Withdrawing an asylum application is a serious decision and should not be taken lightly. Once withdrawn, the protections associated with a pending asylum case, including eligibility for asylum-based work authorization, generally end. If the alternative pathway is not guaranteed, withdrawing too early can leave you without lawful status.

In some situations, it makes sense to pursue another immigration benefit while keeping the asylum case pending as a backup. USCIS and immigration courts do not automatically require withdrawal unless asylum is no longer legally available. Timing and coordination between applications are crucial to avoid unintended consequences.

Before withdrawing, it is important to confirm that you are clearly eligible for the new benefit and that no bars apply. A legal review can help assess whether maintaining both processes temporarily is allowed and whether withdrawal could trigger enforcement or status issues.