Starting in early October, the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has initiated the distribution of formal notices to all asylum seekers with pending applications, specifically those who have submitted Form I-589.
These notices aim to expedite case processing and introduce a significant change: the imposition of a new mandatory annual fee.
Introducing the New Annual Asylum Fee
According to USCIS, asylum applicants who have already filed Form I-589, Application for Asylum and for Withholding of Removal, will begin receiving notifications outlining new financial obligations and procedural requirements. Legal representatives listed on Form G-28 are also being informed.
“On October 1, 2025, we began sending notifications to all foreign nationals with a pending Form I-589, requiring payment of the new Asylum Annual Fee (AAF),” states the official USCIS notice.
This requirement is in compliance with Public Law 119-21 (P.L. 119-21), mandating a $100 AAF for each calendar year the application remains pending. The fee is mandatory and no exemptions are allowed, even in cases of financial hardship.
Consequences of Non-Payment
Failure to meet this new requirement could have severe consequences. USCIS warns that not paying the AAF within 30 days of receiving the notification may cause delays or negatively impact the case, including the progress or outcome of the asylum request.
“Failure to pay could negatively affect your application, including, but not limited to, processing delays,” clarifies the agency.
Payments must be processed online through the official site my.uscis.gov, and require both the Alien Registration Number and the Receipt Number provided in the received notice.
Recent Changes in Asylum Procedures
Beyond the introduction of this fee, USCIS has undertaken a massive review of pending asylum cases, resulting in an increase in notifications for various purposes:
- Biometric appointments.
- Requests for additional evidence (RFE).
- Scheduled interviews.
- Address change confirmations.
The official website for Form I-589 has also been updated, along with the section dedicated to asylum, reflecting a more active policy of case monitoring and resolution.
Additionally, text message notifications now come exclusively from the number 872466 (USAIMM). Any other number, especially those requesting payments through unofficial channels, may be fraudulent.
Who Is Affected by This Policy?
This new policy primarily impacts the following groups:
- Individuals who have filed the I-589 and are awaiting a response, interview, or resolution.
- Applicants who have recently changed their address and may not have updated their details, risking missing crucial notifications.
- Families relying on these proceedings for work permits, legal assistance, or additional immigration benefits.
Essential Steps for Applicants
If your Form I-589 is still pending, it's crucial to follow these recommendations:
- Check your online account: Regularly log into my.uscis.gov and review the “Case Status” section at least once a week to avoid surprises.
- Monitor your physical mailbox: USCIS continues to send printed letters with important appointments like interviews or biometric collection.
- Update your address: If you’ve moved, submit Form AR-11 within 10 days of the change. This can be done online or by postal mail.
- Confirm your appointments: Notifications include date, time, and location. If you cannot attend, reschedule through your official account.
- Avoid fraud: No USCIS agent will request payments over the phone, via Zelle, cryptocurrency, or unofficial means. Report any suspicious activity.
Preventing Delays or Loss of Benefits
Activate notifications in your USCIS account to be immediately informed of any updates.
Keep digital copies of the I-589, proof of submission, and all official correspondence.
Organize your personal documents: ID, proof of address, notifications, and confirmations.
When to Seek Assistance
If you have questions regarding your case status or have missed a notification, contact the USCIS Customer Service Center by calling 800-375-5283. You can also schedule an in-person appointment at my.uscis.gov/appointment, available in Spanish.
Understanding Form I-589
Form I-589 is the official application for asylum or withholding of removal (protection against deportation) in the United States. Generally, it must be filed within the first year after the applicant's arrival in the country.
The process includes several stages: biometric data collection, interviews, evidence submission, and a final decision. Each notification from USCIS represents a step in this journey.
The new Asylum Annual Fee marks a significant change for thousands of applicants with pending processes. If you find yourself in this situation, do not ignore the notices you receive, as they may involve mandatory payments, essential appointments, or update requirements.
Stay vigilant by checking your account, keeping your information current, and acting promptly. In many cases, a simple notification could signify the next crucial step in your path.
FAQs About the New Asylum Annual Fee
What is the new Asylum Annual Fee?
The Asylum Annual Fee is a $100 charge mandated by Public Law 119-21 for each calendar year that an asylum application remains pending.
What happens if I don't pay the AAF?
Failure to pay the AAF within 30 days of receiving the notice could result in delays or negative impacts on your asylum case, potentially affecting its progress or outcome.
How do I pay the Asylum Annual Fee?
The fee must be paid online through the official website my.uscis.gov, using the Alien Registration Number and Receipt Number provided in the notice.
Who is affected by this new fee?
The fee affects individuals with pending Form I-589 applications, those who recently changed addresses, and families relying on asylum processes for work permits and other benefits.