News & Insights

1. Typical Timeline for Confirmation

• Standard Processing Time:

  • Most applicants receive a withdrawal confirmation letter within 30–60 days of submitting their request.
  • Delays beyond this timeframe can occur due to high workloads at USCIS asylum offices.

• Potential Reasons for Delays:

  • Missing or incomplete information in the withdrawal request.
  • Case complexity or need for additional review by USCIS officers
  • Regional asylum office backlogs (some offices process cases faster than others).

• No Confirmation Received:

  • In some cases, USCIS does not send a confirmation letter unless explicitly requested. If you don’t receive confirmation after a reasonable period, follow up with USCIS to verify your withdrawal has been processed.

2. Steps to Withdraw Your Asylum Application

• Submit a Written Request:

  Send a formal letter to the USCIS asylum office handling your case. Include:

  • Your A-number.
  • Full name and date of birth.
  • A clear statement requesting withdrawal of your asylum application.
  • A copy of your receipt notice for Form I-589 (asylum application).
  • Any supporting documentation, such as a change in immigration status.

• Use Certified Mail or Confirm Delivery:

  • Submit your request via certified mail or a delivery service with tracking to ensure it reaches USCIS.

• Receive Confirmation:

  • If USCIS processes your request, they will issue a withdrawal confirmation letter.

3. What to Do If Confirmation Is Delayed

If you do not receive a confirmation letter within 60 days:

• Follow Up With USCIS:

  • Use the USCIS Asylum Office Locator to contact the asylum office handling your case.
  • Call the USCIS Contact Center at 1-800-375-5283 to inquire about your withdrawal status.

• Submit an Online Inquiry:

  • If 60+ days have passed without confirmation, use the USCIS Case Inquiry Tool to request an update on your withdrawal request.

• Consult an Immigration Attorney:

  • If delays persist or you are concerned about your case status, consult an experienced immigration attorney for guidance.

4. Important Considerations When Withdrawing an Asylum Application

• Consequences of Withdrawal:

  • Withdrawing your asylum application means forfeiting your asylum claim. If you do not have another valid immigration status, you may become subject to removal proceedings.
  • Ensure that you have an alternative immigration status or plan in place before withdrawing your application.

• Work Authorization (EAD):

  • If you had an EAD based on your pending asylum application, it will no longer be valid after the withdrawal is processed.

• Retain Proof of Submission:

  • Keep copies of your withdrawal request and any delivery confirmations. These may be important for future immigration matters.

5. Legal Framework and Policy Background

• Immigration and Nationality Act (INA):

  • INA §208 governs asylum applications, including the option to withdraw before a final decision.

• 8 CFR §208.8:

  • Allows applicants to voluntarily withdraw their asylum applications by submitting a formal written request.

• USCIS Asylum Division Policy:

  • USCIS processes withdrawals as administrative closures, terminating the pending asylum case without a final decision.