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Blank USCIS I-589 Form

The USCIS I-589 form is the Application for Asylum and for Withholding of Removal. It serves as a crucial legal document for individuals seeking protection in the United States due to persecution or fear of persecution in their home country. Knowing how to properly complete and submit this form can significantly impact your chances of obtaining asylum.

Contents

The USCIS I-589 form is a critical tool for individuals who seek asylum or withholding of removal in the United States. This application allows people to express their fear of returning to their home countries due to persecution related to race, religion, nationality, political opinion, or membership in a specific social group. Completing this form is an essential step in the asylum process, enabling applicants to share their personal experiences and the reasons for their request for protection. The form consists of various sections that collect detailed information about the applicant's identity, background, and the basis of their asylum claim. Additionally, it serves to gather information about family members who may also seek asylum or need protection. Timeliness is crucial—applicants must generally submit the I-589 within one year of arriving in the U.S. Properly filling out the I-589 is vital, as it can significantly influence the outcome of the asylum request and ultimately determine the refugee's future safety and stability. Understanding the form's requirements and the importance of each section can empower individuals in this life-altering process, making it essential for them to approach it with care and attention to detail.

Sample - USCIS I-589 Form

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

Click for PDF

Form Information

Fact Name	Description
Purpose	The I-589 form is used to apply for asylum in the United States and for withholding of removal.
Eligibility	Individuals who fear persecution in their home country may apply using the I-589 form.
Submission Timeframe	The I-589 must generally be filed within one year of arriving in the U.S., with some exceptions.
Governing Law	This form is governed by U.S. immigration law, specifically the Immigration and Nationality Act.
Required Documents	Applicants must attach supporting documents, such as a declaration and evidence substantiating their claims.
Filing Fee	There is no filing fee for submitting the I-589 form, which makes it accessible for many applicants.
Interview Process	After submission, applicants typically undergo an interview with an asylum officer or an immigration judge.
Legal Assistance	While not required, many applicants benefit from legal assistance to complete the form and prepare for the process.

Detailed Guide for Filling Out USCIS I-589

After gathering all relevant information, filling out the USCIS I-589 form requires careful attention to detail. This form is crucial for individuals seeking asylum in the United States. Ensuring accuracy and completeness is essential in this process, as any mistakes or omissions can lead to delays or denials. Below are the steps to fill out the form correctly:

Start with the top section of the form. Provide your full name, as it appears on your identification documents.
Enter your residence address. Make sure to include the apartment number if applicable.
Fill in your mailing address if it differs from your residence address.
Indicate your date of birth, along with your place of birth.
Provide your country of citizenship and any other citizenships you may have.
Check the appropriate box regarding your immigration status prior to applying.
Answer questions regarding your family. This includes details about your spouse and children, if applicable.
When describing your reason for seeking asylum, ensure that all pertinent details are included. This is critical for your case.
Sign and date the form. Make sure your signature is present; unsigned forms will be rejected.
Gather necessary supporting documents. This can include identification documents, evidence of your claims, and any additional information relevant to your application.
Review your completed form for accuracy, ensuring all sections are filled out completely.
Submit the form to the appropriate USCIS address, as indicated in the instructions.

Once your application is submitted, you will receive a notification. Be prepared to provide additional information or attend interviews as requested by USCIS.

Obtain Answers on USCIS I-589

What is the purpose of the USCIS I-589 form?
The USCIS I-589 form, officially known as the Application for Asylum and for Withholding of Removal, is used by individuals in the United States to apply for asylum. This form is crucial for people seeking protection from persecution or fear of persecution based on their race, religion, nationality, political opinion, or membership in a particular social group.
Who is eligible to file the I-589 form?
Any individual who is physically present in the United States and fears returning to their home country due to persecution may be eligible to submit the I-589 form. It is important to note that there is a one-year filing deadline for asylum applications, though there are some exceptions to this rule.
How do I complete the I-589 form?
Completing the I-589 form involves detailed personal information, including your biographical details, the basis of your asylum claim, and information about any family members included in your application. It is essential to provide accurate information and to clearly explain why you believe you qualify for asylum.
What documents should I submit with my I-589 application?
Supporting documents are vital for the success of your application. You should include any evidence that supports your claim, such as personal statements, witness statements, medical records, police reports, or news articles about the conditions in your home country. It is also helpful to attach identification documents, such as passports or birth certificates.
Where should I submit my I-589 form?
The submission location depends on whether you are in removal proceedings. If you are not in removal proceedings, send your completed application to the correct USCIS service center designated for your state. If you are in removal proceedings, you will need to submit your application to the immigration court instead.
What happens after I submit the I-589 form?
After submission, USCIS will review your application. You may be called for an interview with an asylum officer, where you will discuss your claim in detail. Alternatively, if you are in removal proceedings, an immigration judge will handle your case. You will receive a decision after the relevant review or hearing process.
Can I apply for my family members using the I-589?
You can include your spouse and children under the age of 21 in your I-589 application. However, it is vital that you include their information accurately on your form and provide any necessary supporting documents to validate their relationship to you.
What if my I-589 application is denied?
If your application for asylum is denied, you have several options. You may appeal the decision to the Board of Immigration Appeals (BIA) if you are still within the timeline for doing so. Alternatively, if you are in removal proceedings, you can argue your case before an immigration judge. It’s advisable to seek legal assistance to understand your options thoroughly.

Common mistakes

Filling out the USCIS I-589 form can be challenging, and mistakes are common. One frequent error is not providing enough detail in the sections that ask for personal information. It’s vital to accurately fill in your name, date of birth, and other identifying information. Omitting or misspelling any details can delay processing times significantly.

Another common mistake is failing to check for consistency. Inconsistencies among the various sections of the form can lead to confusion. For instance, if your name is written differently in one place than another, it may raise questions. Always double-check to ensure that all personal information matches throughout the document.

Some applicants overlook the importance of including supporting documents. When you submit the I-589, you need to attach any evidence that supports your request for asylum. Not providing these documents can weaken your case or result in a denial.

People also often make errors with their signatures. It’s essential to ensure that both you and any co-applicants sign the application properly. A missing signature can cause significant delays as the USCIS will need to contact you for a correction.

Time management can be a factor as well. Out of haste or procrastination, some individuals fail to submit their applications on time. Make sure to be aware of deadlines for filing your I-589. Even slight delays can have serious consequences for your asylum request.

Additionally, applicants sometimes fail to provide accurate descriptions of the persecution they fear. When detailing your experiences, be specific and honest. Vague statements can undermine your credibility and weaken your application.

Not keeping a copy of your completed form is another mistake. Always make a copy before submitting your I-589. This will help you remember what you provided and can be useful for any future hearings or inquiries.

Many applicants forget to follow the instructions for where to send the form. It's important to send the application to the correct address based on your location and current immigration status. Sending it to the wrong office can cause delays.

Responding to any USCIS requests in a timely manner is crucial. After you submit your form, the agency may ask for additional information. Missing deadlines for these requests can jeopardize your application.

Finally, some individuals underestimate the seriousness of the application process. It’s essential to approach your I-589 submission with thorough attention. Mistakes can hinder your efforts and impact your future in the United States.

Documents used along the form

The USCIS I-589 form, officially known as the Application for Asylum and for Withholding of Removal, is an essential document for individuals seeking refuge in the United States. However, it is not the only form that may be necessary in the application process. Below is a list of several other forms and documents that applicants often use alongside the I-589 to strengthen their case and support their claims for asylum.

Form I-765: This is the Application for Employment Authorization. If someone has filed the I-589, they may also want to apply for a work permit. Completing this form allows asylum seekers to work in the U.S. while their asylum application is pending.
Form I-131: This is the Application for Travel Document. It is used by asylum applicants who wish to travel outside the U.S. during the processing of their asylum claim. A travel document helps ensure that they can return to the U.S. without jeopardizing their status.
Personal Statement: Alongside their application, applicants often include a detailed personal statement. This narrative outlines the circumstances that led to their asylum claim and provides a compelling context for their request.
Country Condition Reports: These documents provide context about the situation in the applicant's home country. They may include reports from human rights organizations or government entities that discuss violence, persecution, or other dangers faced by individuals from that country.
Supporting Affidavits: Friends, family, or colleagues can provide affidavits that detail their understanding of the applicant's experiences. These sworn statements can bolster the credibility of the individual's claims and provide additional evidence of persecution.

Similar forms

Form I-130: This form is used for family-based immigration petitions. Like the I-589, it involves providing personal information and supporting documentation to establish a relationship.
Form I-140: This is an employment-based immigration petition. Similar to the I-589, it requires proof of eligibility and supporting materials for review by USCIS.
Form I-765: This form applies for work authorization. While the I-589 focuses on asylum, both forms require biographical data and evidence to support claims.
Form I-881: Known as the Suspension of Deportation application, this form is used by individuals facing removal. Like the I-589, it seeks protection from removal based on specific circumstances.
Form N-400: The Application for Naturalization is used when applying for citizenship. Similar to the I-589, applicants need to provide personal information and demonstrate eligibility.
Form I-589A: This is a companion form for the I-589, specifically for applying for withholding of removal. Both forms address protection under U.S. law based on fear of return to one's home country.
Form I-918: The Petition for U Nonimmigrant Status is for victims of certain crimes. It too asks for personal narratives and supporting evidence to establish the individual's situation.
Form I-730: This is used to petition for derivative asylum benefits for family members. Like the I-589, it involves proving a family connection and the need for protection.
Form I-131: This application for a travel document is similar in that it can be used for those seeking protection who may need to travel outside the U.S. It requires a rationale and supporting information.
Form I-485: The Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status allows individuals to apply for a green card. This entails submitting a variety of personal, legal, and supporting documents, similar to the I-589 process.

Dos and Don'ts

When filling out the USCIS I-589 form, it is important to be careful and precise. Consider the following dos and don'ts:

Do read all instructions carefully before starting the form.
Do provide accurate and complete information to the best of your ability.
Do use black ink and write legibly if filling out a paper form.
Do keep a copy of the filled-out form for your records.
Don't leave any required sections blank; if it does not apply, write "N/A."
Don't submit false information, as this can harm your case.

Taking care in this process can greatly improve your chances of a favorable outcome. Be thorough and honest, and remember that support is available if needed.

Misconceptions

The USCIS I-589 form is crucial for those seeking asylum in the United States. However, numerous misconceptions surround this important document. Below is a list of ten common misunderstandings, along with clarifications.

Only refugees can apply using the I-589. Many believe that only individuals already classified as refugees can use this form. In reality, anyone who fears persecution in their home country can apply, regardless of their current status.
The I-589 form must be filed within one year of arrival. While it's true that there is a one-year filing deadline for most asylum applicants, certain exceptions exist. This includes individuals who face changed circumstances in their home country.
All I-589 applications are granted. Some assume that submitting the I-589 guarantees asylum. The approval rate varies significantly based on individual circumstances, evidence provided, and the credibility of the claim.
Legal representation is not necessary. Many believe they can successfully navigate the process without legal help. While it’s possible to apply independently, legal guidance can significantly improve the chances of a successful application.
Filing the I-589 leads to immediate work authorization. It's a common misconception that submitting this form automatically allows applicants to work in the U.S. Work authorization is contingent upon meeting additional criteria and waiting periods.
Asylum applications affect family members' immigration status. Some fear that applying for asylum will negatively impact family members who are not applying. In fact, family members can usually benefit from the application if they are included as dependents or derivatives during the process.
All I-589 applicants are interviewed in person. Many assume that an in-person interview is mandatory. However, factors like the case's specifics and the applicant’s history can result in alternative procedures.
Supporting evidence is optional. There is a misconception that providing evidence to support an asylum claim is not essential. In truth, strong evidence is critical to substantiate the claims made in the I-589 form.
The I-589 is just a simple form to fill out. Some think the I-589 is straightforward and easy to complete. On the contrary, it requires careful attention to detail and understanding of personal circumstances.
If denied, an applicant cannot try again. Individuals often believe that a denial permanently bars them from future asylum claims. However, they may reapply if they have new evidence or a different basis for asylum.

Understanding these misconceptions is essential for anyone considering applying for asylum in the United States. Missteps can lead to significant setbacks in the process, so accurate information is crucial.

Key takeaways

When navigating the USCIS I-589 form, it is crucial to understand several important aspects to ensure a smooth application process for asylum or withholding of removal. Here are some key takeaways to keep in mind:

Completeness Matters: Make sure to fill out all sections of the form. Incomplete forms can lead to delays or denial.
Provide Detailed Information: When explaining your fear of persecution, include specific details and examples to strengthen your case. The more context you provide, the better your application will be understood.
Submit Within the Deadline: Ensure your application is submitted within one year of your arrival in the U.S., unless you meet specific exceptions. Late submissions may jeopardize your eligibility.
Sign and Date the Form: This might seem trivial, but remember to include your signature and date on the form. An unsigned form will not be processed.
Keep Copies: Before submitting your application, make copies of everything you send. Having your own records can be helpful for future reference or in case of any issues.

Understanding these points can significantly enhance your experience with the I-589 form process. Take your time, be thorough, and don't hesitate to reach out for assistance if needed.

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