Asylum in the United States
For people already in the US or at a port of entry who fear persecution in their home country.
The Asylum in the United States is a US humanitarian & refugee visa. This guide covers who it's for, the key eligibility criteria, the indicative 2025 cost (Generally no fee for the I-589 asylum application) and processing time (~Months to several years given large case backlogs), the route to permanent residence, common pitfalls and FAQs.
Who the Asylum in the United States is for
For people already in the US or at a port of entry who fear persecution in their home country.
Asylees may apply for a green card 1 year after grant, then citizenship later.
Asylum in the United States - eligibility criteria
- Be physically present in the US or arriving at a port of entry
- Fear persecution on race, religion, nationality, group or political opinion
- Generally file within 1 year of arrival (limited exceptions)
- Not be barred (e.g. firm resettlement, serious crimes)
- Provide credible evidence of the persecution claim
Asylum in the United States cost & processing time (2025)
The indicative government fee for the Asylum in the United States (United States) is Generally no fee for the I-589 asylum application, with an indicative processing time of ~Months to several years given large case backlogs. Figures are for 2025 and may change - confirm at U.S. Department of State (travel.state.gov).
| Type | Settlement |
|---|---|
| Where you apply | Filed inside the US (affirmatively with USCIS or defensively in immigration court) |
| Length of stay | Indefinite asylee status; can apply for a green card after 1 year |
| Work rights | Work authorization available after a waiting period |
| Study rights | Study permitted |
| Government fee | Generally no fee for the I-589 asylum application |
| Processing time | ~Months to several years given large case backlogs |
| Route to PR | Asylees may apply for a green card 1 year after grant, then citizenship later. |
Pathway & next steps
Asylees may apply for a green card 1 year after grant, then citizenship later.
Many applicants also compare Refugee · US Refugee Admissions Program, U Visa · U Nonimmigrant Visa (Crime Victims), Green Card · Adjustment of Status (Green Card in the US). Run a free VisaChief check to see which US route best fits your profile, then prepare an application reviewed by a registered migration agency in our partner network.
Common Asylum in the United States pitfalls we fix
Asylum in the United States - frequently asked questions
How much does the Asylum in the United States cost?
The Asylum in the United States government fee is Generally no fee for the I-589 asylum application. Figures are indicative for 2025; always confirm current fees at U.S. Department of State (travel.state.gov) before applying.
How long does the Asylum in the United States take to process?
Indicative processing time is ~Months to several years given large case backlogs. Actual timeframes vary with caseload, completeness and your circumstances.
Does the Asylum in the United States lead to permanent residence?
Asylees may apply for a green card 1 year after grant, then citizenship later.
Can I work on the Asylum in the United States?
Work rights: Work authorization available after a waiting period.
Who can apply for the Asylum in the United States?
For people already in the US or at a port of entry who fear persecution in their home country.
Sources & official references
This guide is compiled from official United States government sources and is updated periodically. Eligibility, fees and processing times change - always confirm the current rules with the issuing authority before you apply:
- U.S. Department of State (travel.state.gov) - official United States immigration authority