Green Card Options for Asylum and Refugee Status Holders

1. What are the options for Green Card eligibility for asylum and refugee status holders?


Asylum and refugee status holders may be eligible to apply for a green card (lawful permanent resident status) in the United States. To be eligible, applicants must have been physically present in the United States for at least one year after being granted asylum or being admitted as a refugee.

The green card application process consists of three steps:

1. Complete the Application for Adjustment of Status (Form I-485).
2. Attend an interview with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).
3. Receive a decision on your application.

If approved, you will receive a green card in the mail.

2. How long does it take to receive a Green Card through asylum or refugee status?


The timeline for receiving a Green Card through asylum or refugee status varies depending on the individual’s specific situation, but it typically takes 9-12 months for a refugee to receive their Green Card.

3. Are there any special requirements for asylum and refugee applicants to obtain a Green Card?


Yes, asylum applicants and refugees must meet certain eligibility requirements in order to obtain a Green Card. Generally, they must have been physically present in the United States for at least one year after being granted asylum or refugee status. Additionally, they must have maintained good moral character throughout their stay in the United States.

4. Are there any restrictions on employment for asylum and refugee status holders when applying for a Green Card?


Yes, there are certain restrictions on employment for asylum and refugee status holders when applying for a Green Card. Applicants for asylum or refugee status cannot accept unauthorized employment and must have been lawfully employed since they arrived in the United States. Additionally, employment authorization is not granted until an individual has been admitted to the United States as a permanent resident. For more information on work authorization requirements for Green Card applicants, please refer to the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services website.

5. How can an asylum or refugee applicant prove their eligibility for a Green Card?


An asylum or refugee applicant can prove their eligibility for a Green Card by providing documents and evidence that demonstrate they meet the requirements for asylum or refugee status. This includes providing proof of identity, nationality, and persecution; evidence of a credible fear of persecution; and evidence of their need for protection. Depending on the situation, an individual may also need to provide additional evidence such as medical records, police reports, witness statements, and other related documents. The application process includes an interview with a USCIS immigration officer who will assess the applicant’s eligibility for a Green Card.

6. Is the application process different for asylum and refugee applicants compared to other types of immigrants?


Yes, the application process is different for asylum and refugee applicants compared to other types of immigrants. For asylum seekers and refugees, the application process includes an interview with an immigration official to determine whether an individual qualifies for protection. This process also involves an assessment of the individual’s past persecution, the circumstances of their departure from their home country, and their ability to establish themselves in a new country. Other types of immigrants may go through a slightly different application process, including submitting an application for a visa or green card in order to enter or remain in the United States.

7. Can an individual who has been granted asylum or refugee status apply for a Green Card without having to leave the U.S.?


Yes. An individual who has been granted asylum or refugee status may apply for a Green Card without having to leave the U.S. They can apply for a Green Card one year after their asylum or refugee status is granted, unless they are eligible for the immediate relative category and meet the criteria for such.

8. Are there any other benefits that come with obtaining a Green Card as an asylum or refugee applicant?


Yes. In addition to the benefits of obtaining permanent residency, such as the ability to work, travel, and potentially become a US citizen, asylum and refugee applicants can also receive certain social benefits, such as access to healthcare, housing assistance, and English language classes.

9. What are the qualifications for asylum and refugee status holders to become eligible for a Green Card?


To be eligible for a green card, a person must have been granted asylum or refugee status in the United States and have lived in the United States for at least one year. After being granted asylum or refugee status, the person must file Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status, along with supporting documents and fees. The person must also pass a medical examination and background check before they are eligible for a green card.

10. Can an individual obtain a Green Card if they have been denied asylum or refugee status?


No, an individual cannot obtain a Green Card if they have been denied asylum or refugee status. However, depending on the individual’s circumstances, they may be eligible for other forms of relief, such as cancellation of removal or voluntary departure.

11. What documents are required to complete the Green Card application process?


The documents required to complete the Green Card application process vary depending on individual circumstances, but generally include the following:

1. A completed Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status.

2. Proof of lawful entry into the United States.

3. A valid passport and other travel documents.

4. Evidence of eligibility for an immigrant visa, such as a job offer or family relationship.

5. Current passport-style photos.

6. Copies of any additional documents requested by US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).

7. Fees as applicable.

12. Is there any way to expedite the process of obtaining a Green Card for an asylum or refugee applicant?


No, there is no way to expedite the process of obtaining a Green Card for an asylum or refugee applicant. The application process is lengthy and complicated, and it can take several years for an applicant to receive a Green Card.

13. Is there any benefit to applying for a Green Card as soon as possible after being granted asylum or refugee status?


Yes, there can be benefits to applying for a Green Card as soon as possible after being granted asylum or refugee status. For example, those who apply for a Green Card soon after being granted asylum or refugee status may be able to start working in the United States and receive Social Security benefits sooner. Additionally, some applicants may be eligible for certain waivers of the Green Card application fees.

14. How much does it cost to apply for a Green Card as an asylum or refugee applicant?


The cost to apply for a Green Card as an asylum or refugee applicant is $0. When applying for a Green Card as an asylum or refugee applicant, the U.S. government waives all application fees due to the fact that these individuals are often seeking safety and protection from persecution in their home countries.

15. Are there any special restrictions on travel outside of the U.S. that apply to Green Card holders who were originally granted asylum or refugee status?


Yes, there are special restrictions on travel outside of the U.S. for Green Card holders who were originally granted asylum or refugee status. They are not allowed to travel to their home country for a period of five years after the granting of the asylum or refugee status. After the five-year period has passed, they may travel to their home country, but they are advised to contact U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) before doing so.

16. Is there any way for an individual with a criminal record to obtain a Green Card through asylum or refugee status?


Yes, individuals with a criminal record may be eligible to apply for asylum or refugee status and a Green Card. However, the applicant must show that they meet the criteria for asylum or refugee status, and that their criminal record does not disqualify them from being granted asylum or refugee status. Depending on the severity of the crime and other factors, a waiver may be available to allow an individual with a criminal record to obtain asylum or refugee status and a Green Card.

17. What are the consequences of not filing taxes as part of the Green Card application process for an individual holding asylum or refugee status?


If an individual holding asylum or refugee status does not file taxes as part of the Green Card application process, they could face consequences such as denial of their application, ineligibility for future applications, and potential deportation. Additionally, they may be required to pay back taxes and fees, as well as interest and penalties.

18. Is it possible to bring family members to the U.S. when applying for a Green Card through asylum or refugee status?


Yes, it is possible to bring family members to the U.S. when applying for a Green Card through asylum or refugee status. Those family members must be included in the application and must go through the same process as the applicant.

19. Are there any limits on how long an individual can stay in the U.S. while waiting for their Green Card application to be processed?


Yes, there are limits on how long an individual can stay in the U.S. while waiting for their Green Card application to be processed. Generally, individuals may stay up to six months while waiting for their application to be processed. However, any extension of this time period must be approved by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). Additionally, individuals must maintain their current immigration status (such as a valid visa) while awaiting the decision on their Green Card application.

20. How often must an individual renew their Green Card once it has been issued to them through their asylum or refugee status?


Once a Green Card holder has been issued a Green Card through asylum or refugee status, they must renew their card every ten years.