Form I-589
Application for Asylum and Withholding of Removal
Apply for asylum, withholding of removal, and protection under the Convention Against Torture.
Filing fee
$100 (initial filing)
Processing time
6–72 months
Varies by service center
Online filing
Available
File via my.uscis.gov
Form edition
2024
Only the current edition is accepted
Who files Form I-589?
Anyone physically present in the U.S. who fears persecution in their home country based on race, religion, nationality, political opinion, or membership in a particular social group.
Where to file
USCIS asylum office (affirmative) or immigration court (defensive).
Always verify the current address or online filing option on the official USCIS Form I-589 page before sending — lockbox assignments change.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Missing the 1-year filing deadline from date of last entry
- Providing inconsistent details between the I-589 narrative and interview testimony
- Using the wrong form edition — asylum forms are updated often
- Not budgeting for the new $100 filing fee and the recurring Annual Asylum Fee added by the 2025 H.R. 1 law
Filing tips
- EAD eligibility opens 150 days after a complete I-589 filing
- Keep a copy of your complete filing — you'll need it for court and the interview
- Country conditions evidence (reports, news articles) strengthens most cases
Frequently asked questions
What is Form I-589?
Apply for asylum, withholding of removal, and protection under the Convention Against Torture.
Who files Form I-589?
Anyone physically present in the U.S. who fears persecution in their home country based on race, religion, nationality, political opinion, or membership in a particular social group.
How much is the Form I-589 filing fee?
The current filing fee is $100 (initial filing). Confirm the current amount on USCIS.gov before filing — fees changed most recently in the 2024 USCIS fee rule.
How long does Form I-589 take to process?
USCIS currently reports 6 months to 72 months for most cases. Processing times vary by service center and workload. Check the USCIS Case Processing Times tool for the latest estimates.
Can I file Form I-589 online?
Yes. Form I-589 can be filed online through a free USCIS account at my.uscis.gov. Online filing provides faster receipt notices and easier status tracking.
Related forms
Cost deep dive
Looking for a full cost breakdown including biometric fees, fee waivers, and payment methods? See the Form I-589 cost page.
Sources & Citations
All claims in this guide link to primary government sources.
- 1
- 2USCIS Case Processing Times— USCIS
- 3
Not legal advice. This page is a plain-English summary for educational use. Current fees, processing times, and filing locations are controlled by USCIS and may change without notice. For case-specific guidance, consult a licensed immigration attorney.