Green Card for Refugees and Asylees

1. What is a green card for refugees and asylees?


A green card for refugees and asylees is a form of identification issued by the United States government. It shows that the holder is a lawful permanent resident in the United States, and is allowed to live and work in the country without fear of deportation. This type of green card is usually issued to people who are fleeing from war, persecution, or natural disasters in their native country.

2. Who is eligible to apply for a green card as a refugee or asylee?


Refugees are individuals who are located outside of the United States and are unable to return to their home country due to fear of persecution based on race, religion, nationality, membership in a particular social group, or political opinion. Asylees are individuals who are already present in the United States and seek protection due to fear of persecution based on race, religion, nationality, membership in a particular social group, or political opinion. Both refugees and asylees can apply for a green card one year after being granted refugee or asylee status, respectively.

3. How do I apply for a green card as a refugee or asylee?


There are several ways you can apply for a green card as a refugee or asylee:

1. Apply through a U.S. embassy or consulate.

2. Apply directly at a U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) office in the United States.

3. Submit an application to the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) if you are already in the United States.

4. Self-petition for adjustment of status if you are already in the United States and eligible to adjust your status without having to go through an embassy or consulate.

When applying for a green card, you will need to submit all required documents, including evidence of your refugee or asylee status, proof of identity, and financial documents, among other things. It is also important to work with an experienced immigration attorney who can help you navigate the process and ensure that all paperwork is filed correctly and on time.

4. What documents do I need to submit with my application?


The documents that need to be submitted with your application will vary depending on the type of application you are submitting. Generally, the documents required include a signed copy of the application form, proof of identity, any relevant official documentation (such as a birth certificate or marriage certificate), and any other supporting documents specified by the submitting agency.

5. How long does it take to get a green card after applying?


It can take anywhere from several months to several years to get a green card after applying. The length of time depends on the category of the application, the applicant’s country of origin, and the individual circumstances of the applicant.

6. What is the difference between a refugee and an asylee?


A refugee is a person who has been forced to flee their home country due to a well-founded fear of persecution based on race, religion, nationality, political opinion, or membership in a particular social group. An asylee is someone who has already arrived in the United States and is granted protection from deportation and possible persecution in their home country. Refugees are often relocated to the U.S. from abroad by the U.S. government, while asylees must apply for asylum while already in the U.S.

7. How long can I stay in the United States with a green card?


A green card allows you to stay in the United States indefinitely, provided you comply with all U.S. immigration laws.

8. What rights and benefits do I have with a green card?


As a Green Card holder (permanent resident), you have the right to:

– Live and work permanently in the United States

– Receive certain federal benefits, such as Social Security and Medicare

– Apply for citizenship after five years (or three years if you are married to a US citizen)

– Travel outside of the US with the ability to return

– Bring family members to live with you in the US as permanent residents

– Buy property and pay in-state tuition fees at public colleges and universities

– Serve on a jury

– Have legal representation in civil court

9. How will I be notified of the outcome of my application?


Applicants will be notified of the outcome of their application by email.

10. Does having a green card guarantee me permanent residence in the United States?


No, having a green card does not guarantee permanent residence in the United States. A green card is evidence of an individual’s permanent resident status in the United States, but it does not guarantee that status. Permanent residence status may be revoked or terminated due to a variety of reasons, including failure to comply with the terms and conditions of the green card or criminal activity.

11. Can I travel abroad while waiting for my green card application to be approved?


No, you cannot travel outside of the U.S. while your green card application is pending. If you do, it could result in your application being denied and jeopardize your chances of obtaining a green card in the future.

12. Can I apply for citizenship after getting my green card?


Yes, you can apply for citizenship after obtaining a green card. After holding a permanent resident card for five years (or three years if you obtained it through marriage to a US citizen), you can apply for US citizenship. However, there are certain requirements to be eligible for naturalization, including passing a civics test, demonstrating basic English language proficiency, and providing proof of good moral character.

13. What if my application is denied?


If your application is denied, you should first review the rejection letter for any instructions. You may be able to appeal the decision or reapply for reconsideration. If you feel that the decision was made in error, you may also wish to consult an attorney.

14. Are there any fees associated with applying for a green card?


Yes, there are several fees associated with applying for a green card. These include an application fee for the Form I-485, an $85 biometrics fee, and a $220 fee for the Form I-765 if applicable. In certain cases, a fee for the Form I-131 may also be required.

15. Can I apply to bring family members to the United States under my green card?


Yes, you can. As a green card holder, you may petition for certain family members to join you in the United States as permanent residents. Eligible family members include your spouse, unmarried children under the age of 21, and your parents.

16. Do I need to attend an interview before receiving my green card?


If you are applying for a green card based on family or employment, you will likely need to attend an interview at a U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) office. During the interview, a USCIS officer will ask questions related to your application and immigration status. If you are applying for a green card based on other categories such as refugee or asylum status, you may not need to attend an interview.

17. How do I renew my green card if it expires?


You can renew your green card by filing Form I-90, Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card. This form must be filed with the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). The form and filing fee must be submitted to the USCIS before your green card expires.

18. Do I need to take any tests before getting my green card?


Yes, you must pass a medical exam and a background check before you can receive a green card. You may also be asked to take certain language or civics tests as part of the process.

19. Can I work in the United States with a green card?


Yes, you can work in the United States with a green card. A green card, or permanent resident card, allows you to live and work in the United States on a permanent basis. The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) outlines the eligibility requirements for obtaining a green card. Generally, applicants must be sponsored by an employer or family member in the United States, have a certain amount of specialized work experience, or meet certain other criteria.

20. Is there any assistance available to help me with my application?


Yes. If you need help understanding the application process or with completing the application, you can contact your local unemployment office to get more information on available resources.