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Self-Help Resources

How to Prepare an Asylum Application Without a Lawyer

This guide explains how to prepare the I-589, Application for Asylum and for Withholding of Removal (protection from being deported). This is a complicated process, but this guide is for people who don't have a lawyer to help them. 

I-589 Instructions and Application in Spanish

The Asylum Seeker Advocacy Project has created a video that gives an overview of the I-589 application in Spanish. Translations of the instructions and form are provided below.


Appearing in Court

Understanding Immigration Bond

Thursday, December 30, 2021

Tool or Factsheet

Understanding Immigration Bonds

This factsheet helps immigrants who are currently detained understand what an immigration bond is and how to ask for one. Click the title link to access the publication page.

Available in the following languages: English - Arabic - Cantonese - Farsi - Filipino - French - Hindi - Hmong - Karen Sgaw - Mandarin Chinese - Portuguese - Russian - Spanish - Swahili - Urdu - Vietnamese


Self-Help Guides for Detained Immigrants

The U.S. Executive Office for Immigration Review (EOIR) has assembled a list of self-help guides in English and Spanish that provide information on immigration removal proceedings (deportation) and common forms of relief. The guides are tailored to assist individuals detained by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).


Instructional Videos on the Immigration Process in English and Spanish

Innovation Law Lab worked with amazing interpreters, translators, videographers, and attorneys to create a series of instructional videos in English, Spanish, and other languages. The videos cover key parts of the U.S. asylum process but are not a substitute for legal advice from an immigration lawyer on your individual case.

Click the question below for links to the videos on YouTube.

This video explains the difference between pro se (when you don't have a lawyer) and full representation (when you do have a lawyer).

Spanish

These videos explain the difference between the immigration branches of ICE, ISAP, and the Immigration Court.

English

Spanish


These videos explain the I-589 asylum application, why it is needed, and how to fill one out.

English

Spanish

These videos explain what biometrics are and how they are obtained from the applicant.

English

Spanish

These videos explain the Notice to Appear ("NTA") and hearing notice, and how to read them.

English

Spanish

These videos explain what a master calendar hearing ("MCH") is, and what to expect at these preliminary hearings about your immigration case.

English

Spanish

These videos explain what the Employment Authorization Document ("EAD"), or work permit, is.

English

Spanish

These videos explain the Freedom of Information Act request  ("FOIA") and why it might be needed.

English

Spanish

These videos explain what a merits, or final, hearing is and how to prepare for one.

English

Spanish