1. What family members of asylees and refugees are eligible to receive a green card?
The family members of asylees and refugees who are eligible to receive a green card include their spouse, unmarried children under the age of 21, and parents (if the asylee or refugee is over the age of 21).
2. How do family members of asylees and refugees apply for a green card?
Family members of asylees and refugees may apply for a green card by filing Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status. This form can be obtained from U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). Applicants must include evidence of their relationship to the asylee or refugee, such as marriage or birth certificates. Applicants must also provide proof that the asylee or refugee has been granted asylum or refugee status. In addition, applicants must also submit copies of their passports, two passport-style photographs, and a completed medical examination form.
3. How long does the application process take for family members of asylees and refugees to receive a green card?
The application process for family members of asylees and refugees to receive a green card typically takes between six months and one year.
4. What requirements must family members of asylees and refugees meet in order to be eligible for a green card?
In order to be eligible for a green card, family members of asylees and refugees must prove that the asylee or refugee is a principal beneficiary of asylum or refugee status and is either a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident, or has received asylum or refugee status. They must also provide proof that they are the spouse, child, parent, or unmarried son or daughter of the asylee or refugee. Additionally, family members of refugees must have been admitted to the U.S. as refugees and must have been physically present in the U.S. for at least 1 year after being admitted as a refugee.
5. Are there any special fees or costs associated with applying for a green card for the family members of asylees and refugees?
There are no fees associated with applying for a green card for the family members of asylees and refugees. The filing fee is waived, and there is no cost to submit the required forms. However, applicants may be required to pay additional fees for biometrics, translations, and other services or assessments.
6. Does the US government recognize any special circumstances which might make it easier for a family member of an asylee or refugee to receive a green card?
Yes, the US government does recognize special circumstances which might make it easier for a family member of an asylee or refugee to receive a green card. Under the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA), certain family members of an asylee or refugee can apply for a green card if they meet certain requirements. To qualify, you must be the spouse or unmarried child under 21 years of age of an individual who has been granted asylum or refugee status. You must also demonstrate that you were included in the asylee or refugee’s application to immigrate to the United States, and that you are otherwise eligible for a green card.
7. How can family members of asylees and refugees prepare for the interview process when applying for a green card?
Family members of asylees and refugees can prepare for the interview process by familiarizing themselves with the process, gathering all the necessary documents, being prepared to answer questions about their relationship to the asylee or refugee, and having a valid passport and other forms of identification. Additionally, it’s important to remember that the interview is an opportunity to explain your situation in detail, so family members should come prepared with any evidence that can support their case. It is also helpful to practice answering common questions out loud before the interview. Lastly, it’s important to remain calm and polite during the interview.
8. Does the US government grant priority to family members of asylees and refugees when considering their green card applications?
No, the US government does not grant any priority to family members of asylees and refugees when considering their green card applications. However, certain family members may be able to receive derivative asylum status or a derivative refugee status, which can expedite their path to permanent residency in the US.
9. Does the US government offer any assistance to family members of asylees and refugees while they wait for their green card applications to be processed?
Yes, the US government offers assistance through programs such as Refugee Cash Assistance and Refugee Medical Assistance. These programs can provide financial and medical assistance to eligible refugees and asylees.
10. Are there any restrictions on employment that family members of asylees and refugees must be aware of when they receive a green card?
Yes. Family members of asylees and refugees must be aware of any restrictions on employment that are imposed by the country from which they fled. Depending on the individual’s country of origin, they may be subject to restrictions regarding the types of jobs they can take or certain employers they cannot work for. Additionally, any family member who receives a green card must meet all eligibility requirements and comply with all applicable laws and regulations governing employment in the United States.
11. Is there any way for the family members of asylees and refugees to receive permanent residence status sooner than normal if they have certain skills or qualifications?
Yes, there are a few ways for family members of asylees and refugees to receive permanent residence status sooner than normal. In certain cases, family members may be eligible for a “green card” through the family reunification process. Additionally, those with certain skills or qualifications may be eligible for employment-based or special immigrant visas.
12. What type of documents will family members of asylees and refugees need to provide when applying for a green card?
Family members of asylees and refugees will need to provide documents that prove their relationship to the asylee or refugee, such as a birth certificate, marriage certificate, or other documents proving legal guardianship. They will also need to provide identity documents such as a passport or driver’s license and other required forms.
13. What rights do family members of asylees and refugees have once they receive a green card?
Once a family member of an asylee or refugee receives a green card, they have the same rights as any other lawful permanent resident in the United States. This includes the right to work, receive Social Security benefits, and travel in and out of the country (with certain restrictions). They are also eligible to apply for U.S. citizenship after five years.
14. Are there any special benefits or programs available to family members of asylees and refugees who receive a green card?
Yes, there are special benefits and programs available to family members of asylees and refugees who receive a green card. Depending on their immigration status, family members may be eligible for certain benefits such as health insurance, food assistance, cash assistance, and educational assistance. Additionally, some states offer additional benefits such as driver’s license and in-state tuition.
15. How does the US government protect the rights of family members of asylees and refugees after they receive a green card?
The US government protects the rights of family members of asylees and refugees after they receive a green card by granting them permanent residency status, allowing them access to federally funded benefits, and providing protection from deportation. Family members of asylees and refugees are also eligible for certain employment benefits, such as Social Security, Medicare, and Medicaid. Additionally, the US government provides assistance to help family members of asylees and refugees adjust to life in the United States, such as language classes and job search assistance.
16. What is the process for renewing a green card that was granted to family members of asylees and refugees?
To renew a green card that was granted to family members of asylees and refugees, the family member must submit Form I-90 to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). The form must be accompanied with a valid passport or birth certificate and two passport-style photos. If the Green Card holder is under the age of 14, their parents or guardians can sign the form on their behalf. USCIS may also require additional evidence or documentation to prove identity and/or eligibility for renewal.
17. Are there any restrictions on traveling outside the United States that apply to family members of asylees and refugees who have received a green card?
Yes, there are certain restrictions that may apply to family members of asylees and refugees who have received a green card. Depending on the family member’s immigration history, they may be required to obtain advance permission from the US Department of Homeland Security before traveling outside of the US. This process is known as applying for advance parole. Additionally, family members may also be required to obtain a US re-entry permit prior to departing the US.
18. Can family members of asylees and refugees become US citizens after obtaining a green card?
Yes, family members of asylees and refugees can become U.S. citizens after obtaining a green card. Generally, they must wait five years from the date they received their green card before they can apply for U.S. citizenship. They must also meet other requirements, such as being able to pass a basic civics test and showing good moral character.
19. What is the process for replacing a lost or stolen green card that was issued to family members of an asylee or refugee?
In order to replace a lost or stolen green card issued to family members of an asylee or refugee, they must file Form I-90, Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card. This form should be filed with USCIS and accompanied by the applicable filing fees. In some cases, a biometrics appointment may also be required.
20. Are there any limitations placed on bringing additional family members into the United States once one member has received a green card based on their status as an asylee or refugee?
Yes, there are certain limitations placed on bringing additional family members into the United States once one member has received a green card based on their status as an asylee or refugee. Generally speaking, the asylee or refugee may petition for certain family members to come to the United States. Specifically, the asylee or refugee may petition for their spouse and unmarried children under 21. In certain cases, other family members may also be eligible for consideration. However, it is important to speak with an immigration attorney in order to determine eligibility for a specific situation.