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
No fee
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
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 No fee. 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.
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- 2USCIS Case Processing Times— USCIS
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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.