Can a Refugee Receive a Green Card?
The refugee program allows many vulnerable people who face persecution at home to come to the United States. But many refugees hope to stay indefinitely, and a green card might be the right choice for you. As a lawful permanent resident (LPR), you can stay in the U.S. and work indefinitely. Although a green card is not citizenship, it does provide significant protection. Call Empowerment Legal, PLLC, if you have questions as a refugee.
Requirements for a Green Card
Any refugee seeking a green card must meet certain requirements:
- Duration of stay. You must be living in the U.S. for at least one year after being granted refugee status before you can receive a green card.
- Application to USCIS. Refugees must complete and submit Form I-485 to USCIS.
- Supporting documents. Applicants will also need to prove their refugee status and provide other supporting documents, such as birth certificate and criminal records (if any).
- Attend a medical examination, if required.
- Maintaining status. You will need to maintain refugee status to be considered for a green card. This is a lengthy process.
If you are unsure of whether you qualify, contact Empowerment Legal. A green card is an important immigration benefit, and it is not easy in this current climate to obtain one. Our firm can review the facts of your case to determine when to apply.
We Can Keep You On Track
We help refugees stay on course for receiving a green card. For example, if you hope to travel outside the U.S., you will need a Refugee Travel Document so that you can re-enter the U.S. Traveling without one can result in denial of admission and ultimately the loss of your refugee status.
Furthermore, you should not travel back to the country you fled from. Doing so can raise questions about whether you really fear persecution. Some refugees need to return home to attend the funeral of a loved one or to attend to pressing business. Work with an attorney before booking your ticket.
We can also help with renewing your Employment Authorization Document so that you are working legally in the U.S. Any unlawful employment can end up impeding your ability to obtain a green card. In fact, you might end up deported to a third country if you violate the laws.
Call Empowerment Legal Today
Our firm is dedicated to protecting immigrants and helping them achieve their goals, whether that is remaining in the U.S. on some other status or by obtaining a green card. We provide timely, accurate legal advice to ensure our clients are following all immigration laws.
This is a stressful time for refugees and asylees in the United States. Immigration law changes constantly, and any slip up could result in loss of legal protections and possible deportation. Our firm has your back. We guide our clients through the immigration process and help them identify any stumbling blocks ahead of time. Contact Empowerment Legal, LLC to speak with a Jacksonville refugee and asylum lawyer for a private consultation.
Source:
uscis.gov/humanitarian/refugees-and-asylum/refugees