Refugee and Asylee Green Cards in Arizona

1. What are the eligibility requirements to apply for a Refugee or Asylee Green Card in Arizona?

In order to apply for a Refugee or Asylee Green Card in Arizona, the applicant must have been granted refugee or asylum status by the US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). The applicant must also have been physically present in the US for at least one year and must have maintained refugee or asylee status during this time. Additionally, the applicant must not have abandoned his or her status by leaving the US or by submitting an application to adjust their status to that of a permanent resident. The applicant must also be admissible to the US and must not have any grounds of inadmissibility.

2. What refugee and asylee resettlement programs exist in Arizona?

In Arizona, refugee and asylee resettlement programs are administered by a variety of organizations, including the International Rescue Committee (IRC), Lutheran Social Services of the Southwest (LSS), Catholic Charities Community Services (CCCS), and Refuge Point. These organizations provide a variety of services, such as housing assistance, job placement, education and English language classes, health care access, and cultural orientation. In addition, the US Department of State operates a refugee resettlement program in Arizona that provides assistance to refugees who have been resettled in the state.

3. Are there any special considerations for refugees and asylees applying for a Green Card in Arizona?

Yes, refugees and asylees applying for a Green Card in Arizona are eligible for several special considerations. These include access to certain forms of financial assistance, the ability to apply for a Green Card without an interview, and eligibility for special immigration benefits such as refugee adjustment. Additionally, refugees and asylees may be eligible for other humanitarian programs such as Temporary Protected Status (TPS) and deferred action. It is important to note that each individual’s case is unique and that the eligibility for these special considerations will depend on individual factors and circumstances.

4. How does one apply for a Refugee or Asylee Green Card in Arizona?

The process for applying for a Refugee or Asylee Green Card in Arizona is the same as it is for anywhere else in the United States. Individuals must complete and submit Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status, along with all required supporting documents to the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). Applicants should also pay the filing fee and any applicable biometrics fees. Approved refugees and asylees may be able to file for their green card from within the state.

5. How long does it take to get a Refugee or Asylee Green Card in Arizona?

The timeframe for approval of a Refugee or Asylee Green Card in Arizona depends on the individual’s circumstances. Generally, it is estimated that it can take anywhere from 2 to 4 months for a Refugee to receive a Green Card once they have submitted all the required documents. For Asylees, the process may take longer, as there are additional steps involved in the application process and more paperwork to submit.

6. What are the processing fees associated with getting a Refugee or Asylee Green Card in Arizona?

The processing fees for getting a Refugee or Asylee Green Card in Arizona are the same as the fees for applying for a green card through any other means: the application fee is $1,225, the biometrics fee is $85, and the fee for the medical exam is $275.

7. Is there an interview process for refugees and asylees seeking a Green Card in Arizona?

Yes, there is an interview process for refugees and asylees seeking a Green Card in Arizona. The applicant must complete Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status, and submit it to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). The applicant will then be scheduled for an interview at the USCIS office in Phoenix, AZ. During the interview, the applicant will be asked questions about their background and reasons for seeking U.S. permanent residence. The interview is an important part of the process and it is important to answer questions truthfully and completely.

8. Are there any restrictions on refugees or asylees seeking Green Cards in Arizona?

Yes, there are some restrictions on refugees and asylees seeking Green Cards in Arizona. Most notably, only refugees who have been in the United States for at least one year and asylees who have been in the United States for at least two years can apply for a Green Card. Additionally, those who have been convicted of a serious crime or are considered a security risk are ineligible to apply for a Green Card.

9. What language assistance is available for refugees and asylees applying for a Green Card in Arizona?

Language assistance is available for refugees and asylees applying for a Green Card in Arizona through the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). USCIS provides language services free of charge, such as interpreter services, language guides, and foreign language interviews. Additionally, Arizona has a network of nonprofit organizations that offer translations services in multiple languages.

10. What types of evidence can be used to prove eligibility for a Refugee or Asylee Green Card in Arizona?

Evidence of eligibility for a Refugee or Asylee Green Card in Arizona can include:
-A copy of the Form I-983, Decision on Applicant’s Eligibility for Asylum or Withholding of Removal, signed by an immigration officer.
-A copy of the Form I-589, Application for Asylum and Withholding of Removal, with an endorsement from the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).
-Proof of identity documents such as a passport, birth certificate, or national identification card.
-Evidence of residence in the United States, such as rent receipts, utility bills, or bank statements.
-A statement from a refugee resettlement agency or other official confirming that the applicant is a refugee.
-Documentation showing the applicant’s efforts to obtain employment in the United States.
-Documentation showing the applicant’s efforts to learn English.
-Proof of contact information for family members residing in the United States.

11. Are there any restrictions on travel for refugees and asylees with a Green Card issued in Arizona?

Yes, there are restrictions on travel for refugees and asylees with a Green Card issued in Arizona. All refugees and asylees are required to register with the U.S. Department of State before traveling abroad. This includes any trips outside the United States of more than 30 days in duration. Asylees may also be required to obtain permission from the DHS before traveling abroad. These restrictions are in place to ensure that refugees and asylees are in compliance with the terms of their refugee or asylum status. For more information, you should consult with a qualified immigration attorney.

12. How can refugees and asylees with a Green Card issued in Arizona adjust their status to become U.S. Citizens?

Refugees and asylees with a Green Card issued in Arizona can adjust their status to become U.S. Citizens by applying for naturalization. In order to do so, they must:

1. Have been a Permanent Resident for at least 5 years (or 3 years if married to a US Citizen)
2. Be 18 years or older
3. Have resided continuously in the US for at least 5 years (or 3 years if married to a US Citizen)
4. Have no criminal history
5. Have good moral character
6. Demonstrate knowledge of US history and civics
7. Be able to read, write, and speak basic English
8. Submit Form N-400, Application for Naturalization

Once approved, the refugee or asylee can take the Oath of Allegiance and become a U.S. Citizen.

13. Can family members of refugees and asylees obtain Green Cards through the same process in Arizona?

Yes. Family members of refugees and asylees can obtain Green Cards through the same process in Arizona as in other states. The process involves filing Form I-485, which is used to adjust an immigrant’s status to become a lawful permanent resident of the United States.

14. Are there any additional benefits available to refugees and asylees with Green Cards issued in Arizona?

Yes, there are additional benefits available to refugees and asylees with Green Cards issued in Arizona. These include access to public health insurance such as Medicaid and AHCCCS, access to the Arizona Refugee Resettlement Program, educational assistance for refugees, and employment assistance. Additionally, refugees and asylees may be eligible for housing assistance, food benefits, and energy assistance.

15. What are the financial requirements necessary to obtain a Refugee or Asylee Green Card in Arizona?

In order to obtain a Refugee or Asylee Green Card in Arizona, applicants must demonstrate the following financial requirements:

1. Proof of sufficient financial resources to cover the cost of living and support for the applicant and family members;
2. Evidence of income or assets sufficient to meet the poverty guidelines set by the United States Department of Health and Human Services;
3. A financial affidavit of support from a sponsor who meets the income requirements for sponsorship and is willing to accept legal responsibility for the applicant;
4. Employment authorization documents, if applicable; and
5. Documentation that the applicant is eligible for the Refugee Cash Assistance program or Supplemental Security Income (SSI).

16. Are refugees and asylees with Green Cards issued in Arizona eligible to work in the U.S.?

Yes, refugees and asylees with Green Cards issued in Arizona are eligible to work in the U.S.

17. Are refugees and asylees with Green Cards issued in Arizona eligible to access public benefits and services?

Yes, refugees and asylees with Green Cards issued in Arizona are eligible to access public benefits and services in the state.

18. Are there any special considerations for unaccompanied minors seeking Refugee or Asylee Green Cards in Arizona?

Yes, if the minor is under the age of 18 and is seeking refugee or asylee status, then his/her case is handled as a “special consideration” case. The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) will assign a social worker to the minor and that worker will be responsible for the minor’s welfare and will determine if they are eligible for refugee or asylee status. The social worker will also be responsible for helping the minor navigate the process of obtaining a green card.

19. Is there any additional support available to refugees and asylees with Green Cards issued in Arizona?

Yes, there is additional support available to refugees and asylees with Green Cards issued in Arizona. In addition to federal assistance, such as Medicaid, Food Stamps, and cash assistance, refugees and asylees can access services from local resettlement agencies and non-profits. These agencies provide a variety of services, including English language classes, job training, housing assistance, and legal services. Additionally, many communities in Arizona have formed refugee support networks to provide additional resources to refugees and asylees.

20. Are there any resources available to help refugees and asylees apply for a Green Card in Arizona?

Yes, there are a variety of resources available to help refugees and asylees apply for a Green Card in Arizona. The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has an online tool called “Green Card for Refugees and Asylees” which provides information about the requirements, eligibility criteria, and application process for obtaining a Green Card. Additionally, the International Rescue Committee (IRC) Arizona offers free legal services to refugees and asylees seeking to apply for a Green Card. The Florence Immigrant & Refugee Rights Project provides pro bono legal services for people in immigration proceedings, including those seeking to obtain a Green Card. Finally, the Refugee Resettlement Program in Arizona is a community-based organization that provides assistance with the application process for refugees and asylees who wish to apply for a Green Card.