Introduction: Green Card for Refugees
A Green Card gives refugees the legal right to live and work permanently in the United States. It offers long-term security, the ability to travel internationally with proper documents, and a future path to U.S. citizenship.
Refugees in the United States are protected because they cannot safely return to their home country due to past persecution or a well-founded fear of harm. Under U.S. immigration law, refugees must apply for a Green Card after one year of living in the country. This application process is known as adjustment of status.
This guide explains who is eligible, when and how to apply, the required forms and documents, and what to expect after filing and approval of the refugee Green Card.
Who Is Considered a Refugee?
A refugee is someone who was forced to flee their home country because of persecution or a fear of persecution due to:
- Religion
- Race
- Political opinion
- Nationality
- Membership in a particular social group
It is important not to confuse refugee status with asylum status, even though both groups receive similar protections. Asylum is granted after applying from inside the U.S., while refugee status is granted before arriving. For more details, see our guide on Refugee vs. Asylum.
Do Refugees Have to Apply for a Green Card?
Yes. By law, refugees must apply for a Green Card after:
- One year of physical presence in the United States
- Maintaining refugee status during that year
Not applying could create problems later, especially if you travel or need to renew documents.
Green Card Eligibility Requirements for Refugees
To qualify, a refugee must meet the following:
Must Still Hold Refugee Status
Your status must not have been terminated or revoked.
Must Be in the U.S. for at Least One Year
You must show proof of your physical presence in the United States for 12 continuous months.
Must Be Admissible
USCIS checks issues such as:
- Security concerns
- Criminal history
- Medical issues
If there is a problem, some cases allow a waiver using Form I-602.
Must Submit Supporting Documents
Common documents include:
- Passport (if available)
- Form I-94
- Proof of one year in the U.S.
- Birth certificate
- photos for the application
Must Complete the Medical Exam
Refugees must submit Form I-693, completed by a USCIS-approved doctor. If you want to understand more about how immigration medical exams work, read our guide: Green Card Medical Exam Process.
