1. What are the eligibility requirements to apply for a Refugee or Asylee Green Card in Indiana?
To be eligible to apply for a Refugee or Asylee Green Card in Indiana, an individual must have been admitted to the United States as a refugee or granted asylum, and must be physically present in the United States. In addition, the individual must have been in the United States for at least one year after being granted asylum status. Additionally, they must not have any criminal history that would make them ineligible for a Green Card. Finally, they must meet all other eligibility criteria including income requirements.
2. What refugee and asylee resettlement programs exist in Indiana?
There are several refugee and asylee resettlement programs in Indiana. These include:
• Refugee Resettlement Program: This program helps refugees who have been displaced from their homes and resettles them in the United States. It provides refugees with employment services, language assistance, medical services, and other social services. This program is administered by the Indiana Office of Immigration and Refugee Affairs.
• Asylee Resettlement Program: This program helps asylees who have been granted asylum in the United States. It provides them with employment services, language assistance, medical services, and other social services. This program is administered by the Indiana Office of Immigration and Refugee Affairs.
• Refugee Cash Assistance: This program provides financial assistance to eligible refugees in Indiana, including assistance with housing, food, clothing, and other items. This program is administered by the Indiana Department of Child Services.
• Refugee Medical Assistance Program: This program provides medical assistance to eligible refugees in Indiana. It is administered by the Indiana Family and Social Services Administration.
3. Are there any special considerations for refugees and asylees applying for a Green Card in Indiana?
Yes, refugees and asylees may be eligible to apply for a Green Card (also known as Permanent Resident Card) in Indiana. Special considerations for refugees and asylees include the following:
1. Refugees applying for a Green Card may be eligible for a waiver of the application fee.
2. Asylees must submit an I-485 (Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status) to the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).
3. Refugees and asylees may be eligible for an expedited processing of their Green Card application if they meet certain criteria such as having a qualifying family member already living in the United States.
4. Refugees and asylees may also apply for an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) along with their Green Card application. This will allow them to work in the United States and will be valid for one year from the date of issuance.
5. Refugees and asylees may also be eligible for certain other types of relief such as asylum, withholding of removal, or protection under the Convention Against Torture (CAT). These forms of relief can provide additional protection and benefits to those seeking safety in the United States.
4. How does one apply for a Refugee or Asylee Green Card in Indiana?
In order to apply for a refugee or asylee green card in Indiana, you must first file Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status. This form can be found online and must be filled out completely. Additionally, you must submit evidence of your refugee or asylee status, proof of identity, and proof of eligibility for a green card. You may also need to submit additional documents depending on your unique case. After submitting the application, you will be scheduled for an interview at the local USCIS office in Indiana. During the interview, an officer will review your application and assess whether or not you meet the requirements for a green card.
5. How long does it take to get a Refugee or Asylee Green Card in Indiana?
The processing time for a Refugee or Asylee Green Card in Indiana can vary, depending on the individual case. Generally, it takes about 6 months to 1 year to receive a Refugee or Asylee Green Card after the case is filed.
6. What are the processing fees associated with getting a Refugee or Asylee Green Card in Indiana?
The processing fees associated with getting a Refugee or Asylee Green Card in Indiana are as follows:
• Form I-485 Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status fee: $1,225.
• Biometric services fee: $85.
• Form I-131 Application for Travel Document fee: $575.
• Form I-765 Application for Employment Authorization Document fee: $410.
All applicants should keep in mind that these fees may change at any time, and additional fees may be required for certain applications.
7. Is there an interview process for refugees and asylees seeking a Green Card in Indiana?
Yes, refugees and asylees who wish to obtain a Green Card in Indiana will be required to attend an interview with a USCIS (U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services) officer. The interview is an important part of the process, as it allows the officer to assess the individual’s eligibility for the Green Card.
8. Are there any restrictions on refugees or asylees seeking Green Cards in Indiana?
Yes. Refugees and asylees seeking Green Cards must meet all the general application requirements for U.S. permanent residence, including an interview and medical exam. Refugees must also have an “adjustment of status” form approved by the Department of Homeland Security. Additionally, if a refugee or asylee has been in the United States for less than one year, they must be sponsored by a designated refugee agency.
9. What language assistance is available for refugees and asylees applying for a Green Card in Indiana?
There are multiple language assistance programs available to help refugees and asylees apply for a Green Card in Indiana. The U.S. Department of State’s Office of Refugee Resettlement operates a variety of programs designed to provide language assistance to refugees, asylees, and other immigrants. These programs include the National Call Center for Refugees and Immigrants, the Refugee Translation Service, and the Language Access Services for Refugees in Indiana (LASRI). Additionally, many non-profit organizations in Indiana, such as Exodus Refugee Immigration and Catholic Charities Indianapolis, can provide language assistance services.
10. What types of evidence can be used to prove eligibility for a Refugee or Asylee Green Card in Indiana?
Evidence that can be used to prove eligibility for a Refugee or Asylee Green Card in Indiana includes proof of identity, such as a passport or birth certificate; proof of entering the United States as a refugee or asylee; evidence of refugee or asylee status granted by the US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS); proof of residence in Indiana; and documents issued by the US government certifying eligibility for a Refugee or Asylee Green Card.
11. Are there any restrictions on travel for refugees and asylees with a Green Card issued in Indiana?
Yes, there are restrictions on travel for refugees and asylees with a Green Card issued in Indiana. Legal permanent residents, including refugees and asylees, must present a valid Green Card upon returning to the United States after international travel. They must also meet the same entry requirements as any other foreign national entering the United States. In addition, all refugees and asylees must obtain advance permission to travel abroad, known as “advance parole” or “travel permission” before leaving the United States.
12. How can refugees and asylees with a Green Card issued in Indiana adjust their status to become U.S. Citizens?
Refugees and asylees with a Green Card issued in Indiana can adjust their status to become U.S. Citizens by completing the naturalization process. This includes submitting Form N-400, Application for Naturalization; passing a civics and English test; providing proof of good moral character; and attending an interview with USCIS.
13. Can family members of refugees and asylees obtain Green Cards through the same process in Indiana?
Yes, family members of refugees and asylees can obtain Green Cards through the same process in Indiana. The process includes filing Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status, with the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).
14. Are there any additional benefits available to refugees and asylees with Green Cards issued in Indiana?
Yes, refugees and asylees with Green Cards issued in Indiana are eligible for the same benefits as all other permanent residents. These include access to federally funded programs such as the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF), Medicaid, and other public aid programs. They are also eligible to apply for work authorization, enroll in school, obtain a driver’s license, and apply for naturalization.
15. What are the financial requirements necessary to obtain a Refugee or Asylee Green Card in Indiana?
The financial requirements necessary to obtain a Refugee or Asylee Green Card in Indiana vary depending on the individual’s circumstances. Generally, the applicant must demonstrate financial ability to support themselves without becoming a public charge. This may include providing evidence of employment, income, assets, and/or other financial resources, such as family members who can provide support. The applicant must also prove they have maintained lawful status in the US by providing copies of their immigration documents, such as passport, birth certificate, refugee travel documents (Form I-94), etc. Additional documentation may be required to demonstrate eligibility, such as a medical examination, criminal background check, or other evidence of good moral character.
16. Are refugees and asylees with Green Cards issued in Indiana eligible to work in the U.S.?
Yes, refugees and asylees with Green Cards issued in Indiana are eligible to work in the U.S.
17. Are refugees and asylees with Green Cards issued in Indiana eligible to access public benefits and services?
Yes, refugees and asylees with green cards issued in Indiana are eligible to access public benefits and services. They may be eligible for a variety of services including health care, food assistance, job training, housing assistance, and other social services.
18. Are there any special considerations for unaccompanied minors seeking Refugee or Asylee Green Cards in Indiana?
Yes. Unaccompanied minors seeking Refugee or Asylee Green Cards in Indiana must be referred to a specialized legal service provider for assistance. The Immigration Legal Services Department of the American Civil Liberties Union of Indiana (ACLU-IN) provides free legal services for unaccompanied minors in Indiana. They can be contacted at (317) 636-2029.
19. Is there any additional support available to refugees and asylees with Green Cards issued in Indiana?
Yes, refugees and asylees in Indiana may be eligible for additional support through the Refugee Resettlement Program. This program provides financial and other forms of assistance to refugees and asylees who have recently been granted Green Cards. This program is managed by the Indiana Office of Refugee Programs. More information on the program and how to apply can be found online at http://www.in.gov/fssa/refugee/2386.htm.
20. Are there any resources available to help refugees and asylees apply for a Green Card in Indiana?
Yes. There are several resources available to help refugees and asylees apply for a Green Card in Indiana. The Indiana Refugee Immigration Program (IRIP) assists refugees and asylees with immigration issues in Indiana. IRIP provides free legal advice and services to immigrants and can help with the application process. The Immigrant Welcome Center in Indianapolis also provides free legal advice, assistance with immigration paperwork, and other resources to immigrants in the area. Additionally, the American Immigration Lawyers Association has a nationwide directory of pro bono immigration lawyers who may be able to provide assistance.