Legal Permanent Resident Status
A person who has received official permission to permanently reside and work in the United States is a lawful permanent resident (holder of a green card ). The proof of this status is the Permanent Resident Card issued to this person. In addition, obtaining a green card gives you the opportunity to apply for US citizenship.
Refugees must apply for a green card after 1 year from the date of arrival in the United States and be physically in the country at the time of application.
To apply for Lawful Permanent Resident Status and receive a Permanent Resident Card, complete Form I-485, Petition for Permanent Resident Status, or Change of Status. Individuals asylum seekers must pay a certain amount to apply for I-485. However, refugees will not be charged this amount for filing Form I-485. Community organizations, including your local resettlement office, can help you with this process.
If you are a refugee, you must by law apply for lawful permanent resident status after a year of residence in the United States for refugee status.
Application for Legal Permanent Resident Status
Complete Form I-485, Permanent Resident Registration or Change of Immigration Status. It is worth noting that refugees do not have to pay for filing Form I-485 and for biometric services.
You are eligible to apply if you:
If you are an asylum seeker, you have the right to apply for lawful permanent resident status one year after you were granted asylum, provided that you have been in the United States at all times without interruption. Moreover, you are not required to request this status.
Application for Legal Permanent Resident Status
Complete Form I-485, Permanent Resident Registration or Change of Immigration Status. In this case, you must pay a certain amount for the application and biometric services.
You are eligible to apply if you:
- Physically in the United States for at least 1 year from the date of your asylum;
- Physically in the United States at the time you complete Form I-485;
- Continue to be considered a refugee in the United States or a spouse or child of a refugee;
- Do not have a permanent residence in another country;
- You are eligible to be considered an immigrant in the United States; and
- Your status as an asylum seeker has not been revoked.
