What is a requirement for applicants using form I-589?

The requirement that applicants must apply only if they are in the U.S. is essential for the use of form I-589, which is the application for asylum and withholding of removal. This indicates that the individual must be physically present in the United States to submit an application for asylum. The process is designed for individuals who seek protection from persecution based on specific grounds, including race, religion, nationality, membership in a particular social group, or political opinion.

Physical presence is a critical component because the U.S. asylum system is geared towards providing asylum to those who are already within the country and cannot return safely to their home countries. Individuals outside the U.S. do not have the ability to file an I-589; instead, they must pursue other avenues for seeking protection, such as resettlement through the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) or other refugee programs.

The other options do not align with the requirements for filing form I-589. For instance, there is no age limit of being over 21, there is no need to prove prior military service, and applicants do not need to be classified as refugees prior to applying; they can directly seek asylum through the I-589 form while already in the U