USCIS I-589 PDF Template

The USCIS I-589 form is a vital document used when individuals seek asylum in the United States or wish to withhold removal from the country. This form allows applicants to outline their fear of persecution in their home countries and provides a pathway for legal protection. If you're ready to begin this crucial process, click the button below to learn how to fill out the form.

Overview

The USCIS I-589 form serves as a critical tool for individuals seeking asylum in the United States, capturing vital information regarding the applicant's personal background, fears of persecution, and justifications for claiming refugee status. This form is typically submitted by those who have fled their home countries due to threats of persecution based on race, religion, nationality, political opinion, or membership in a particular social group. Alongside demographic details, the I-589 requires applicants to provide a detailed account of the events that prompted their application, offering an opportunity to articulate their specific circumstances and experiences. Additional components of the form include questions regarding the applicant's family members and any prior immigration applications, ensuring a comprehensive evaluation of their case. Upon submission, the I-589 becomes central to the asylum adjudication process, playing a pivotal role in determining eligibility and facilitating the assessment of the applicant’s claims. Understanding every aspect of the I-589 form is essential for anyone navigating the complex landscape of asylum applications in the U.S.

USCIS I-589 Preview

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):				Telephone Number
				(	)

Street Number and Name				Apt. Number

City

State

Zip Code

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:

I have never been in Immigration Court proceedings.

I am now in Immigration Court proceedings.

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

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)

Passport/ID Card Number

Date of Birth (mm/dd/yyyy)

U.S. Social Security Number

(if any)

Complete Last Name

First Name

Middle Name

Other names used (include

maiden name and aliases)

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. Gender

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.

(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

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.)

Alien Registration Number (A-Number)

Passport/ID Card Number

3. Marital Status (Married, Single,

U.S. Social Security Number

(if any)

Divorced, Widowed)

(if any)

Complete Last Name

First Name

7. Middle Name

Date of Birth (mm/dd/yyyy)

City and Country of Birth

10. Nationality (Citizenship)

11. Race, Ethnic, or Tribal Group

12. Gender

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

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 03/01/23

Page 2

Part A.II. Information About Your Spouse and Children (Continued)

Alien Registration Number (A-Number)

Passport/ID Card Number

3. Marital Status (Married, Single,

U.S. Social Security Number

(if any)

Divorced, Widowed)

(if any)

Complete Last Name

First Name

7. Middle Name

Date of Birth (mm/dd/yyyy)

City and Country of Birth

10. Nationality (Citizenship)

11. Race, Ethnic, or Tribal Group

12. Gender

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

21.If in the U.S., is this child to be included in this application? (Check the appropriate box.) Yes

	No

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. Gender
								Male	Female
								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
						Yes		No

21.If in the U.S., is this child to be included in this application? (Check the appropriate box.) Yes

Alien Registration Number (A-Number)

Passport/ID Card Number

3. Marital Status (Married, Single,

U.S. Social Security Number

(if any)

Divorced, Widowed)

(if any)

Complete Last Name

First Name

7. Middle Name

Date of Birth (mm/dd/yyyy)

City and Country of Birth

10. Nationality (Citizenship)

11. Race, Ethnic, or Tribal Group

12. Gender

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

21.If in the U.S., is this child to be included in this application? (Check the appropriate box.) Yes

Form I-589 Edition 03/01/23

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.)

Number and Street

City/Town

Department, Province, or State

Country

Dates

From (Mo/Yr) To (Mo/Yr)

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

From (Mo/Yr) To (Mo/Yr)

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

Dates

From (Mo/Yr) To (Mo/Yr)

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
Mother		Deceased

Father		Deceased
Father		Deceased

Sibling		Deceased
Sibling		Deceased

Sibling		Deceased
Sibling		Deceased

Sibling		Deceased
Sibling		Deceased

Sibling		Deceased
Sibling		Deceased


Form I-589 Edition 03/01/23		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

Religion

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?

Yes

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?

Yes

If "Yes," explain in detail:

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.

Form I-589 Edition 03/01/23

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)?

Yes

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?

Yes

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?

Yes

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?

Yes

If "Yes," explain why you are afraid and describe the nature of torture you fear, by whom, and why it would be inflicted.

Form I-589 Edition 03/01/23

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?

Yes

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?

Yes

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?

Yes

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?

Yes

If "Yes," describe in detail each such incident and your own, your spouse's, or your child(ren)'s involvement.

Form I-589 Edition 03/01/23

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?

Yes

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?

Yes

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)?

Yes

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.

Form I-589 Edition 03/01/23

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)
No	Yes (If "Yes,"complete Part E.)
No	Yes

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:

Street Number and Name

(

)

Apt. Number

City

State

Zip Code

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).

Form I-589 Edition 03/01/23

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:

		Date (mm/dd/yyyy)
Signature of Applicant		Date (mm/dd/yyyy)

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.

I swear (affirm) that I know the contents of this application that I am signing, including the attached documents and supplements, that they are

	Signed and sworn to before me by the above named applicant on:

Signature of Applicant		Date (mm/dd/yyyy)

Write Your Name in Your Native Alphabet		Signature of Immigration Judge

Form I-589 Edition 03/01/23

Page 10

↓ USCIS I-589

File Properties

Fact Name	Description
Purpose	The I-589 form is used to apply for asylum or withholding of removal in the United States.
Eligibility	Individuals who fear persecution in their home country due to race, religion, nationality, political opinion, or membership in a particular social group can apply.
Filing Location	Completed forms should be submitted to the appropriate USCIS service center based on the applicant's location.
Deadline	Applicants must file the I-589 within one year of arriving in the U.S., unless they qualify for an exception.

Instructions on Utilizing USCIS I-589

Filling out the USCIS I-589 form is a crucial step for individuals seeking asylum in the United States. Completing the form accurately is important for the application process. Follow these steps to ensure that the form is filled out correctly.

Begin by downloading the latest version of the I-589 form from the USCIS website.
Read the instructions provided with the form carefully before starting to fill it out.
Provide your full name in the designated section. Include any other names you have used.
Fill in your contact information, including your address, email, and phone number.
Complete the biographical information section. This includes details like your date of birth, place of birth, and nationality.
Answer the questions regarding your entry into the United States. Be honest and precise.
In the section about your family, list the names, relationships, and dates of birth of family members who are in the U.S. or in your home country.
Detail your reasons for seeking asylum in the appropriate section. Explain your situation clearly.
Provide any additional information, such as your immigration history or prior applications.
Review the entire form for accuracy and completeness. Make sure all fields are filled out.
Sign and date the application at the end of the form, ensuring to follow any specified instructions regarding signatures.
Make a copy of the completed form and all supporting documents for your own records.
Submit the form and any required documents as indicated in the instructions.

Important Facts about USCIS I-589

What is the I-589 form used for?

The I-589 form, also known as the Application for Asylum and for Withholding of Removal, is used by individuals in the United States to apply for asylum protection. Asylum seekers can use this form to demonstrate that they meet the criteria for asylum under U.S. law, providing a pathway to remain in the country due to a well-founded fear of persecution in their home country.

Who is eligible to file the I-589 form?

Eligibility for filing the I-589 form typically includes individuals who have suffered persecution or have a genuine fear of persecution due to their race, religion, nationality, political opinion, or membership in a particular social group. It is essential for applicants to file this form within one year of their arrival in the U.S., although there are some exceptions for this rule.

Where should I submit my I-589 form?

The I-589 form must be submitted to the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). Applicants can file the form online or mail it to the appropriate address, depending on their circumstances. The specific submission address may vary based on where the applicant is located. It is crucial to verify the current submission guidelines on the USCIS website before sending in the application.

What supporting documents should accompany the I-589 form?

Along with the I-589 form, applicants should submit evidence supporting their claims of persecution or fear of persecution. This can include personal statements, documentation such as news articles, medical reports, or affidavits from witnesses. Providing as much relevant information as possible increases the chances of a successful application.

What happens after I submit my I-589 form?

After submitting the I-589 form, applicants will receive a receipt notice from USCIS. This notice confirms that the application has been received. Following that, a USCIS officer will review the application, and the applicant may be scheduled for an interview or receive further instructions. Timely responses to any requests for additional information are crucial throughout this process.

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

The processing time for the I-589 form can vary significantly based on multiple factors, including the applicant's location and case complexity. Generally, processing times can range from several months to a few years. USCIS updates processing times regularly, and applicants can check the current estimates online. Patience is often necessary, as delays can occur.

Can I appeal if my I-589 form is denied?

Yes, if the I-589 form is denied, applicants have the option to appeal the decision. Usually, the appeal must be filed with the Board of Immigration Appeals (BIA) within a specific timeframe, often within 30 days of the denial notice. It is advisable to seek legal assistance when filing an appeal to understand the process better and improve the chances of a favorable outcome.

Common mistakes

The USCIS I-589 form, used for applying for asylum in the United States, is a critical document in the immigration process. Many applicants make common mistakes when filling out this form. Recognizing these errors can significantly improve the chances of a successful application.

One frequent mistake is providing insufficient personal information. Applicants often fail to include all required details, such as their full name, date of birth, and country of origin. Incomplete information may lead to delays or even denials. It is essential to verify that all personal data is accurately stated.

Another error involves ignoring the requirement for a thorough statement of the claim. Many applicants submit vague or general descriptions of their experiences without clearly explaining the reasons for seeking asylum. A detailed narrative that outlines specific incidents of persecution is crucial for building a strong case.

Applicants sometimes neglect to list all family members in their application. Failing to include spouses or children can complicate the process, as each family member requires a separate application. It is vital to ensure that all eligible family members are properly listed to avoid unnecessary complications.

Some individuals make the mistake of not adhering to the deadlines stipulated by USCIS. Applicants must file the I-589 form within one year of arriving in the United States unless specific exceptions apply. Missing this deadline can result in disqualification from asylum benefits.

Inaccurate or inconsistent information across different sections of the form is another common issue. For instance, discrepancies between personal details provided in the I-589 and those in supporting documents can raise red flags during the review process. It is important to cross-check all entries for consistency.

Failing to sign and date the application can also lead to rejection. All applicants must ensure they have properly signed the I-589 before submission. An unsigned form is considered incomplete, which will delay processing and may harm the applicant's credibility.

Some applicants do not seek legal assistance when needed. Navigating the asylum application process can be complex. Legal advisors can provide guidance, ensuring that forms are completed correctly and all necessary documentation is included.

The inclusion of irrelevant or excessive materials can clutter the application. Applicants should focus on submitting information that directly supports their asylum claims. Extraneous details may detract from the main argument and confuse the reviewing officers.

Lastly, procrastination is a significant mistake applicants often make. Rushing to complete the form at the last minute can lead to errors and omissions. Taking the time to carefully complete the I-589 form is essential for a well-supported asylum application.

Documents used along the form

When applying for asylum in the United States, you’ll often need more than just the USCIS I-589 form. Various other documents complement this application and help support your case. Below is a list of commonly used forms and documents that can strengthen your asylum application.

I-765 Application for Employment Authorization: This form allows asylum seekers to request permission to work legally in the U.S. after they have filed their I-589.
I-131 Application for Travel Document: Used by individuals wanting to re-enter the U.S. after travel abroad while their asylum application is pending.
Affidavits: Written statements from people who can support your story. These can include family, friends, or experts who know about your situation.
Country Condition Reports: Documentation that provides information on the current state of conditions in your home country, showcasing why you fear persecution.
Personal Statement: A detailed account from you about why you are seeking asylum. This helps convey your fears and experiences.
Evidence of Persecution: Any documents, pictures, or reports that show evidence of the threats or harm you've faced.
Proof of Identity: Documents like passports or national ID cards that prove who you are and that you are a citizen of the country from which you are seeking asylum.
Medical Records: If you suffered physical or mental harm, medical documentation can validate your experiences and fears.
Criminal Records: If applicable, any documents related to past interactions with law enforcement can be essential for your case.

Each of these documents plays a crucial role in supporting your I-589 application. Make sure to gather and submit all necessary paperwork to maximize your chances of a successful asylum claim. Good luck as you navigate this process!

Similar forms

The USCIS I-589 form is used for individuals seeking asylum in the United States. Several other immigration-related documents share similarities with it in terms of purpose and process. Below are four such documents, each outlined with specific comparisons.

Form I-730, Refugee/Asylee Relative Petition: This form allows individuals who have been granted asylum to request admission for their qualifying family members. Similar to the I-589, it focuses on family reunification, emphasizing the importance of familial ties in the asylum process.
Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status: While the I-589 is primarily for seeking asylum, the I-485 serves individuals who wish to adjust their immigration status after receiving asylum status. Both documents deal with significant steps in the immigration journey, aiming to provide protection and stability.
Form I-131, Application for Travel Document: The I-131 is used by individuals who have been granted asylum to request permission to travel outside the United States and re-enter. It is similar to the I-589 in that it represents a continuation of the asylum seeker’s rights and benefits within U.S. immigration law.
Form I-821, Application for Temporary Protected Status (TPS): The TPS application is for individuals from designated countries experiencing conflict or natural disasters. This document, like the I-589, provides a mechanism for people in vulnerable situations to seek refuge and protection from being returned to unsafe conditions.

Dos and Don'ts

When filling out the USCIS I-589 form, there are several important considerations to keep in mind. Here’s a guide on what you should and shouldn't do:

Do: Carefully read the instructions provided with the form.
Do: Provide accurate and complete information to avoid delays in processing.
Do: Sign and date the form appropriately.
Do: Keep a copy of your completed form for your records.
Do: Ensure that you submit the form before the deadline.

Don't: Leave any questions blank; instead, write "N/A" if a question does not apply to you.
Don't: Use correction fluid or erase information. If you make a mistake, draw a line through it and write the correct information next to it.
Don't: Submit the form without double-checking your answers for errors.
Don't: Ignore required documents that need to accompany your application.
Don't: Wait until the last minute to submit your application, as processing can take time.

Misconceptions

I-589 is only for asylum seekers. This is a common misconception. The I-589 form is used for both asylum and withholding of removal applications, as well as for protection under the Convention Against Torture.
Only refugees can apply using I-589. In fact, I-589 is available to individuals who fear persecution in their home country, regardless of their refugee status. This includes those who may be facing threats due to race, religion, nationality, or political opinion.
Filing I-589 guarantees a successful outcome. A submission of form I-589 does not guarantee asylum or any other type of protection. Approval depends on the merits of the individual case and the evidence presented.
I-589 can be filed at any time. While there is no strict deadline for filing, applicants must typically submit the I-589 form within one year of arriving in the U.S., unless they meet certain exceptions.
All evidence must be submitted with the initial application. Though it is beneficial to include as much evidence as possible, applicants may be allowed to submit additional evidence later in the process, particularly during the interview or hearing stage.
Waiting for a decision means you are safe. Filing an I-589 does not automatically protect the individual from deportation. Until a decision is made, applicants should remain aware of their immigration status.
Legal representation is not necessary. While individuals can represent themselves, having legal assistance can help ensure that the application is thorough and that the applicant understands the process, which can significantly improve their chances of approval.
You cannot change your application once submitted. Applicants can request to amend their application or address any mistakes or new developments after submission, although it is advisable to do so as soon as possible.

Key takeaways

Here are ten important points to keep in mind when filling out and using the USCIS I-589 form:

Purpose of the Form: The I-589 form is used to apply for asylum in the United States. It can also be used to apply for withholding of removal and protection under the Convention Against Torture.
Deadline: Submit the I-589 form within one year of arriving in the U.S., unless you qualify for an exception.
Filling the Form: Provide accurate and detailed personal information including your name, address, and date of birth. Ensure that all sections are filled out completely.
Supporting Documents: Include supporting evidence with your application. This might include personal statements, country condition reports, and any relevant documents that support your claim.
Signature Requirement: Don’t forget to sign the form. An unsigned form will be rejected, delaying your application.
Fee Waiver: There is no filing fee for the I-589 form. However, you can request a fee waiver for other forms in the process if applicable.
Interviews: After submission, you may be scheduled for an interview with an asylum officer. Be prepared to discuss your case in detail.
Check Application Status: You can check your application status online using your receipt number. Keeping track of your application is crucial.
Legal Assistance: Consider seeking legal assistance. Navigating the asylum process can be complex, and having professional help may be beneficial.
Keep Copies: Always keep copies of your completed I-589 form and all supporting documents for your records. This information can be vital in future proceedings.

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