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

In order to apply for a Refugee or Asylee Green Card in Rhode Island, applicants must meet the following eligibility criteria:

1. The applicant must be a refugee or asylee.

2. The applicant must have been physically present in the United States for at least one year after being granted refugee or asylee status.

3. The applicant must be admissible to the United States under all applicable laws.

4. The applicant must not have any disqualifying criminal or security-related grounds of inadmissibility.

5. The applicant must be able to demonstrate that he or she is not likely to become a public charge.

2. What refugee and asylee resettlement programs exist in Rhode Island?

In Rhode Island, programs exist to support refugees and asylees with their resettlement. These programs are offered through the Rhode Island Office of Refugee Resettlement (ORR) and include support for housing, education, employment, health care, and more. The ORR works with local partners to provide services such as job placement, language classes, and social services. The ORR also works with community organizations that offer support for refugee and asylee resettlement needs. These organizations include the International Institute of Rhode Island, Refugee and Immigrant Alliance of Rhode Island (RIARI), Progreso Latino, and the International Institute of Rhode Island’s Refugee and Asylee Program (RIARAP).

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

Yes, refugees and asylees applying for a Green Card in Rhode Island may be eligible for certain benefits and services such as Medicaid coverage, Refugee Cash Assistance (RCA), Refugee Medical Assistance (RMA), Refugee Education Assistance (REA) and other services. Additionally, applicants may be eligible for waivers of certain filing fees associated with submitting applications to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).

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

To apply for a Refugee or Asylee Green Card in Rhode Island, an individual must first be approved for Refugee or Asylum status by the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). Once the individual has been approved, they can then submit Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status, to the USCIS. Supporting documents, such as proof of identity and a medical examination may also be required. The USCIS may request an interview with the applicant before making a final decision on their application.

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

The timeline for obtaining a Refugee or Asylee Green Card in Rhode Island can vary depending on the individual’s circumstances. Generally, it may take anywhere from 6-12 months to receive the green card.

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

The processing fee for a Refugee/Asylee Green Card in Rhode Island is $715. This fee includes the $85 biometrics fee and the $630 application fee.

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

Yes, there is an interview process for refugees and asylees seeking a Green Card in Rhode Island. The process involves submitting an application and meeting with a US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) officer for an in-person interview. During the interview, the USCIS officer will ask questions about the applicant’s background, including but not limited to, their country of origin, family background, education history, and work experience. The officer will also review the application and supporting documents to verify the applicant’s identity and eligibility for a Green Card.

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

Yes, refugees and asylees seeking Green Cards in Rhode Island may face certain restrictions. Refugees and asylees must meet certain criteria, such as having entered the US before their current immigration status expired, being physically present in the US for at least one year prior to applying for a Green Card, and not having been convicted of certain criminal offenses. Additionally, refugees and asylees may be subject to the same numerical limitations that apply to other non-immigrant visa categories.

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

In Rhode Island, refugees and asylees may be able to access free language assistance services through the RI Office of Refugee Resettlement and the Immigrant Legal Advocacy Project. The Immigrant Legal Advocacy Project (ILAP) provides free and low-cost legal services to immigrants, including interpretation, translation, and referrals. ILAP also provides assistance in filling out forms for immigration benefits like green cards. Additionally, refugees and asylees can access free interpretation and translation services through various community-based organizations in the state, such as Progreso Latino.

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

The types of evidence that can be used to prove eligibility for a Refugee or Asylee Green Card in Rhode Island include: a copy of a completed Form I-94, travel documents, passport, birth certificate, evidence of residence or presence in the United States, evidence of employment, and any other relevant documents.

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

Yes. Refugees and asylees with a Green Card issued in Rhode Island are subject to the same travel restrictions as other permanent residents of the United States. These include a requirement to present a valid Green Card when entering the United States after traveling abroad. Additionally, refugees and asylees may not be allowed to travel to certain countries, depending on the country’s laws and regulations. It is best to check with the country’s embassy before attempting to travel to ensure that the person will be allowed entry.

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

Refugees and asylees with a Green Card issued in Rhode Island can adjust their status to become U.S. citizens by meeting the eligibility requirements for naturalization and submitting an Application for Naturalization (Form N-400). Eligibility requirements include being at least 18 years of age, having permanent residence in the United States for at least 5 years, having good moral character, and being able to pass a test on U.S. history and civics. Once all the requirements are met, the applicant must attend an interview with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) and take the Oath of Allegiance to become a U.S. Citizen.

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

Yes, family members of refugees and asylees can obtain Green Cards through the same process in Rhode Island. Family members of refugees and asylees are eligible to apply for a Green Card through the adjustment of status or consular processing.

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

Yes, refugees and asylees with Green Cards issued in Rhode Island can benefit from the programs and services offered by the Rhode Island Office of Refugee Resettlement. This includes access to English classes, job readiness and employment assistance, and health care and nutrition services. Additionally, refugees may be eligible for state programs that provide cash assistance, medical assistance, job training, and education.

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

In order to obtain a Refugee or Asylee Green Card in Rhode Island, applicants must show financial resources to support themselves and any dependents. The applicant must be able to demonstrate that they will not be relying on public benefits, such as welfare, during their first five years in the U.S. Applicants must also prove that they have sufficient income or resources to cover their living expenses. Sources of income could include wages, self-employment, investments, financial assistance from family or friends, and public assistance programs such as Social Security. If required, applicants can also submit an Affidavit of Support form from a sponsor who is willing to take financial responsibility for them.

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

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

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

Yes. Refugees and asylees with Green Cards issued in Rhode Island are eligible to access public benefits and services.

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

Yes, unaccompanied minors seeking Refugee or Asylee Green Cards in Rhode Island should be aware that they are not eligible for adjustment of status if they entered the United States without a valid immigrant visa or other travel document. Additionally, those applicants may need to obtain special permission from a judge to apply for the green card. The Immigrant Legal Resource Center (ILRC) has more information on the special considerations for unaccompanied minors seeking Refugee or Asylee Green Cards in Rhode Island.

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

Yes. The Refugee and Asylee Green Card Support Program in Rhode Island provides additional resources to refugees and asylees with Green Cards issued in Rhode Island. This program offers case management services, financial assistance, job search assistance, referrals to other community services, and more.

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

Yes. The Rhode Island Office of Refugee Resettlement (RIORR) provides assistance to refugees and asylees, including helping them apply for a Green Card. RIORR also provides access to other resources and services, such as job placement, English language classes, and medical services. They can be contacted at 401-277-2230 or online at https://www.ri.gov/humanservices/refugee/.