1. What are the eligibility requirements to apply for a Refugee or Asylee Green Card in Puerto Rico?

In order to be eligible for a Refugee or Asylee Green Card in Puerto Rico, one must meet the following criteria:

1. Have a valid refugee or asylee status in the United States.
2. Have been physically present in the US for at least one year.
3. Have had a legal address in Puerto Rico for at least six months.
4. Have no basis to be excluded from admission to the US as a refugee or asylee.
5. Have been deemed admissible to the US.
6. Be able to demonstrate that they will not become a public charge.
7. Not be barred from adjustment due to any criminal activity or other inadmissibility grounds.
8. Have an approved Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status, from U.S Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).

2. What refugee and asylee resettlement programs exist in Puerto Rico?

The Puerto Rico State Office of Refugee Resettlement (PORR) administers the Refugee Resettlement Program and the Unaccompanied Refugee Minor Program. PORR is also involved in providing services to asylees in Puerto Rico, such as counseling and support services. The Office of Refugee Resettlement (ORR) at the federal level provides funds to the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico for refugees and other eligible applicants. The funds are used to provide basic services, including health and mental health care, employment assistance, English language training, and educational assistance. The Department of Family is also responsible for assisting refugees with resettlement services, including finding housing, medical assistance, and access to other essential resources.

3. Are there any special considerations for refugees and asylees applying for a Green Card in Puerto Rico?

Yes, refugees and asylees applying for a Green Card in Puerto Rico may be eligible for additional assistance and/or benefits from the government. For example, they may be eligible for financial assistance, employment assistance, and health care coverage. Additionally, they may be eligible for legal services in Puerto Rico’s specialized immigration courts. Lastly, they may also be eligible to participate in special educational programs.

4. How does one apply for a Refugee or Asylee Green Card in Puerto Rico?

In order to apply for a Refugee or Asylee Green Card in Puerto Rico, you must first file Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). Once your application is approved, you will receive a Green Card in the mail. Additionally, you may need to provide proof of your refugee or asylee status, such as a valid visa, travel documents, or other evidence of status. USCIS may also require you to be interviewed by an immigration officer in order to verify your eligibility. You should contact USCIS for more information regarding the specific requirements and application process for a Refugee or Asylee Green Card in Puerto Rico.

5. How long does it take to get a Refugee or Asylee Green Card in Puerto Rico?

The amount of time it takes to get a Refugee or Asylee Green Card in Puerto Rico is typically 8-10 months. The processing time can vary depending on the individual case, however.

6. What are the processing fees associated with getting a Refugee or Asylee Green Card in Puerto Rico?

There are no processing fees associated with getting a Refugee or Asylee Green Card in Puerto Rico. The only fee that may be applicable is the cost of filing the necessary forms with the Puerto Rico Department of State.

7. Is there an interview process for refugees and asylees seeking a Green Card in Puerto Rico?

Yes, the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) conducts an interview process for refugees and asylees seeking a Green Card in Puerto Rico. The interview is conducted to verify the information provided in the application for a Green Card and allow for further inquiries about the individual’s identity, background, and reasons for seeking asylum or refugee status.

8. Are there any restrictions on refugees or asylees seeking Green Cards in Puerto Rico?

Yes, there are restrictions on refugees and asylees seeking Green Cards in Puerto Rico. Refugees and asylees must first obtain Permanent Resident status before they can apply for a Green Card. Additionally, refugees and asylees must have lived in the United States for at least one year prior to applying for a Green Card. Asylees must also meet the continuous physical presence requirement of one year prior to applying for a Green Card. Finally, refugees and asylees must pass all required eligibility tests before they can receive a Green Card.

9. What language assistance is available for refugees and asylees applying for a Green Card in Puerto Rico?

Many non-profit organizations in Puerto Rico provide language assistance to refugees and asylees who are applying for a Green Card. These organizations can provide interpreting services, translation services, and help with filling out forms in the language needed. This includes Spanish, English, and other languages. Additionally, the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) also has a telephone line (1-800-375-5283) to provide assistance with any language needs.

10. What types of evidence can be used to prove eligibility for a Refugee or Asylee Green Card in Puerto Rico?

Evidence that can be used to prove eligibility for a Refugee or Asylee Green Card in Puerto Rico includes a passport, travel documents, proof of identity, birth certificate, any identification documents issued by the government, and supporting evidence of refugee/asylee status. Additionally, individuals may need to present evidence of persecution or fear of persecution in their home country in order to prove their eligibility.

11. Are there any restrictions on travel for refugees and asylees with a Green Card issued in Puerto Rico?

Yes, refugees and asylees with a Green Card issued in Puerto Rico are subject to the same travel restrictions as any other green card holder, which include not being able to stay abroad for more than six months without risk of losing their status. They also must have a valid green card with them when traveling.

12. How can refugees and asylees with a Green Card issued in Puerto Rico adjust their status to become U.S. Citizens?

Refugees and asylees with a Green Card issued in Puerto Rico can adjust their status to become U.S. Citizens by submitting Form N-400, Application for Naturalization, to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). They will also need to provide supporting documents, such as proof of their identity, residence, and immigration status. After submitting the form and documents, they must attend an interview at a USCIS office and pass a civics test to demonstrate their knowledge of U.S. history and government. Once approved, they can take the Oath of Allegiance and become U.S. citizens.

13. Can family members of refugees and asylees obtain Green Cards through the same process in Puerto Rico?

Yes, family members of refugees and asylees in Puerto Rico can obtain Green Cards through the same process as in the United States. The same eligibility requirements, application process, and fees apply. In order to qualify for a Green Card, the family member must be the spouse, child, or parent of the refugee or asylee.

14. Are there any additional benefits available to refugees and asylees with Green Cards issued in Puerto Rico?

Yes. Refugees and asylees with Green Cards issued in Puerto Rico are eligible to receive the same benefits available to refugees and asylees with Green Cards issued in the United States, including access to public benefits such as Medicaid, Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF), Supplemental Security Income (SSI), and Refugee Cash Assistance (RCA). Additionally, refugees and asylees with Green Cards issued in Puerto Rico are also eligible for the protection of the US Refugee Resettlement Program and special educational, employment, and resettlement benefits.

15. What are the financial requirements necessary to obtain a Refugee or Asylee Green Card in Puerto Rico?

To obtain a Refugee or Asylee Green Card in Puerto Rico, applicants must demonstrate that they meet the U.S. poverty guidelines as provided by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and provide adequate documentation of financial resources. Applicants must also provide proof of identity and proof of refugee or asylee status. Additionally, applicants must pay the USCIS filing fee and biometrics fee.

16. Are refugees and asylees with Green Cards issued in Puerto Rico eligible to work in the U.S.?

Yes, refugees and asylees with Green Cards issued in Puerto Rico are eligible to work in the U.S.

17. Are refugees and asylees with Green Cards issued in Puerto Rico eligible to access public benefits and services?

Yes. Refugees and asylees with Green Cards issued in Puerto Rico are eligible to access public benefits and services.

18. Are there any special considerations for unaccompanied minors seeking Refugee or Asylee Green Cards in Puerto Rico?

Yes, there are special considerations for unaccompanied minors seeking Refugee or Asylee Green Cards in Puerto Rico. Under the Trafficking Victims Protection Reauthorization Act (TVPRA), unaccompanied children from countries other than Mexico and Canada are allowed to apply for asylum. The National Immigration Law Center (NILC) has developed a guide that explains the legal rights, protection, and resources available to unaccompanied children in Puerto Rico. Furthermore, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has created a website specifically for unaccompanied children in Puerto Rico that provides information on health care, housing, education, and other services. Additionally, the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has implemented the Unaccompanied Alien Children’s Program which enables unaccompanied minors to apply for asylum through the Refugee, Asylum and International Operations Directorate (RAIO).

19. Is there any additional support available to refugees and asylees with Green Cards issued in Puerto Rico?

Yes, refugees and asylees with Green Cards issued in Puerto Rico may be eligible for additional support. This includes access to public benefits, such as Medicaid and the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), and Puerto Rico’s financial assistance program, the Cada Hogar Program. Refugees and asylees may also be eligible for services through the Puerto Rico Department of Health’s Refugee Health Program, which provides comprehensive health services and referrals to those in need. Additionally, the Refugee Services office of Catholic Charities of Puerto Rico can help with employment referrals, English language classes, housing assistance, and other services.

20. Are there any resources available to help refugees and asylees apply for a Green Card in Puerto Rico?

Yes. The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has a page for refugees and asylees regarding their Green Card application in Puerto Rico. The page contains information on eligibility, filing fees, and forms to complete the application process. Additionally, the USCIS has an information hotline which can provide additional assistance. Additionally, many organizations in Puerto Rico offer assistance to refugees and asylees, including the Puerto Rican Legal Defense and Education Fund, the Puerto Rican Bar Association, and the Catholic Charities of Puerto Rico.