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Form I-589, Application for Asylum and for Withholding of Removal, is used by individuals in the United States who seek asylum due to persecution or a well-founded fear of persecution in their home country. This persecution must be based on race, religion, nationality, political opinion, or membership in a particular social group.

Purpose of the I-589 Asylum Application

The primary goal of the asylum application is to allow individuals to remain in the U.S. legally and avoid being returned to a country where they may face harm. If granted asylum, the applicant may also:

• Apply for a work permit (Employment Authorization Document - EAD)
• Petition to bring immediate family members to the U.S.
• Apply for a Green Card (permanent residency) after one year.

Process of application:

1. Filing the Application:
   1. Submit Form I-589 within one year of arriving in the U.S. (unless eligible for an exception).
   2. No filing fee is required.
2. Receipt Notice & Biometrics Appointment:
   1. USCIS sends a receipt notice confirming the application was received.
   2. The applicant will be scheduled for a biometric services appointment for finger prints and background checks.
3. Interview or Immigration Court Hearing:
   1. If the applicant is not in removal proceedings, USCIS will schedule an asylum interview with an officer.
   2. If already in removal proceedings, the case will go before an immigration judge.
4. Decision on the Case:
   1. If asylum is granted, the applicant can remain in the U.S. and eventually apply for a Green Card.
   2. If denied and in removal proceedings, the case may be referred to immigration court for further hearings.

Common Questions About the I-589Asylum Application

Who can apply for asylum using FormI-589?
Anyone present in the U.S. who fears persecution in their home country based on race, religion, nationality, political opinion, or membership in a social group.

Is there a deadline to apply for asylum?
Yes, you must apply within one year of entering the U.S., unless you qualify for an exception due to changed circumstances or extraordinary conditions.

Can I work while my asylum case is pending?
Yes, but you must wait 150 days after filing Form I-589 before applying for a work permit (Form I-765).

Can my family members be included in my asylum application?
Yes, you can include your spouse and children (under 21 and unmarried)in your application.

What happens if my asylum request is denied?
If your application is denied by USCIS, it may be referred to an immigration court for further review. If denied in court, you may be ordered to leave the U.S.

Can I travel outside the U.S. while my asylum case is pending?
Traveling outside the U.S. while your case is pending can be risky. You must apply for a Refugee Travel Document (Form I-131) before leaving. If you return to your home country, it may affect your case.

How long does the asylum process take?
Processing times vary, but it can take several months to years depending on USCIS workload and court backlogs.

The I-589 asylum application does not require renewal because it is a one-time application. However, if an asylum applicant wants to renew their work permit (Employment Authorization Document - EAD), they must follow this process:

Work Permit (EAD) Renewal for Asylum Applicants

1. Determine Eligibility
   1. You can apply for renewal if your asylum case is still pending or if you were granted asylum.
   2. You should apply at least 180 days before your current EAD expires.
2. Complete Form I-765 (Application for Employment Authorization)
   
   1. Select the correct category: (c)(8) – Pending Asylum Application or (a)(5) – Approved Asylum Status‍
3. ‍Submit the Application to USCIS
   1. File FormI-765 online or by mail.
   2. Include a copy of your current EAD and other required documents.
4. Receive a Receipt Notice & Biometrics (if needed)
   1. USCIS will send a receipt notice confirming they received your application.
   2. Some applicants may need to attend a biometrics appointment.
5. Wait for Processing & Approval
   1. If approved, you will receive a new EAD card valid for up to 2 years.

If asylum is granted, you no longer need to renew your work permit; you can apply for a Green Card after 1 year.

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