To apply for asylum in the U.S., you must file Form I-589, Application for Asylum and for Withholding of Removal, within one year of your last arrival in the country. You do not need to pay a fee. After filing, you’ll receive a receipt notice and be scheduled for a biometrics appointment. Later, you’ll be interviewed by an asylum officer (affirmative process) or present your case in immigration court (defensive process). If approved, you can remain in the U.S. and eventually apply for a green card.