here are four things you should do:
There are also things to avoid when filling out the form:
The USCIS I-589 form is an important document used to apply for asylum or withholding of removal in the United States. However, there are several misconceptions surrounding its purpose and process. Here is a list of seven common misunderstandings about the I-589 form:
Understanding these points can help individuals navigate the asylum process more effectively. Clarity about the I-589 form promotes informed decisions and encourages positive outcomes.
The USCIS I-589 form is crucial for individuals seeking asylum in the United States. It is important to understand the key aspects of this form to ensure proper completion and effective use.
Filling out the I-589 form is an important step in seeking asylum. Taking the time to complete it thoroughly and accurately can have a significant impact on the outcome of your application.
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