How to Pay the Annual Asylum Fee (AAF): A Step-by-Step Guide
- Canero Fadul Reis Law
- Jul 16
- 3 min read
If you have a pending asylum application in the United States, you may be required to pay the Annual Asylum Fee (AAF). Understanding whether the fee applies to your case, where to pay it, and how to complete the payment correctly is essential to protecting your immigration case.
This guide explains who must pay the fee, how to determine where your case is pending, and the payment process for each agency.
Who Must Pay the Annual Asylum Fee?
The Annual Asylum Fee generally applies to individuals whose asylum application has been pending for at least one year.
Not every asylum applicant will owe the fee immediately. The government determines when the fee becomes due based on your case, and the payment process depends on which agency currently has jurisdiction over your asylum application.
Why Does the Payment Method Matter?
Many applicants assume that every asylum-related payment is made through USCIS. That is not always the case.
Your payment method depends on where your case is currently pending:
USCIS (Affirmative Asylum)
Immigration Court (EOIR) (Defensive Asylum)
Board of Immigration Appeals (BIA) (Appeal Pending)
Paying through the wrong portal may delay processing and create unnecessary complications.
How to Pay If Your Case Is Pending with USCIS
If your affirmative asylum application is pending with USCIS:
Visit the official USCIS Annual Asylum Fee payment portal.
USCIS – Annual Asylum Fee Payment Portal: https://my.uscis.gov/accounts/annual-asylum-fee/start/overview
Enter your A-Number and your asylum receipt number (or Annual Asylum Fee notice number).
If the fee is due, you will see a "Pay and Submit" button.
Complete the payment using an accepted payment method.
Save your confirmation and Agency Tracking ID for your records.
If the system indicates that your fee is not yet due, no payment is required at that time.
How to Pay If Your Case Is Before the Immigration Court (EOIR)
If your asylum application is pending before an Immigration Judge:
Access the official EOIR payment portal.
Immigration Court (EOIR) – Payment Portal: https://epay.eoir.justice.gov/
Enter your A-Number.
Select:
Court – Form I-589, Annual Asylum Fee for Asylum and for Withholding of Removal (AAF).
Complete the payment.
Save your payment confirmation and tracking number.
Keep proof of payment and submit it to the Immigration Court if instructed.
How to Pay If Your Case Is Before the Board of Immigration Appeals (BIA)
Applicants with an asylum case pending before the Board of Immigration Appeals generally use the same EOIR payment portal – Payment Portal: https://epay.eoir.justice.gov/
Follow the payment instructions provided in your notice and retain your confirmation for your records.
What Happens If You Miss the Deadline?
If you receive an official Annual Asylum Fee notice, it is important to act promptly.
Failure to pay the fee within the required timeframe may have serious consequences, including:
Rejection or dismissal of your case, where permitted by law
Delays in processing
Additional complications affecting your immigration benefits
Always keep copies of your payment confirmation and any notices you receive.
Tips Before You Pay
Before submitting your payment:
Confirm where your asylum case is currently pending.
Have your A-Number and receipt information available.
Use the correct payment portal.
Save every confirmation and tracking number.
Keep copies of all receipts with your immigration records.
Need Help Determining Where to Pay?
Every asylum case is different. If you are unsure whether the Annual Asylum Fee applies to you, where your case is pending, or how to complete the payment correctly, it is important to obtain legal guidance before missing a deadline.
The immigration process continues to evolve, and understanding your obligations can help avoid unnecessary delays or complications.
Questions about your asylum case? Contact Canero Fadul Reis PLLC to schedule a consultation with an experienced immigration attorney and receive guidance tailored to your situation.
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