Understanding the New Annual Asylum Fee for U S Asylum Seekers in 2024

YVE
Sep 30
3 min read

As of late 2024, asylum seekers in the United States face significant changes with the introduction of mandatory fees. The Annual Asylum Fee (AAF) is one of these crucial changes that has generated concern among individuals navigating the complex asylum process. This blog post will break down the details of the AAF, its implications, and other fees that asylum seekers need to be aware of.

What is the Annual Asylum Fee (AAF)?

The Annual Asylum Fee (AAF) is a non-waivable fee of $100 that asylum seekers must pay for each year their Form I-589 application is pending. This fee is applicable to everyone with a pending application, regardless of whether it is with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) or in Immigration Court (EOIR).

The fee is due annually, starting from the first year of pending status. For the 2025 fiscal year, applicants who filed their applications as early as October 1, 2024, will need to pay this fee. For instance, if an individual’s application remains pending for two years, they must pay a total of $200 by the end of that period.

Consequences of Non-Payment

Asylum seekers must understand the serious consequences of failing to pay the AAF. If the fee is not paid, the asylum application may be considered abandoned, potentially leading to the case being dismissed. According to estimates, this could affect thousands of applicants. For example, in the previous year, around 10% of pending asylum cases were dismissed due to non-compliance with payment requirements. It is essential for applicants to make timely payments and stay informed about the status of their applications.

How to Pay the AAF in Immigration Court (EOIR)

The procedure for paying the AAF in immigration court was established in September 2025. Asylum seekers must pay electronically via the EOIR Payment Portal.

When making the payment, it is crucial to select "Court – I-589, Application for Asylum (Initial Fee)" from the options provided. After completing the payment, applicants should save or print the receipt as proof of payment. This receipt must be submitted to the Immigration Court to confirm that the fee has been paid. Keeping a copy of the receipt ensures that there is proof in case of any future disputes regarding the fee payment.

Other Significant Fees for Asylum Seekers

In addition to the Annual Asylum Fee, there are other non-waivable fees that asylum seekers should be aware of:

Initial Asylum Application Fee: A one-time, non-waivable fee of $100 is required to submit a new Form I-589 asylum application.
Initial Work Permit Fee: Asylum seekers now face a $550 fee to file for their first work permit, a fee that was previously waived.
Work Permit Renewal Fee: There is also a $275 fee increase for renewing or extending a work permit, which adds to the financial burden faced by asylum seekers.

These fees represent a significant shift in the financial obligations for asylum applicants, making it crucial to be prepared for these costs. For many, these unexpected fees can represent up to 25% of their monthly income, which could lead to financial strain.

Staying Informed

With the frequent changes in immigration policies and fees, keeping up to date is critical for asylum seekers. Consulting official government websites for the latest details or seeking legal advice can provide essential information about fees and application processes.

Asylum seekers should also be aware that changes can occur rapidly. The U.S. immigration system saw over 40 updates in policies last year alone, underscoring the importance of staying proactive about their rights and responsibilities.

Final Thoughts

The introduction of the Annual Asylum Fee and other fees marks a significant shift for asylum seekers in the United States. Understanding these fees and their implications is essential for anyone involved in the asylum process.

By staying informed and prepared, asylum seekers can effectively manage their applications and avoid risks that could jeopardize their cases. Given the evolving landscape of U.S. immigration, being proactive and seeking guidance will be key to navigating the complexities that lie ahead.