Lindsey J. Harris Immigration Law

How Do I Apply for Asylum?

The asylum applicant works with their immigration attorney to gather required documents and fill out Form I-589, application for asylum and for withholding of removal…

pieces of paper with words refugee and asylum
closeup of the hands of a young man with two pieces of paper with the words refugee and asylum written in each one, with a dramatic effect

  1. STEP 1: Initial Filing

    The asylum applicant works with their immigration attorney to gather required documents and fill out Form I-589, application for asylum and for withholding of removal, and start drafting the personal statement. The applicant’s spouse and children under age 21 may be included in the case as dependents.
    The asylum application contains questions about the applicant’s biographical information, address, employment history, immigration status, and details about the asylum claim.
    Next, the applicant explains why he/she is are afraid to return to their home country. The statement should include any threats or harm that the applicant experienced in the past including date, location, and the group or person involved in each incident. Applicant should also describe any threats or harm experienced by family members, friends, or colleagues.

    Checklist

    • Passport bio page & U.S. visa(s)
    • Two new passport-style photos for applicant and each dependent
    • Marriage certificate (if applicable)
    • Children’s birth certificates (if applicable)
    • List of all international travel (include travel dates and purpose for each trip)
    • List of all asylum-related evidence: Evidence may include witness statements, police/medical reports, court documents, photos, social media posts, screenshots of messages, news articles, transcribed videos/phone calls, evidence of group membership, tribal affiliations, etc.
    Application for asylum to USA

  2. STEP 2: Biometrics Appointment

    After the I-589 application for asylum is mailed, the applicant will receive a notice from USCIS confirming receipt of the asylum application. The applicant will then receive a biometrics appointment letter designating a time and place for the applicant to appear for fingerprinting and photos.

  3. STEP 3: Full Asylum Case

    The applicant will work with their immigration lawyer to complete their case before the asylum interview date. The applicant’s completed case should include the notarized asylum declaration, civil documents, evidence supporting the asylum case, country conditions research, and the attorney’s written legal analysis.

    Checklist

    • Notarized asylum declaration (final draft)
    • Applicant should have the declaration notarized prior to the asylum interview date.
    • Civil Documents: May include IDs, certifications, academic records, residential documents, etc.
    • Additional asylum-related evidence: Any asylum-related evidence not previously submitted.
    • Stamped USCIS fingerprint notice
    • Copy of employment authorization card (if applicable).

  4. STEP 4: Asylum Interview

    The immigration attorney will accompany the applicant to the asylum interview. Asylum interviews typically range from two to four hours. The timing of interview dates vary, depending on the asylum office interview schedule. Be sure to bring:

    Checklist

    • Originals of all available documents submitted
    • Passport & photo IDs
    • USCIS Notices
    • Any new evidence not previously submitted
    • Copy of I-589 application and complete asylum case

    If you are considering applying for asylum, please contact The Law Office of Lindsey J. Harris to discuss your case.