Yes, entering the U.S. illegally does not prevent you from applying for asylum. U.S. law allows anyone physically present in the U.S. to request asylum, regardless of how they arrived.

You must apply within one year of your last entry. This rule applies even if you entered without inspection. Exceptions exist for special circumstances.

You may be placed in removal (deportation) proceedings. In that case, you can apply for asylum as a defense during your immigration court case.

If you’re not in removal proceedings, you can still apply affirmatively through USCIS. This means submitting Form I-589 and going to an asylum interview.