How to Apply for a Green Card from Refugee Status

Aug 28

If you entered the United States as a refugee, you already have important protections under U.S. law. But refugee status is not permanent residency. To gain long-term stability and a clear path to U.S. citizenship, you must apply for a green card through a process called adjustment of status.

This article explains the eligibility, process, documents, and timeline for refugees who want to apply for lawful permanent residency.

Who Is Eligible?

Under U.S. immigration law, all refugees are required to apply for a green card one year after entering the country. You are eligible to adjust your status if:

You were admitted to the U.S. as a refugee through the U.S. Refugee Admissions Program (USRAP).
At least one year has passed since you entered as a refugee.
You have maintained continuous presence in the United States since your admission.
You have not resettled in another country or engaged in activity that makes you inadmissible (such as serious criminal offenses).

The Form You Need: I-485

The main application is Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status. Refugees do not pay the usual filing fee for this form.

Along with the I-485, you may also file:

Form I-693, Report of Medical Examination and Vaccination Record
Form I-131, Application for Travel Document (Refugee Travel Document) – needed if you plan to travel abroad before becoming a U.S. citizen.

Documents You Must Submit

Typical supporting evidence includes:

Proof of refugee admission (Form I-94 Arrival/Departure Record marked “Refugee” or USCIS approval notice)
Passport-style photos
Completed medical exam (Form I-693, sealed envelope)
Proof of identity (refugee travel document, national passport, or birth certificate if available)
Any court or police records if you were ever arrested or charged

The Application Process

Prepare your forms and documents – Complete Form I-485 and gather required evidence.
Submit to USCIS – Refugees typically file with the appropriate USCIS lockbox.
Biometrics appointment – You will be scheduled for fingerprints and background checks.
Interview – Some refugee applicants may be called for an interview, though many are approved without one.
Receive your green card – If approved, you will be granted lawful permanent resident status.

Timeline

Most refugee green card applications take 8–14 months to process, depending on USCIS caseload.
Once approved, your permanent resident card is valid for 10 years and renewable.
After five years of permanent residency (or three if married to a U.S. citizen), you may be eligible to apply for naturalization.

Benefits of a Green Card for Refugees

Legal permanent residency in the U.S.
Ability to sponsor certain family members.
Work authorization is automatic and permanent with the green card.
Freedom to travel abroad with a refugee travel document.
A secure pathway to U.S. citizenship.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Missing the one-year deadline – By law, refugees are expected to apply within one year.
Incomplete medical exams – The medical form must be submitted in a sealed envelope from a USCIS-approved doctor.
Incorrect forms – Make sure to use the latest I-485 from USCIS.gov.
Not disclosing past arrests – Even minor legal issues must be disclosed to avoid denial.

Conclusion: Take the Next Step

Applying for a green card from refugee status is the essential next step after resettlement in the United States. It transforms your temporary protection into permanent residency and opens the door to full participation in American life, including the ability to eventually become a citizen.

If you are ready to apply or have questions about your eligibility, our team at New Horizons Legal is here to help. We guide refugees through the adjustment of status process with professional support, step-by-step preparation, and attorney review.

Olivia Terry