How to Pay the New Asylum Fee: Form I-589

paola vanessa romero rondon
Oct 14, 2025
4 min read

As of mid-2025, a new law has changed the rules for applying for asylum in the United States. There is now a fee to file Form I-589. This is very important news, and it is normal to have doubts about how to comply with this new requirement.

We will explain in a simple way what this new Asylum fee is and we will give you the exact steps so that you can make the payment safely and correctly, especially if your case is in Immigration Court.

What is this new Asilo rate?

The new law, known as H.R. 1, established two types of payments for asylum seekers:

Initial Fee of $100: Must be paid the first time you file your asylum application (Form I-589) with the court or USCIS.
100 Annual Fee: Due each year that your asylum case remains pending without a final decision.

A very important point to remember is that the law specifies that there are no fee waivers. This means that all persons applying for asylum must pay this fee.

Step by Step to pay your Asylum in Court (EOIR) fee

Paying this fee is a new and mandatory step. Follow these instructions calmly to do it right.

Before you begin, have the following at hand:

Your A-Number: This is your 8 or 9 digit foreign number.
A Debit Card, Credit Card or Bank Account: Make sure you have the $100 available.
Internet access: From a cell phone or a computer.

Step 1: Go to the official website.

Open your web browser and type the exact address:epay.eoir.justice.gov This is the only official and secure government site to make this payment in court.

Step 2: Enter your information.

The page will ask for your A-Number. Type it very carefully in the box, without putting the letter "A" at the beginning.

Step 3: Choose the right payment!

Click on the "Filing Type" box to see a list. You must choose the correct option for your case:

If this is your FIRST TIME filing for asylum in court:
- Choose: “Court – I-589, Application for Asylum (Initial Fee)”
If your case has been pending for ONE YEAR or more and you pay the ANNUAL fee:
- Choose: “Court – I-589, Application for Asylum (Initial Fee)”

Even if you are paying the ANNUAL Fee, you must select the SAME option in the drop down menu that is used for the initial fee.

Don't worry, even if the text says "Initial Fee", the court system is designed to identify and record this payment as your corresponding annual fee.

Step 4: Confirm and make the payment.

The page will show you the cost of $100. Click "Add to Cart" and then "Pay Now". You will be directed to the secure page Pay.gov, where you will enter your credit card or bank account information to finalize the payment.

Step 5: Save your receipt (Don't lose this proof!).

Once you pay, you will see a confirmation receipt - this piece of paper is very important!

Save it: Take a photo, screenshot or download it as a PDF.
Print it out: You need a physical copy.
Submit it: You must submit a copy of this receipt along with your Form I-589 to the Immigration Court. If you do not, your application may be denied.

Key tips to avoid problems with your payment

Double check your A Number: An error in a single number can cause the payment to not apply to your case. Double check it!
Choose the right fee: Because the "annual asylum fee" concept is not yet available, some unofficial communications have recommended making AAF payments using the "Initial Fee" concept to cover them in the shortest possible time.
Use only the official website: Be wary of any other website or person offering to make the payment.
The receipt is your treasure: Keep the receipt in a safe place and give a copy to your attorney.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. What happens if I do not pay the asylum fee?

If you do not pay the required fee and do not submit the receipt with your application, the Immigration Court may reject your Form I-589. Compliance with this fee is mandatory.

2. Can I ask for this fee to be waived if I have no money?

Unfortunately, no. The law that created this fee specifically states that no exemptions, waivers or fee waivers are allowed. All persons must pay the $100 fee.

3. Does this payment guide also work if my asylum case is with USCIS?

No. This guide is specific to paying at the Immigration Court (EOIR) portal. If your asylum case is affirmative and you are filing with USCIS, they have their own fee payment system.

4. Can my attorney make the payment for me?

Yes, your attorney can guide you or make the payment on your behalf. However, it is your responsibility to make sure that he or she gives you a copy of the official receipt for your records and to present in court.

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