U.S. immigration law allows foreign nationals to obtain refugee status. A person may be recognized as a refugee if it is dangerous for them to return to their home country due to persecution or the potential for persecution based on race, nationality, religion, or political beliefs.
Refugee status in the U.S. allows an individual to legally stay in the country for one year, receive medical care, and qualify for social support. After one year of residence in the U.S. (and after renouncing their original passport), a person with refugee status can apply for permanent resident status, and subsequently, U.S. citizenship.
What opportunities does refugee status provide?
- The opportunity to legally stay in the United States for one year, and then apply for permanent residency.
- The right to medical assistance.
- The right to work.
- The right to financial assistance.
- The ability to bring immediate family members (spouse and unmarried children under 21 years old) to the United States.
Who can obtain refugee status?
To qualify for refugee status in the United States, a foreign national must meet several criteria:
- They are subjected to persecution based on race, religion, nationality, political opinion, or membership in a particular social group.
- They have no intention of settling in another country.
- They must be outside the territory of the United States.
- They must not have any entry bans to the United States.
- They must not have a criminal record for serious offenses in the past.
- They must not have any diseases that could pose a threat to public health.
Schedule a Consultation with an Attorney
The process of obtaining refugee status in the U.S. has many nuances and complexities, and it is essential to gather the correct and comprehensive set of documents. Attorney Matthew Morley can assist with this. You can take advantage of a one-time consultation or full assistance throughout the process until obtaining U.S. permanent resident status.