Homepage Free USCIS I-589 Template
Jump Links

The USCIS I-589 form is a crucial document for individuals seeking asylum in the United States. This form serves as the official request for asylum and protection from persecution based on race, religion, nationality, membership in a particular social group, or political opinion. It is essential for applicants to provide detailed personal information, including their background, reasons for seeking asylum, and any evidence supporting their claims. The form also requires applicants to disclose their immigration history, which helps USCIS assess their eligibility. Additionally, timely submission is vital, as there are strict deadlines for filing the I-589. Applicants must also be prepared to attend an interview where they will discuss their case in depth. Understanding the I-589 form and its requirements can significantly impact the outcome of an asylum application, making it important for applicants to approach the process with care and attention to detail.

Key takeaways

  • Understand the Purpose: The I-589 form is used to apply for asylum in the United States. It is essential to grasp its purpose before filling it out.
  • Complete All Sections: Ensure that every section of the form is filled out completely. Incomplete forms may lead to delays or denials.
  • Provide Detailed Information: When describing your fear of persecution, provide as much detail as possible. Specific examples strengthen your case.
  • Include Supporting Documents: Attach any relevant documents that support your claim, such as personal statements, reports, or evidence of persecution.
  • Be Honest: Honesty is crucial. Any discrepancies or false information can negatively impact your application.
  • File on Time: Submit the I-589 form within one year of arriving in the U.S. Late applications may be rejected unless you qualify for an exception.
  • Seek Assistance if Needed: If you find the process overwhelming, consider seeking help from an immigration attorney or a qualified nonprofit organization.

Dos and Don'ts

When filling out the USCIS I-589 form, it is crucial to follow specific guidelines to ensure accuracy and completeness. Below are eight important dos and don'ts to keep in mind.

  • Do read the instructions carefully before starting the form.
  • Do provide accurate and truthful information throughout the application.
  • Do use black ink and write legibly to avoid misunderstandings.
  • Do double-check your responses for any errors or omissions.
  • Don't leave any required fields blank; if a question does not apply, indicate that clearly.
  • Don't rush through the form; take your time to ensure all information is correct.
  • Don't submit the form without making a copy for your records.
  • Don't forget to sign and date the form before submission.

By adhering to these guidelines, you can help facilitate a smoother application process.

Documents used along the form

The USCIS I-589 form is an application for asylum and withholding of removal. When submitting this form, applicants often need to include additional documents to support their case. Below is a list of other forms and documents that may be required or helpful in conjunction with the I-589 form.

  • Form I-765: This is the application for employment authorization. If an individual applies for asylum, they may also seek permission to work in the U.S. while their application is pending.
  • Form I-94: This is the arrival/departure record issued to non-citizens entering the United States. It provides evidence of the applicant's immigration status and entry into the country.
  • Personal Statement: A detailed account of the applicant's experiences and reasons for seeking asylum. This narrative should explain the fear of persecution in their home country.
  • Quitclaim Deed: To facilitate the transfer of property ownership, refer to the comprehensive Quitclaim Deed form instructions for a smooth transaction.
  • Country Condition Reports: These are documents that provide information about the political, social, and economic conditions in the applicant's home country. They help establish the context for the asylum claim.
  • Supporting Affidavits: Statements from witnesses or experts that corroborate the applicant's claims. These can strengthen the case by providing additional perspectives on the situation.
  • Medical Records: If applicable, these documents can provide evidence of physical or psychological harm suffered by the applicant due to persecution. They can be critical in demonstrating the impact of their experiences.
  • Police Reports: Documentation of any threats, attacks, or incidents reported to law enforcement can serve as evidence of persecution. These records can support the applicant's claims of fear for their safety.

Including these documents with the I-589 form can enhance an applicant's chances of a successful outcome. Each piece of evidence plays a crucial role in building a comprehensive case for asylum. Proper preparation and thorough documentation are essential in navigating the asylum process effectively.

Things to Know About This Form

What is the USCIS I-589 form?

The USCIS I-589 form, also known as the Application for Asylum and for Withholding of Removal, is a critical document used by individuals seeking asylum in the United States. This form allows applicants to present their case for protection based on past persecution or a well-founded fear of future persecution due to factors such as race, religion, nationality, membership in a particular social group, or political opinion. Completing the I-589 form accurately is essential for a successful application process.

Who can file the I-589 form?

Any individual who is physically present in the United States and meets the criteria for asylum can file the I-589 form. This includes:

  • People who have experienced persecution in their home country.
  • Individuals who fear persecution if they return to their home country.
  • Those who are not in removal proceedings, as well as those who are.

It is important to note that there are deadlines for filing. Generally, applicants must submit the form within one year of their arrival in the U.S., although there are some exceptions.

What information is required on the I-589 form?

The I-589 form requires detailed information about the applicant, including:

  1. Personal identification details, such as name, address, and date of birth.
  2. Information about family members who may also be applying for asylum.
  3. A thorough account of the reasons for seeking asylum, including specific incidents of persecution or threats faced.
  4. Any relevant evidence or documentation that supports the asylum claim.

Completing the form with accurate and comprehensive information is crucial, as it forms the basis of the asylum application.

How is the I-589 form submitted?

The I-589 form can be submitted in two primary ways: by mail or online. For those choosing to mail the form, it should be sent to the appropriate USCIS service center based on the applicant's location. Online submissions are also available through the USCIS website, providing a more streamlined process. Regardless of the submission method, it is advisable to keep a copy of the completed form and any supporting documents for personal records.

What happens after submitting the I-589 form?

After submission, the applicant will receive a receipt notice from USCIS confirming that the I-589 form has been filed. Following this, the applicant may be scheduled for an interview, where they will have the opportunity to present their case for asylum. It is crucial to prepare for this interview, as it plays a significant role in the decision-making process. Additionally, applicants may receive updates or requests for further information from USCIS, which should be addressed promptly to avoid delays in the case.

Preview - 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:

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

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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

 

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.)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

1.

Alien Registration Number (A-Number)

2.

 

Passport/ID Card Number

3.

Date of Birth (mm/dd/yyyy)

4.

U.S. Social Security Number

 

(if any)

 

 

(if any)

 

 

 

 

 

 

(if any)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

5.

Complete Last Name

 

6.

 

First Name

7.

Middle Name

 

8.

Other names used (include

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

maiden name and aliases)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

9.

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.

 

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

 

No

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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

No

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.)

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

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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)

 

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

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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 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

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Father

 

 

 

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?

No

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?

No

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)?

No

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?

No

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?

No

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?

No

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?

No

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?

No

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?

No

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?

No

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?

No

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?

No

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)?

No

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?

No

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

 

 

 

 

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

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

 

Date (mm/dd/yyyy)

 

 

 

Write Your Name in Your Native Alphabet

 

Signature of Immigration Judge

Form I-589 Edition 03/01/23

Page 10

Document Specifics

Fact Name Description
Purpose The I-589 form is used to apply for asylum in the United States. It allows individuals to seek protection from persecution in their home country.
Eligibility To be eligible, applicants must demonstrate a well-founded fear of persecution based on race, religion, nationality, membership in a particular social group, or political opinion.
Filing Deadline Applicants must file the I-589 form within one year of arriving in the U.S., although there are some exceptions to this rule.
Interview Process After submitting the form, applicants typically undergo an interview with an asylum officer or an immigration judge to discuss their case.
State-Specific Considerations While the I-589 is a federal form, state laws regarding the treatment of asylum seekers can vary. Always check local regulations that may affect your case.

How to Fill Out USCIS I-589

After gathering all necessary documents, you are ready to complete the USCIS I-589 form. This form is crucial for those seeking asylum or withholding of removal in the United States. Ensure you have all required information at hand, as accuracy is vital for a successful application.

  1. Obtain the latest version of the I-589 form from the USCIS website.
  2. Read the instructions carefully before starting to fill out the form.
  3. Begin with Part A: Write your name, address, and contact information accurately.
  4. Complete Part B: Provide details about your nationality and any other countries you hold citizenship in.
  5. Fill out Part C: Answer questions about your family members, including their names and relationships to you.
  6. In Part D, describe your reasons for seeking asylum. Be specific and detailed.
  7. Proceed to Part E: List any previous immigration applications or petitions you have submitted.
  8. Complete Part F: Answer questions regarding your criminal history, if applicable.
  9. In Part G, provide information about your travel history, including dates and locations.
  10. Review the entire form for accuracy and completeness before signing.
  11. Attach any supporting documents, such as evidence of persecution or fear of harm.
  12. Make a copy of the completed form and all attachments for your records.
  13. Submit the form to the appropriate USCIS address as specified in the instructions.

Once you submit the form, you will receive a receipt notice from USCIS. This notice confirms that your application is being processed. Be prepared to attend an interview and provide additional information if requested.