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Fill in Your USCIS I-589 Template

The USCIS I-589 form is a crucial document for individuals seeking asylum in the United States. It allows applicants to request protection based on their fear of persecution due to certain protected grounds. Completing this form accurately is essential for the asylum process to move forward smoothly.

Table of Contents

The USCIS I-589 form is a vital document for individuals seeking asylum or withholding of removal in the United States. Completing this form initiates a formal request for protection due to fear of persecution in one's home country. Asylum seekers must provide detailed information about their identity, the reasons for their fear, and any past experiences of harm or mistreatment. In addition to personal details, the I-589 requires the applicant to disclose relevant family information and describe their specific circumstances that led to the need for asylum. Importantly, it allows individuals to explain any connections to the persecution they fear, as well as to outline any government involvement or acquiescence to such acts of persecution. Submitting this form is often a complex process that requires attention to detail and an understanding of both the legal implications and personal narrative involved in the asylum request. Given its significance in determining one’s legal status and safety in the U.S., accurate completion and timely filing are crucial steps for those navigating this challenging situation.

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

↓ USCIS I-589 PDF

File Specs

Fact Name	Description
Purpose	The USCIS I-589 form is used to apply for asylum and for withholding of removal in the United States.
Eligibility	Individuals who are physically present in the U.S. can use this form if they fear persecution in their home country.
Filing Deadline	A completed I-589 must be submitted within one year of arriving in the United States, with some exceptions.
Additional Resources	The form is governed by Section 208 of the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA) and related regulations.

USCIS I-589 - Usage Guidelines

Once you are ready to submit your application, completing the USCIS I-589 form accurately is crucial. Take your time to ensure all information is correct. This form is essential for requesting asylum and can significantly impact your future.

Obtain the Form: Download the USCIS I-589 form from the official USCIS website or request a paper form by mail.
Read the Instructions: Review all instructions provided with the form. Understanding the process can help you avoid common mistakes.
Provide Personal Information: Fill out your full name, address, date of birth, and country of origin in the designated sections.
Complete the Family Information: If applicable, include details about your spouse and children, even if they are not applying with you.
Explain Your Fear: Describe your fears of persecution in detail. Include specific incidents, dates, and names if possible.
List Any Previous Applications: Disclose any previous asylum applications you have filed and their outcomes.
Answer the Questions: Respond to all questions truthfully, including your criminal history, if any.
Sign and Date the Form: Ensure you sign the application before submission. An unsigned form will be rejected.
Gather Required Documents: Collect supporting documents, such as personal statements and any evidence of persecution.
Submit Your Application: Mail your completed form and supporting documents to the appropriate USCIS address, or file it in person if allowed.

After submitting your application, you will receive a receipt notice. Keep this notice safe as it is proof that your application is in process. Be prepared for possible interviews or additional requests from USCIS for further information.

Your Questions, Answered

What is the USCIS I-589 form?

The USCIS I-589 form is the application used to apply for asylum in the United States. This form allows individuals to request protection based on a well-founded fear of persecution in their home country. Completing this form is an important step for those seeking refuge due to fear of harm based on race, religion, nationality, political opinion, or membership in a particular social group.

Who should file the I-589 form?

Individuals who believe they qualify for asylum should file the I-589 form. This includes people who have suffered persecution or have a credible fear of future persecution in their home country. Both individuals currently in the U.S. and those who may have arrived recently can submit this form. It can also be filed on behalf of a spouse or child under certain circumstances.

What is the filing deadline for the I-589 form?

The I-589 form should generally be filed within one year of arriving in the United States. If you miss this deadline, your application may be denied. However, there are exceptions to this rule. Individuals may still apply after one year if they can demonstrate changed circumstances in their situation that relate to their fear of persecution.

What happens after I submit the I-589 form?

After submitting the I-589 form, USCIS will process your application. The next steps usually include receiving a notice for a biometrics appointment, where fingerprints and photographs will be taken. Following that, an interview will be scheduled, where an officer will evaluate your asylum claim. It's important to prepare for this interview with all relevant information and documentation.

Can I work while my I-589 application is pending?

Yes, you may be eligible to apply for a work permit while your I-589 application is pending. Generally, you can apply for employment authorization 150 days after filing your I-589, as long as you have not received a final decision on your application. It's essential to follow the proper procedure to ensure that your work permit application is submitted correctly.

Common mistakes

Inaccurate Information: Many individuals provide incorrect names, addresses, or dates. Even a small error can delay processing or lead to complications.
Missing Signatures: Failing to sign the form is a common mistake. The application isn’t valid without a signature, and it will be rejected outright.
Inadequate Supporting Documents: Applicants often neglect to include necessary documents, such as proof of identity or evidence supporting their fear of persecution. This can lead to a denial of their application.
Not Following Instructions: The form comes with a detailed set of instructions. Ignoring these can result in mistakes—like submitting the application to the wrong address.
Failure to Explain Claims Clearly: Some applicants do not articulate their reasons for seeking asylum adequately. Vague or unclear responses may not convince the reviewing officer of the validity of their claims.
Rushed Submissions: Completing the form hastily often leads to overlooked details or errors. Taking the time to carefully fill it out is crucial for a successful application.
Ignoring Deadlines: Each stage of the application process has its own timelines. Missing deadlines can lead to serious setbacks or outright rejection of the application.
Not Seeking Legal Assistance: Some individuals forgo professional help, thinking they can manage the process alone. However, guidance from an expert can prevent many common pitfalls.

Documents used along the form

The USCIS I-589 form is primarily used for seeking asylum or withholding of removal in the United States. When submitting this form, several other documents and forms may be required to support the application and demonstrate eligibility. The following list outlines some commonly associated documents.

Cover Letter: A letter that outlines the purpose of the application and summarizes the supporting documents included in the submission.
Personal Statement: A detailed account from the applicant explaining the reasons for seeking asylum, including personal experiences and fears of persecution.
Identity Documents: This may include copies of a passport, birth certificate, or national ID card to establish identity and nationality.
Supporting Evidence: Documents such as affidavits, medical records, or police reports that strengthen the claims made in the I-589 form and corroborate the applicant's story.
Form I-765: This form is used to apply for employment authorization for individuals who have filed an asylum application. It allows the applicant to work in the U.S. while awaiting a decision on their asylum case.

Each of these documents plays a crucial role in the asylum process, providing important context and substantiation for the applicant's claims. Ensuring that all required documents are accurate and complete can help facilitate a smoother application process.

Similar forms

The USCIS I-589 form, used for applying for asylum in the United States, shares attributes with the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) Form N-400, Application for Naturalization. Both forms require in-depth information about the applicant's background and motivations. Just as the I-589 focuses on fears of persecution in the applicant's home country, the N-400 assesses an individual’s commitment to the United States, including knowledge of history and government. Each form plays a critical role in determining eligibility for legal protections or status within the country.

Another document that resembles the I-589 is the I-130, Petition for Alien Relative. This form is used by U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents to establish family relationships. Similarly, the I-589 allows individuals to establish their credibility and reasons for seeking asylum based on safety concerns. Both documents require supporting evidence and personal statements, emphasizing the importance of legitimate connections and circumstances in the immigration process.

The I-765 form, Application for Employment Authorization, also has similarities with the I-589. While the I-589 is concerned with protection from harm, the I-765 can be submitted by individuals seeking the right to work while their asylum claim is pending. Both require applicants to demonstrate their current status and provide proof of eligibility. The need for work authorization is often a pressing issue for asylum seekers trying to rebuild their lives in the U.S.

Additionally, the I-131 form, Application for Travel Document, bears resemblance to the I-589. This form is used by individuals seeking a Refugee Travel Document or Advance Parole. Like the I-589, the I-131 enables individuals to express their circumstances and circumstances allowing them to travel safely without losing their immigration status. Both forms involve careful consideration around the conditions of their home countries and ensure a careful review of the applicant's situation.

Lastly, the I-601, Application for Waiver of Grounds of Inadmissibility, mirrors several aspects of the I-589. While the I-589 seeks asylum based on a well-founded fear of persecution, the I-601 helps individuals who may be otherwise ineligible for immigration benefits due to certain legal missteps or issues from their past. Both forms require detailed explanations about the applicant’s background and compelling reasons for their requests. In essence, both documents play vital roles in allowing individuals to present their cases for remaining in the country amidst challenging circumstances.

Dos and Don'ts

When filling out the USCIS I-589 form, consider these important dos and don’ts to help ensure that your application is completed correctly:

Do read the instructions carefully before starting.
Do provide accurate and complete information.
Do sign and date your form before submitting.
Do keep a copy of your completed form for your records.
Don’t leave any questions blank; if a question doesn’t apply, mark it as "N/A."
Don’t use corrections fluid to change any information.
Don’t wait until the last minute to submit your form.

Misconceptions

Myth 1: The I-589 form is only for people who are currently in the U.S.

This is not true. While many individuals complete the I-589 form after arriving in the United States, it can also be submitted by individuals at U.S. borders or ports of entry. This means that someone seeking asylum can start the process even before formally stepping into the country.

Myth 2: You need a lawyer to submit the I-589 form.

While hiring a lawyer can provide valuable assistance, it is not a requirement. Individuals can fill out and submit the I-589 form on their own. However, having legal guidance can help ensure all information is accurately provided and improve the chances of success.

Myth 3: Submitting the I-589 form guarantees asylum approval.

This misconception can lead to disappointment. Submitting the form is just the first step in the process, and approval is not guaranteed. The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) evaluates each case individually based on the information provided and the applicant's circumstances.

Myth 4: You cannot submit additional documents after the I-589 form is filed.

This is incorrect. Applicants can submit additional evidence or updates even after the initial submission of the I-589 form. This flexibility allows individuals to strengthen their case by providing more relevant information as it becomes available.

Key takeaways

When completing the USCIS I-589 form, there are several essential points to keep in mind. These can help ensure that the application process goes smoothly and effectively.

The I-589 form is essential for individuals seeking asylum or withholding of removal in the United States.
Always use the most recent version of the form to avoid any delays in processing.
Be thorough and detailed in your responses; incomplete or vague answers can lead to challenges in your application.
It is important to sign and date the form. A missing signature will cause processing delays.
Submit the form within one year of arrival in the U.S. unless you qualify for an exception.
Document all supporting evidence, such as witness statements or reports about conditions in your home country.
Keep a copy of the completed form and all documents submitted for your records.
File the form in person if possible, as this allows for immediate confirmation of receipt.
Consider seeking legal assistance to help navigate complexities and strengthen your application.

By keeping these takeaways in mind, applicants can better position themselves for a successful submission of the USCIS I-589 form.

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