Form I-589: Application for Asylum and Withholding of Removal
Home » Document Resources » Forms »
Form I-589 is the official application used by individuals seeking protection in the United States due to persecution or fear of persecution in their home country. This form allows eligible applicants to request asylum or withholding of removal—two vital protections that can prevent deportation and provide legal status in the U.S.
At Translations Certified, we ensure that all foreign-language documents submitted with your asylum application are accurately translated, certified, and compliant with USCIS requirements.
Quick Navigation
What Is Form I-589 and Who Needs It?
Form I-589, Application for Asylum and for Withholding of Removal, is used by individuals who are:
- Unable or unwilling to return to their home country
- Facing or fearing persecution based on:
- Race
- Religion
- Nationality
- Political opinion
- Membership in a particular social group
Form I-589 also allows eligible individuals to apply for withholding of removal, a separate protection that prevents deportation to a country where the applicant is likely to face serious harm.
Deadline: Applicants must generally file Form I-589 within one year of arriving in the U.S. Limited exceptions apply for delayed filings due to changed or extraordinary circumstances.
Eligibility Requirements for Form I-589
To qualify for asylum or withholding of removal, you must provide credible evidence of:
- Past persecution or a well-founded fear of future persecution in your home country
- Your identity and nationality, such as a passport or birth certificate
- Specific reasons you are being targeted (e.g., political affiliation, ethnic group, religious practice)
Additional conditions may apply if:
- You were previously denied asylum
- You are subject to removal proceedings
- You have criminal convictions that impact eligibility
Legal counsel is strongly advised to evaluate your specific eligibility.
Documents Required for Form I-589
While not all documents are mandatory, providing strong evidence improves your chances of approval. Commonly submitted documents include:
- Proof of Identity
- Passport, national ID, or birth certificate
- Personal Statements and Affidavits
- Your own detailed written testimony
- Statements from family members, friends, or colleagues
- Supporting Documentation
- Police reports, arrest records, medical reports, or legal documents related to the persecution
- Country Condition Reports
- News articles, human rights organization reports, or U.S. State Department reports documenting persecution in your home country
All non-English documents must include a certified English translation to comply with USCIS standards.
Do I Need Certified Translations for Form I-589?
Yes. USCIS requires that all foreign-language documents submitted with your application be accompanied by a certified English translation. This includes:
- Personal identification documents (passport, ID card, birth certificate)
- Letters and affidavits from witnesses or legal representatives
- Medical or psychological records
- Police or court documents
- Official country documents or foreign legal forms
Translations Certified ensures that all translations:
- Are 100% accurate and complete
- Include a signed certificate of translation
- Are formatted to meet USCIS submission standards
- Are notarized upon request
Failing to provide certified translations may result in delays or denial of your asylum claim.
How Translations Certified Can Help with Your Asylum Application
We understand that filing for asylum is one of the most critical and sensitive legal actions a person can take. At Translations Certified, we provide fast, secure, and USCIS-compliant translation services to help you meet every documentation requirement.
Our services include:
- Certified translations of personal statements, identification, affidavits, and country evidence
- Notarized translations, available upon request
- 24–48 Hour Turnaround for urgent cases
- Translations in over 100 languages, including Arabic, Spanish, Russian, Dari, Pashto, French, and more
- Guaranteed USCIS Compliance
- We work with asylum seekers, attorneys, and nonprofit organizations to support fair, timely, and complete asylum filings.
Get the Professional Help You Need
Filing Form I-589 is a life-changing step. Make sure every document you submit is clear, certified, and accepted by USCIS.
Request a free quote today and let our team help you submit your asylum application with accuracy, care, and compliance.
References:
The information provided here is for general informational purposes only and is not intended to be legal advice. While we strive to ensure that the information is accurate and current, it is not a substitute for professional legal counsel. Please consult with a qualified attorney for advice regarding your specific situation or legal questions.