Navigating the U.S. refugee resettlement process requires experienced legal guidance at every stage — from the initial UNHCR referral through overseas processing, arrival, and adjustment of status. Our attorneys help refugees and their families build new lives in the Albany and Capital District area with thorough preparation and compassionate support.
The United States Refugee Admissions Program (USRAP) provides a pathway to safety and permanent resettlement for individuals who have been persecuted or face a well-founded fear of persecution on account of race, religion, nationality, political opinion, or membership in a particular social group. Unlike asylum, which is available to individuals already in the United States, refugee status is processed overseas — applicants are screened, vetted, and approved for admission before they ever arrive on U.S. soil. At Mandi Law Group in Albany, our immigration attorneys assist refugees and their families throughout the Capital District with every aspect of the resettlement process.
The refugee process typically begins with a referral from the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), a U.S. embassy, or a designated non-governmental organization. After referral, the case is assigned to one of several Resettlement Support Centers (RSCs) around the world that manage the application process. The RSC prepares the case file, conducts pre-screening interviews, and coordinates the extensive background and security checks required by U.S. law — including checks by the FBI, the Department of Homeland Security, the Department of Defense, and the National Counterterrorism Center.
Approved refugees receive cultural orientation before departure, which covers essential topics such as U.S. laws and customs, housing, transportation, employment, education, and health care. Upon arrival in the United States, refugees are received by a local resettlement agency that provides initial reception and placement services — including temporary housing, basic necessities, and assistance enrolling in public benefits such as Refugee Cash Assistance, Refugee Medical Assistance, and SNAP. Our attorneys in Albany help coordinate the arrival process and connect refugees with local resources throughout the Capital District.
Once in the United States, refugees receive automatic employment authorization and are required to apply for adjustment of status to lawful permanent resident (green card) one year after admission. This adjustment is a critical step on the path to U.S. citizenship. Our attorneys prepare thorough adjustment applications, assist with employment authorization documentation, advise on family reunification options, and guide refugees through every stage of the transition from initial arrival to permanent resident status and beyond.
If you have recently arrived in the United States as a refugee, there are important steps you need to take — including obtaining your Employment Authorization Document, applying for adjustment of status after one year, and exploring family reunification options for loved ones still abroad. Contact our office for a confidential consultation.
(518) 698-0347Our refugee processing practice covers every stage of the resettlement journey — from overseas processing through arrival, employment, and adjustment of status to permanent residence.
The U.S. Refugee Admissions Program (USRAP) involves a multi-step overseas processing pipeline that begins with a referral from the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), a U.S. embassy, or a designated non-governmental organization. After referral, cases are assigned to a Resettlement Support Center (RSC) that prepares the case file, conducts pre-screening interviews, and coordinates the extensive security and background checks required by U.S. law. Our attorneys assist with UNHCR referral tracking, RSC processing coordination, monitoring the progress of security checks, facilitating required medical examinations, and arranging travel logistics for approved refugees arriving in the Albany and Capital District area.
Upon arrival in the United States, refugees face the immediate challenge of establishing a new life in an unfamiliar environment. Our attorneys work alongside resettlement agencies and community organizations to help newly arrived refugees navigate initial reception procedures, enroll in available federal and state benefits — including Refugee Cash Assistance, Refugee Medical Assistance, and SNAP — secure stable housing, connect with employment services and vocational training, and build community connections in the Albany and Capital District area. We ensure that refugees understand their rights, obligations, and the resources available to support their transition.
Refugees admitted to the United States receive automatic employment authorization upon arrival — unlike asylum applicants, refugees do not need to wait for a separate Employment Authorization Document (EAD) before they can work. However, obtaining the physical EAD card, applying for a Social Security number, and understanding employer rights and workplace protections are essential steps in the employment process. Our attorneys guide refugees through the EAD issuance process, assist with Social Security Administration applications, advise on employer rights under federal and New York State anti-discrimination laws, and help resolve any employment authorization issues that arise.
Refugees are required to apply for lawful permanent resident status (a green card) one year after their admission to the United States. This adjustment of status is filed on Form I-485 and requires the refugee to demonstrate that they continue to meet the definition of a refugee and are not subject to any bars to adjustment. Derivative family members — spouses and unmarried children under 21 who were included in the original refugee application — may also adjust status. Our attorneys prepare thorough adjustment applications, compile the necessary documentation, monitor processing timelines, and address any complications that arise during the adjudication process, including issues related to inadmissibility grounds or changes in family composition.
From the initial referral to permanent residence, the refugee resettlement process follows a structured path. Here is what to expect at each stage.
The refugee process begins with a referral from UNHCR, a U.S. embassy, or a qualified non-governmental organization. Our attorneys assist with referral documentation, track the status of pending referrals, and ensure that all required information is accurately submitted to initiate the resettlement process.
After referral, the case is assigned to a Resettlement Support Center (RSC) for pre-screening, background checks, security vetting, and medical examinations. We coordinate with RSC personnel, monitor processing timelines, and address any issues that arise during the multi-step vetting process.
Upon approval, refugees receive cultural orientation before departure, travel to the United States, and are received by a resettlement agency. Our attorneys help coordinate the arrival process, connect refugees with local resources in the Albany and Capital District area, and assist with initial benefits enrollment and housing.
One year after admission, refugees must apply for permanent resident status. We prepare and file the Form I-485 adjustment application, compile supporting documentation, include derivative family members, and guide refugees through the path from green card to eventual U.S. citizenship.
Building New Lives in the Capital District
Comprehensive legal support for refugees resettling in Albany and the Capital District
The refugee resettlement process involves important deadlines, documentation requirements, and legal obligations. Understanding these considerations helps ensure a smooth transition and protects your immigration status.
Refugees are required to apply for adjustment of status to lawful permanent resident (green card) one year after their date of admission to the United States. This is not optional — failure to file within a reasonable period after the one-year anniversary can create complications for your immigration status and delay your path to citizenship. Our attorneys track the one-year deadline for every refugee client and initiate the adjustment process promptly to avoid any lapse in status or unnecessary delays.
Unlike asylum applicants who must wait 180 days before applying for work authorization, refugees receive employment authorization immediately upon admission to the United States. Your refugee admission stamp (Form I-94) serves as proof of work authorization for 90 days, during which time you should receive your Employment Authorization Document (EAD) card. Our attorneys assist with obtaining the EAD card, applying for a Social Security number, and resolving any issues that arise with employment verification.
Refugees may petition for eligible family members who were not included in the original refugee application to join them in the United States. Spouses and unmarried children under 21 may be brought through the Form I-730 Refugee/Asylee Relative Petition, which must be filed within two years of the principal refugee's admission. For other family members, refugees who become lawful permanent residents or U.S. citizens may file family-based immigrant visa petitions. Our attorneys evaluate all available family reunification options and help reunite families as quickly as possible.
Refugees must comply with certain requirements to maintain their status and eligibility for benefits. This includes keeping your address current with USCIS, not returning to the country from which you sought protection without prior authorization, and cooperating with any requests for additional information or documentation. Returning to your home country can be interpreted as evidence that you no longer fear persecution and may jeopardize your refugee status and eligibility for adjustment. Our attorneys advise on travel restrictions and status maintenance throughout the resettlement process.
Answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about refugee processing and resettlement. Every situation is unique — consult with our attorneys for guidance specific to your case.
The U.S. Refugee Admissions Program (USRAP) is the federal program through which refugees are identified, screened, and admitted to the United States for permanent resettlement. The process typically begins with a referral from the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), a U.S. embassy, or a qualified non-governmental organization. After referral, cases are assigned to a Resettlement Support Center (RSC) that manages the application process, including interviews, background checks, security screening, and medical examinations. Approved refugees receive cultural orientation before traveling to the United States, where they are received by a resettlement agency. Our attorneys in Albany assist refugees throughout this process and help with the transition to life in the Capital District.
The timeline for refugee processing varies significantly depending on the country of origin, the specific circumstances of the case, and current processing backlogs. On average, the process from initial UNHCR referral to arrival in the United States can take anywhere from one to three years, and in some cases longer. The multi-step security screening process, which includes checks by multiple U.S. government agencies, accounts for a significant portion of this timeline. Processing delays can also result from administrative backlogs at Resettlement Support Centers, incomplete documentation, or changes in refugee admissions ceilings and policy priorities. Our attorneys monitor processing timelines and advocate for timely adjudication.
Refugees arriving in the United States are eligible for a range of federal and state benefits designed to support their initial resettlement. These include Refugee Cash Assistance (RCA) for up to eight months, Refugee Medical Assistance (RMA) for up to eight months for those not eligible for Medicaid, access to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), enrollment in English language training programs, employment services and vocational training, and assistance from local resettlement agencies with housing, transportation, and community orientation. In New York State, additional state-funded programs may be available. Our attorneys in Albany help refugees navigate the benefits enrollment process and connect with local resources in the Capital District.
Yes. Unlike asylum applicants, refugees receive employment authorization automatically upon admission to the United States. The refugee's Form I-94 arrival record serves as evidence of employment authorization for 90 days. During this period, USCIS processes the Employment Authorization Document (EAD) card, which provides long-term proof of work authorization. Refugees should also apply for a Social Security number promptly after arrival, as employers require it for payroll and tax purposes. Our attorneys assist with the EAD issuance process, Social Security applications, and any employment verification issues that arise with employers.
Refugees are required by law to apply for adjustment of status to lawful permanent resident (green card) one year after their date of admission to the United States. The application is filed on Form I-485 and must include evidence that the applicant continues to meet the definition of a refugee, has been physically present in the United States for at least one year, has not been firmly resettled in any third country, and is not subject to any grounds of inadmissibility. Derivative family members who were included in the original refugee admission may also apply for adjustment. There is no filing fee for refugee adjustment of status applications. Our attorneys prepare and file the adjustment application promptly to ensure no lapse in status.
Yes. Refugees have several options for family reunification. Spouses and unmarried children under the age of 21 who were not included in the original refugee application may be brought to the United States through the Form I-730 Refugee/Asylee Relative Petition, which must be filed within two years of the principal refugee's admission. Once a refugee becomes a lawful permanent resident through adjustment of status, they may also file family-based immigrant visa petitions (Form I-130) for additional family members. After naturalization as a U.S. citizen, the range of eligible family members expands further. Our attorneys evaluate all available family reunification options and file petitions promptly to minimize separation.
Cultural orientation is a program provided to approved refugees before their departure for the United States. Conducted by the International Organization for Migration (IOM) or other designated organizations, cultural orientation covers essential topics including U.S. laws and customs, housing and transportation, employment expectations, education and health care systems, financial literacy, and the role of the resettlement agency. The program helps refugees prepare for the practical realities of life in the United States and set realistic expectations for the resettlement process. Upon arrival in the Albany and Capital District area, our attorneys complement this orientation with guidance on local resources, legal rights, and immigration-specific obligations.
Refugees may travel outside the United States, but they must first obtain a Refugee Travel Document (Form I-131) before departing. Traveling without this document can result in being denied re-entry. It is critically important that refugees do not travel to the country from which they sought protection. Returning to your home country can be interpreted by USCIS as evidence that you no longer fear persecution, which may jeopardize your refugee status, your eligibility for adjustment of status, and any pending family reunification petitions. Our attorneys advise refugee clients on travel restrictions, assist with Refugee Travel Document applications, and ensure that travel plans do not negatively impact immigration status.
Our asylum and refugee practice covers every form of humanitarian protection available under U.S. immigration law.
Our attorneys provide comprehensive legal services across multiple practice areas.
Helping families stay together through marriage-based green cards, fiance visas, family reunification petitions, and relative sponsorship applications.
Strategic visa solutions for employers and professionals, including H-1B specialty workers, L-1 transfers, EB-5 investors, and PERM labor certification.
Guiding lawful permanent residents through the naturalization process, from application preparation and test readiness to interview coaching and document review.
Aggressive defense for individuals facing removal proceedings, including asylum claims, cancellation of removal, and appeals before immigration courts.
Compassionate representation for individuals seeking protection from persecution, including asylum applications, refugee processing, and CAT protection claims.
Comprehensive immigration compliance solutions for businesses, including I-9 audits, global mobility programs, and immigration policy development.
Experienced advocacy for individuals seeking waivers of inadmissibility, including I-601 hardship waivers, I-601A provisional waivers, and fraud waivers.
Dedicated legal support for crime victims seeking U-visa immigration relief, including certification assistance, application filing, and family derivative petitions.
Skilled appellate representation before the BIA and federal courts, including motions to reopen, motions to reconsider, and appeals of adverse immigration decisions.
Whether you are navigating overseas processing, have recently arrived in the United States as a refugee, or need help with employment authorization, adjustment of status, or family reunification, our experienced immigration attorneys are here to guide you through every step. Every consultation is confidential and without obligation.