Refugee Attorney in Orlando

Who Qualifies for Refugee Status?

Refugee status protects qualifying people who are outside the United States and can’t safely return to their home country. An applicant generally must establish a well-founded fear of persecution based on race, religion, nationality, membership in a particular social group, or political opinion.

Refugee Status vs. Asylum

Location is the central distinction between refugee and asylum status. Refugees seek protection while outside the United States. People seeking asylum are already in the country or arriving at a port of entry. Someone currently in the United States generally wouldn’t use the refugee admissions process to request protection.

Referrals & Security Screening

Applicants typically enter the U.S. Refugee Admissions Program through an eligible referral. Referrals may come from the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees, commonly known as UNHCR, a U.S. embassy, or another designated organization. Applicants undergo interviews and security screening before the United States decides whether to approve admission.

What Happens After Refugee Admission?

Admission begins a refugee’s U.S. immigration process. Refugees are authorized to work based on their status, and Form I-94 can serve as initial evidence of employment authorization.

Important post-arrival matters include:

• Permanent Residence: Refugees must apply for lawful permanent residence after being physically present in the United States for one year. This adjustment of status process uses Form I-485.
• Family Reunification: An eligible refugee may file Form I-730, Refugee/Asylee Relative Petition, to request qualifying follow-to-join benefits for a spouse or unmarried children.
• International Travel: Refugees generally should obtain a refugee travel document before leaving the United States. Returning to the country where persecution was feared can raise questions about whether protection remains necessary.