Refugee and Asylee Green Cards in North Dakota

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

To be eligible to apply for a Refugee or Asylee Green Card in North Dakota, applicants must meet the following requirements:

-Be a refugee or asylee admitted to the United States under 8 U.S.C. §§1101 or 1157.

-Have been physically present in the United States for at least one year after being granted refugee or asylee status.

-Have not been absent from the United States for more than one year or left the United States without prior permission from the Department of Homeland Security.

-Have not been convicted of any crimes that would make them inadmissible to the United States.

-Be at least 18 years of age or be married and have at least one child who is a U.S. citizen or U.S. national.

2. What refugee and asylee resettlement programs exist in North Dakota?

In North Dakota, the Lutheran Immigration and Refugee Service (LIRS) operates a Refugee Resettlement Program. This program offers assistance to refugees who need assistance in settling into a new home and community. It includes help with housing, employment, language training, cultural orientation, medical assistance, and other related services. Additionally, Lutheran Social Services of North Dakota (LSSND) operates an Asylee Resettlement Program that provides assistance to individuals seeking refuge in the United States due to fear of persecution in their native country. This program helps asylees with finding housing, employment opportunities, language training, and other related services.

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

There are no special considerations for refugees and asylees applying for a Green Card in North Dakota. The same regulations that apply to other applicants also apply to refugees and asylees.

4. How does one apply for a Refugee or Asylee Green Card in North Dakota?

To apply for a Refugee or Asylee Green Card in North Dakota, you must first meet the eligibility criteria established by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). This includes proving that you meet the definition of either a refugee or an asylee and that you have been physically present in the United States for at least one year after being admitted as a refugee or granted asylum. Once you have met the eligibility criteria, you must submit Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status, to the USCIS along with supporting documentation such as proof of identity and other required documents. After your application is reviewed and approved by the USCIS, you will receive a Refugee or Asylee Green Card.

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

The time it takes to get a Refugee or Asylee Green Card in North Dakota depends on the individual situation. Generally, it can take up to six months to receive a green card after the initial application is filed. However, the actual timeline can vary depending on several factors, including case processing times and any necessary background checks.

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

In North Dakota, the processing fee for applying for a Refugee or Asylee Green Card is $725. This fee includes the application fee of $640 and the biometric services fee of $85.

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

Yes, there is an interview process for refugees and asylees seeking a Green Card in North Dakota. Refugees and asylees must complete Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status, and submit it to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). Once the form is received, the applicant will be scheduled for a biometrics appointment, which includes a fingerprint scan, and then will be scheduled for an interview at a USCIS office. During the interview, the applicant will be asked questions related to their identity, immigration history, and other relevant topics.

8. Are there any restrictions on refugees or asylees seeking Green Cards in North Dakota?

Yes. Non-U.S. citizens who are refugees or asylees in North Dakota must be admissible to the United States per the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA) to be eligible for a Green Card. They must also meet other requirements set forth by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). The restrictions may include, but are not limited to: proving they have not been convicted of a crime, demonstrating they are not a threat to national security, and showing they are not likely to become a public charge.

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

Language assistance is available for refugees and asylees applying for a Green Card in North Dakota through the Refugee Resettlement Program of Lutheran Social Services of North Dakota. The organization provides translation of written material, interpretation services, language coaching and support to help refugees and asylees make their way through the application process.

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

In North Dakota, the types of evidence that can be used to prove eligibility for a Refugee or Asylee Green Card include, but are not limited to:

– Copies of Form I-94, Arrival/Departure Record (if available)

– Documentation from the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) confirming refugee or asylee status

– A copy of the individual’s passport

– Evidence of any changes in name, date of birth, or marital status

– Documentation verifying the relationship between the foreign national and any family members who are also applying for permanent resident status

– A written statement from a qualified expert attesting to the persecution the foreign national experienced in his or her country of origin

– Copies of documents that verify employment in North Dakota for at least one year prior to filing an application for adjustment of status

– Documentation verifying that the foreign national has pursued an education in North Dakota for at least one year prior to filing an application for adjustment of status.

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

Yes. Refugees and asylees with Green Cards issued in North Dakota are not allowed to travel outside of the United States for more than one year without obtaining a re-entry permit prior to departure. This permit must be obtained from U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services prior to leaving the United States.

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

Refugees and asylees with a Green Card issued in North Dakota can adjust their status to become U.S. citizens by filing Form N-400, Application for Naturalization. They must meet all of the requirements to become a U.S. citizen, including having resided in the United States for at least five years, having been physically present in the United States for at least 30 months out of those five years, and having a basic understanding of English and U.S. civics. They must also be of good moral character and demonstrate attachment to the principles of the U.S. Constitution. After successfully completing this process, they will be able to take the Oath of Allegiance to officially become a U.S. citizen.

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

Yes, family members of refugees and asylees can obtain Green Cards through the same process in North Dakota. The family members must be included in the principal refugee or asylee’s visa application. The family members may also need to attend an interview with a USCIS officer.

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

No, there are no additional benefits available to refugees or asylees with Green Cards issued in North Dakota. However, refugees and asylees may be eligible for certain state benefits such as Medicaid, Food Stamps, cash assistance, and other programs. These programs may vary by state and individuals should contact their local refugee resettlement agency for more information.

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

In order to obtain a Refugee or Asylee Green Card in North Dakota, applicants must demonstrate financial stability. This includes providing evidence of the ability to financially support themselves and any dependents they may have, such as through income or employment. Applicants must also provide proof of assets such as cash, savings, and investments, as well as proof of access to medical care.

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

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

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

Yes, refugees and asylees with Green Cards issued in North Dakota are eligible to access public benefits and services, including health care, public education, and cash assistance.

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

Yes, there are special considerations for unaccompanied minors seeking Refugee or Asylee Green Cards in North Dakota. The US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) makes special provisions for minors to apply for refugee and asylee status. These provisions include waiving certain financial requirements and allowing minors to file their applications without a parent or legal guardian. Additionally, the USCIS provides access to legal assistance and other resources to ensure that the minor’s rights are protected throughout the process.

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

Yes, refugees and asylees with Green Cards issued in North Dakota can access a variety of resources and supports. These include English language classes, health care services, employment and job training services, and other community-based assistance programs. Additionally, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ Office of Refugee Resettlement (ORR) provides financial assistance to help refugees and asylees transition into their new life in the United States. ORR also provides cultural orientation to help refugees and asylees adjust to life in the United States. For more information on ORR’s services, contact ORR at 1-800-375-5283 or visit their website at https://www.acf.hhs.gov/orr.

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

Yes, there are various resources available for refugees and asylees to apply for a Green Card in North Dakota. The Lutheran Social Services of North Dakota (LSSND) offers a refugee and asylee resettlement program to help refugees and asylees complete the necessary paperwork and understand the process to apply for a Green Card. Additionally, the U.S. Department of State has a Refugee Admissions Program (RAP) that provides refugees and asylees with information on applying for permanent residency in the United States. Additionally, legal aid may be available through organizations such as Legal Services of North Dakota or the Immigrant Law Center of Minnesota.