Every year, hundreds of thousands of foreign nationals seek to come to the United States to avoid persecution based on race, religion, nationality, political opinion or membership in a particular social group.  Those who are already in the United States or who reach a port of entry are known as "asylees".  Those who are outside the United States are known as "refugees".  Today's blog will address the method for refugees and asylees to become permanent residents of the United States, with the legal permission to live and work in the United States on a permanent basis.

ADJUSTMENT OF STATUS FOR REFUGEES

A refugee is eligible to apply for adjustment of status to permanent resident one year after admission to the United States as a refugee.  To qualify, the refugee must show that he or she has been physically present in the United States as a refugee for at least one year after admission as a refugee, that he or she is admissible as an immigrant, and that the refugee admission has not been terminated. 

ADJUSTMENT OF STATUS FOR ASYLEES

An asylee may apply for adjustment of status  after having been physically present in the United States for at least one year after being granted asylum.  To qualify, the asylee must show that he or she continues to be a refugee (or the spouse or child of a refugee), that he or she has not firmly resettled in any foreign country, and that he or she is admissible to the United States as an immigrant.  "Refugee" is legally defined as someone who is located outside the United States, is of special humanitarian concern to the United States, is admissible to the United States and is able to demonstrate that he or she was persecuted or who fears persecution due to race, religion, nationality, political opinion or membership in a particular social group.

For refugees and asylees seeking adjustment of status, it is important to secure experienced legal advice to assist with the process. Christiansen Law Firm offers a range of legal expertise for refugees and asylees in need of assistance.  Christiansen Law Firm seeks to ensure that clients' needs are met by applying our in-depth experience and focus on immigration law to help find the right approach for clients.  Contact Christiansen Law Firm today in Houston or San Antonio for additional information.