What does the I-590 form represent?

The I-590 form is specifically designated as the "Registration for Classification as Refugee." This form functions as an initial step for individuals seeking refugee status in the United States. Completing the I-590 is essential for those in the refugee admissions process, as it initiates their claim for refugee status based on a well-founded fear of persecution in their home country.

When applicants fill out the I-590, they provide the necessary information that outlines their reasons for seeking refugee status. This information is critical for the U.S. government to assess their eligibility for refugee classification. The I-590 can also serve as a means for individuals to demonstrate their need for humanitarian protection under U.S. immigration law, distinguishing it from applications related to other immigration paths, such as naturalization or petitions for relatives.