1. What is the purpose of Form I-590?

Form I-590 is an application for a Certificate of Citizenship or a Report of Birth Abroad, which is used to prove the citizenship of an individual who was born abroad and who has not yet obtained a Certificate of Citizenship or a U.S. passport. The form is used to obtain proof of U.S. citizenship, which may be necessary for a variety of purposes, including obtaining official identification documents, such as a driver’s license, and applying for certain government benefits.

2. Who is eligible to apply for an immigrant visa for refugees?

Legal permanent residents, refugees, asylees, Cuban/Haitian entrants, Amerasians, victims of human trafficking, special immigrants from Iraq or Afghanistan, and certain family members of U.S. citizens and permanent residents can all apply for an immigrant visa for refugees.

3. What documents must be submitted with Form I-590?

When filing Form I-590, applicants must submit the following documents:

1. A valid passport.
2. Proof of U.S. citizenship, such as a birth certificate or certificate of naturalization.
3. Proof of identity, such as a driver’s license or government-issued identification card.
4. Two passport-style photos.
5. Evidence of lawful permanent residence status, if applicable.
6. Additional documents as required by the specific category for which the applicant is applying.

4. How do I complete Form I-590?

Form I-590 must be completed and submitted in person to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services along with the required fee and supporting documents. The form includes sections to list personal information, such as name, date of birth, country of birth, and address. The form also requires details about any prior immigration status, and must be accompanied by two passport photos taken within the last 30 days. The fee is currently $445 USD, which is subject to change based on inflation.

5. What is the filing fee for Form I-590?

The filing fee for Form I-590 is $445.

6. What is the deadline for submitting a Form I-590 application?

The deadline for submitting Form I-590, Application for Registration or Recognition of Citizenship, is the date specified on the form instructions.

7. How long does it take to process a Form I-590 application?

The processing time for Form I-590 can vary depending on the USCIS office where you submit your application. Generally, it can take anywhere from one to three months for the USCIS to process the form. You can also check the USCIS processing times website to get an estimated timeline for your application.

8. Are there any advantages to filing Form I-590 early?

Yes, there are several advantages to filing Form I-590 early. First, filing early can help ensure that your application is received on time and processed quickly. Second, you may be able to receive a decision from USCIS sooner than if you wait until the last minute to submit a filing. Third, if your application is approved early, you may be able to take advantage of any benefits or programs available to permanent resident aliens sooner. Finally, filing early can help protect against any possible delays due to increases in processing times.

9. What are the eligibility requirements for refugee status?

In order to be eligible for refugee status, an individual must demonstrate that they are unable or unwilling to return to their home country due to a well-founded fear of persecution based on their race, religion, nationality, membership in a particular social group, or political opinion. The individual must also demonstrate that they are outside of their country of nationality and are unable or unwilling to avail themselves of the protection of that country due to the fear of persecution.

10. Can my family members be included on my Form I-590 application?

Yes, your family members may be included on your Form I-590 application, but they must all meet the required eligibility criteria for a Special Immigrant Visa.

11. How do I demonstrate that I qualify as a refugee?

In order to demonstrate that you qualify as a refugee, you must provide evidence of a well-founded fear of persecution based on your race, religion, nationality, political opinion, or membership in a particular social group. This can include documents such as birth certificates, passports, and other identity documents; evidence of past or ongoing persecution in your country; witness testimonies from people familiar with your situation; and any other evidence that supports your claim.

12. What is the medical examination requirement for refugees applying on Form I-590?

The medical examination requirement for refugees applying on Form I-590 is that they must have a complete medical examination performed by a designated Civil Surgeon and must provide evidence of immunizations as set forth by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. The medical examination must include tests for certain communicable diseases and must be completed within one year before submitting Form I-590.

13. Are there any special rules applicable to refugees who are minors?

Yes, there are special rules applicable to refugees who are minors. The U.N. Convention on the Rights of the Child recognizes that all persons under 18 years old have specific rights and protections, including the right of refugees to non-discrimination, family reunification, and access to health care, education, and other essential services. In addition, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security has issued rules specifically addressing the process for adjudicating asylum applications by unaccompanied alien children (UACs). These rules include provisions for UACs to be released from custody, for their legal representatives to be appointed to assist them in proceedings, and for special consideration to be given to their age and maturity level when evaluating their claims.

14. How is the immigrant visa for refugees issued and what documents must be presented at the time of issuance?

The immigrant visa for refugees is issued by the U.S. Department of State and requires a valid passport, a Form I-94 Arrival/Departure Record, a medical examination, and an Affidavit of Support (if applicable). The refugee must also provide evidence of refugee status, including a letter from the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) or a letter from the U.S. Department of State.

15. What are my rights and responsibilities as a refugee with an immigrant visa?

As a refugee with an immigrant visa, you have the right to travel, live, and work in the United States. You are also entitled to receive any federally funded benefits, such as healthcare or education. You have the responsibility to follow all United States laws and regulations and to apply for any necessary permits or visas in order to stay legally in the country. Additionally, you must register with the Department of Homeland Security and keep your registration up-to-date. Finally, you may be required to report any changes in your circumstances to the US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).

16. Can I travel outside the U.S. after receiving an immigrant visa?

Yes, you can travel outside the U.S. after receiving an immigrant visa. However, it is important to check the expiration date of your visa prior to traveling. Additionally, you must have a valid passport and the necessary documents required to return to the U.S. after your trip.

17. What form do I need in order to obtain a Social Security Number (SSN)?

In order to obtain a Social Security Number (SSN), you must fill out form SS-5, Application for a Social Security Card. This form can be obtained from the Social Security Administration website (www.ssa.gov) or at any local Social Security office.

18. When can I become a permanent resident of the U.S.?

You can become a permanent resident of the U.S. if you are eligible to receive a green card, which is the document that grants an individual legal permanent residence in the United States. To be eligible for a green card, you must meet certain criteria such as having a family member who is a U.S. citizen or Lawful Permanent Resident (LPR); having a job offer from an employer in the U.S.; participating in a U.S. government-approved refugee or asylum program or being granted a special category of visas such as those for victims of human trafficking and certain other crimes. You can also enter a diversity visa lottery program for people from countries with low rates of immigration to the U.S., as well as apply for certain other types of visas.

19. How can I become a naturalized U.S. citizen after being granted an Immigrant Visa for Refugees (Form I-590)?

In order to become a naturalized U.S. citizen after being granted an Immigrant Visa for Refugees (Form I-590), you must file Form N-400, Application for Naturalization, and attend the naturalization interview. You must also meet all other eligibility requirements to become a U.S. citizen, including having been a permanent resident for at least 5 years and having lived in the U.S. for at least 3 months prior to applying for naturalization. Additionally, you must demonstrate good moral character, have an understanding of the English language and U.S. government and history, and take the Oath of Allegiance during a naturalization ceremony.

20. Can I obtain a work permit and/or employment authorization after being granted an Immigrant Visa for Refugees (Form I-590)?

No, you cannot obtain a work permit or employment authorization after being granted an Immigrant Visa for Refugees (Form I-590). This form is used to apply for permanent residence in the United States, which is different than obtaining a work permit. For more information on applying for a work permit, please visit the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) website.