The process of applying for a refugee or asylee adjustment of status allows individuals who were granted refugee or asylum status to apply for lawful permanent residency (a Green Card) in the United States. After being granted refugee or asylee status, individuals must wait one year before they are eligible to apply for adjustment of status. The application process begins with filing Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status, with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). The applicant must demonstrate that they are currently in the U.S. and continue to meet the eligibility requirements for refugee or asylee status, including that they have not engaged in any activities that would render them ineligible for permanent residency.
Along with Form I-485, applicants must submit supporting documentation, such as their approval notice for refugee or asylum status, a copy of their passport or identity documents, and any records of their time in the U.S. Applicants may also need to provide evidence of their continued good moral character and that they have not violated any immigration laws. During the adjustment process, applicants may also undergo a background check, medical examination, and fingerprinting to ensure their eligibility for permanent residency. The process also involves proving that the applicant has not committed any criminal acts or activities that would disqualify them from receiving a Green Card.
After the application is reviewed and approved, the refugee or asylee applicant will receive their Green Card and become a lawful permanent resident of the United States. It is important to note that the adjustment of status process can take several months, and delays are common, depending on the volume of applications being processed. Additionally, individuals granted asylum or refugee status should maintain their status until the adjustment process is complete. If you are a refugee or asylee seeking to adjust your status, it is recommended to seek the guidance of an experienced immigration attorney to ensure that your application is completed correctly and promptly, helping to avoid any unnecessary delays or complications.
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