I-589Application for Asylum and for Withholding of Removal
Filed by individuals physically present in the U.S. seeking asylum protection based on persecution or a well-founded fear of persecution on protected grounds.
Filing Overview
Where to File
Processing Times
| Office | Region | Subtype | Estimate | Inquiry date |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Asylum Office (Arlington) | DC · VA | Affirmative asylum | Initial interview within ~21 days | Apr 1, 2026 |
Frequently Asked Questions
The current USCIS filing fee for Form I-589 (Application for Asylum and for Withholding of Removal) is $0. Always confirm the fee on the official USCIS page before submission, as fees are adjusted periodically.
Form I-589 mailing addresses depend on the applicant's category and state of residence. Use the address listed on this page or on the official USCIS "Where to File" page for I-589. USCIS uses different addresses for USPS and for express couriers (FedEx, UPS, DHL).
Processing times for Form I-589 vary by office and case subtype. Use the processing-times table on this page to see current estimates by office, refreshed daily from USCIS.gov.