I-589
Application for Asylum and for Withholding of Removal
What is the I-589?
The I-589, Application for Asylum and for Withholding of Removal, is the official form used to apply for asylum in the United States. If you fear persecution in your home country because of your race, religion, nationality, political opinion, or membership in a particular social group, you may qualify for asylum.
By applying for asylum, you are asking the U.S. government for protection so you can stay legally in the United States and avoid being sent back to your country of origin.
How the Asylum Process Works
- File Form I-589
– Complete the I-589 form with accurate personal information and details of your claim.
– Submit it within 1 year of arriving in the U.S., unless you qualify for an exception. - Receive Receipt Notice
– USCIS will send you a confirmation that they received your application. - Biometrics Appointment
– You will receive a notice to attend fingerprinting at a USCIS Application Support Center. - Asylum Interview (or Immigration Court Hearing)
– If your case stays with USCIS, you will have an interview with an asylum officer.
– If your case is referred to immigration court, you will attend hearings before an immigration judge. - Decision
– USCIS or the immigration judge will decide your case. If granted asylum, you will receive protection and the right to apply for a work permit and, later, permanent residency.
Who Qualifies for Asylum?
You may qualify for asylum if:
- You are physically present in the U.S. or arriving at a U.S. port of entry
- You have been persecuted or fear persecution because of:
– Race
– Religion
– Nationality
– Political opinion
– Membership in a particular social group - You apply within 1 year of arrival (unless an exception applies)
Documents You’ll Need
When filing for asylum, it’s important to include evidence supporting your claim. You will need:
- Completed I-589 form
- Personal statement or declaration describing why you are afraid to return to your country
- Copy of your passport or other ID documents
- Evidence of past persecution (if available), such as:
– Police reports
– Medical records
– News articles about your situation
– Letters from witnesses or community members - Any documents showing threats, harm, or targeting against you
Note: Every case is unique. We will help you gather the strongest evidence for your situation.
How Long Does the Process Take?
The asylum process timeline varies depending on your case and jurisdiction. On average:
- Biometrics: within a few weeks after filing
- Interview: could be scheduled within months or may take years (due to backlog)
- Decision: sometimes given shortly after the interview, but court cases may take longer
Work Permit Eligibility: After 150 days have passed from filing your asylum application, you may be eligible to apply for a work permit if no decision has been made yet.
How We Help at IMG Services LLC
Filing for asylum can be stressful and confusing. At IMG Services LLC, we:
- Guide you through completing Form I-589
- Help you write a strong personal statement
- Assist you in gathering and organizing supporting evidence
- Prepare you for your interview or hearing
- Explain your rights and next steps clearly
We’re here to support you every step of the way, ensuring that your case is presented as clearly and strongly as possible.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I apply for asylum if I’ve been in the U.S. more than 1 year?
A: Generally, you must apply within 1 year of arrival, but there are exceptions for changed circumstances or extraordinary reasons for delay.
Q: Can I include my spouse and children in my application?
A: Yes—if they are physically present in the U.S., you can list them as dependents on your application.
Q: Will I get a work permit when I file for asylum?
A: No, but you may apply for a work permit 150 days after filing if no decision has been made yet.
Need Help with Your Asylum Application?
Don’t go through this process alone. Contact IMG Services LLC today to schedule a consultation or to get help preparing your I-589 application.