Guide to filing Form I-589

Form I-589 is essential for Hondurans seeking safety in the United States through asylum.

This form allows you to apply for asylum and withholding of removal, providing a channel for those facing persecution in their home country.

Here we will guide you through each step necessary to complete and submit this form correctly, maximizing your chances of success in this critical process.

What is Form I-589?

Form I-589, Application for Asylum and for Withholding of Removal, is used by individuals who are physically present in the United States. and who are not U.S. citizens seeking asylum because of persecution based on race, religion, nationality, membership in a particular social group, or political opinion.

This form also allows you to apply for protection under the Convention against Torture if you face serious threats in your home country.

Who is eligible to use this form?

To be eligible to file Form I-589, you must be physically present in the US. and not be a U.S. citizen.

It is crucial to file this application within one year of your arrival in the United States, unless there are changed circumstances that affect your eligibility or extraordinary circumstances related to the delay in filing.

Presentation of the Asylum Application

To start with, we can download it here in Spanish

Necessary Documentation

Before filing Form I-589, it is essential to gather all the necessary documentation to support your case:

• Proof of identity: Passport, national ID, or any other official document.
• Evidence of persecution: Documents showing the persecution or danger you face in your home country, such as police reports, news reports, or testimonies.
• Additional documentation: Any other documents that may strengthen your application, including medical or legal reports.

Completing the Form

It is essential to fill out each part of the form accurately to avoid errors that may cause delays or rejection of the application. You must:

• Answer each question clearly.
• If you do not know the answer or cannot answer, provide a detailed explanation as to why.
• Be sure to use the most recent edition of the form and follow the specific instructions for submission.

Filing Form I-589: Where & How to File

Lockbox Addresses by Residence

To ensure that your application is processed smoothly, you must send your Form I-589 to the correct lockbox address. Specific addresses vary depending on your state of residence in the United States:

• For residents of Texas, Oklahoma, New Mexico, Mississippi, and other southern and southeastern states:
  • USCIS Texas Service Center
  • Attention: Asylum
  • P.O. Box 851892
  • Mesquite, TX 75185-1892
• For residents of California, Nevada, Utah, Colorado, and other western and northwestern states:
  • USCIS Nebraska Service Center
  • P.O. Box 87589
  • Lincoln, NE 68501-7589

These addresses are for affirmative asylum applications that are not being filed in the context of deportation proceedings already underway.

If your case is already being handled by an immigration court, you must follow the instructions provided by the court regarding the filing of any additional documentation, including Form I-589.

Before submitting your form, it is crucial to verify the correct lockbox address information on the official USCIS website. USCIS periodically updates directions and procedures, so staying informed will help you avoid delays in processing your application.

What to Expect After the Presentation

Once you have submitted the form, the review process can take several months.

During this time, you may be called for an interview or need to provide additional information. Keep your contact information up to date and pay attention to any communication from USCIS.

Available Resources and Support

It is vital to have support during the asylum application process. There are several resources where you can get additional help:

• Free or low-cost legal assistance: Many non-profit organizations offer legal services to help you navigate the asylum process. These services may include assistance in completing forms, preparation for interviews, and representation in court proceedings.
• Informational websites: The official USCIS website provides detailed guides and resources for asylum seekers. Using these tools can give you a better understanding of requirements and processes.

Using these tools and resources correctly can significantly improve your chances of success in your asylum application.

Useful USCIS Tools

USCIS offers several online tools that can be of great help:

• Filing Instructions Tool: This tool helps you determine where you should file your Form I-589 based on your specific situation.
• Asylum Seeker Resource Center: An online resource where you can find detailed information and additional assistance to better understand the asylum application process.

Filing for asylum in the United States is a complex and demanding process, especially for Hondurans seeking protection.

Making sure you follow all the steps correctly, taking advantage of available resources and seeking professional help when necessary, can significantly increase your chances of getting a favorable response. Do not hesitate to seek support and guidance throughout this process to protect your rights and secure your future.

Form I-589 Filing Fee

Information on the fees associated with Form I-589 and other forms related to immigration to the United States reveals that there is no cost for filing Form I-589, which is used to apply for asylum and for suspension of removal.

This is crucial because it ensures that there are no economic barriers preventing applicants from seeking the protection they need in the US.

For other forms, fees vary widely depending on the type of application and the method of submission (paper or online).

For example, the paper filing fee for a Form I-485, which is to register permanent residence or adjust status, is $1,440, while for certain categories of applicants, such as refugees or those in certain special immigrant categories, the fee may be $0 .

These details are crucial to understanding not only the costs associated with the immigration processes, but also the available exemptions that may affect applicants depending on their specific situation.