Refugees seeking resettlement in the US must provide essential documents, including a valid passport, identification papers, and any available proof of refugee status such as a UNHCR registration card. Medical examination results and vaccination records are also required to meet health and safety standards. Supporting documents like birth certificates, marriage certificates, and any evidence of persecution may be necessary to strengthen the asylum claim during the resettlement process.
What Documents Does a Refugee Need for Resettlement in the US?
| Number | Name | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Affidavit of Relationship (AOR) | An Affidavit of Relationship (AOR) is a crucial document for refugee resettlement in the US, serving as formal evidence of family ties to a US-based sponsor. This affidavit helps establish eligibility for priority processing and support during the resettlement application. |
| 2 | IOM Medical Assessment Form | The IOM Medical Assessment Form is a critical document required for refugee resettlement in the US, detailing a comprehensive health evaluation to ensure the applicant meets the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) medical standards. This form includes immunization records, physical examination results, and screening for communicable diseases, facilitating a smooth resettlement process and compliance with US immigration health requirements. |
| 3 | Reception and Placement (R&P) Assurance Form | The Reception and Placement (R&P) Assurance Form is a critical document required for refugees resettling in the US, confirming their eligibility and acceptance into an R&P program. This form ensures coordinated support services such as housing, orientation, and employment assistance are provided promptly upon arrival. |
| 4 | Convention Travel Document (CTD) | Refugees seeking resettlement in the US must present a valid Convention Travel Document (CTD), which serves as an internationally recognized passport issued under the 1951 Refugee Convention. The CTD facilitates travel and identification, proving refugee status and enabling entry into the US during the resettlement process. |
| 5 | Notice of Eligibility for Resettlement (NER) | The Notice of Eligibility for Resettlement (NER) is a crucial document confirming a refugee's approval to enter the US under resettlement programs. This notice, issued after screening by US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), is required alongside identity documents, medical records, and sponsorship forms for the resettlement process. |
| 6 | Resettlement Support Center (RSC) Case File | The Resettlement Support Center (RSC) case file for refugee resettlement in the US must include a completed Form I-590, the Refugee/Asylee Relative Petition, valid identity documentation, and security clearance records. Essential supporting documents such as the Notice of Referral from the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) and medical examination results are also required to ensure eligibility and facilitate proper processing. |
| 7 | USCIS Interview Appointment Notice | The USCIS Interview Appointment Notice is a critical document for refugees seeking resettlement in the US, confirming the date and location of the mandatory immigration interview. Refugees must present this notice along with their passport, Form I-590, medical examination results, and any prior immigration records to USCIS officers during the interview process. |
| 8 | Cultural Orientation Certificate | Refugees resettling in the US require a Cultural Orientation Certificate, which verifies completion of pre-departure training on American customs, legal rights, and community resources. This certificate is essential for smooth integration and access to resettlement services such as employment support and healthcare. |
| 9 | Security Advisory Opinion (SAO) Clearance | Refugees seeking resettlement in the US must obtain Security Advisory Opinion (SAO) clearance, a critical screening process conducted by multiple intelligence agencies to ensure national security. This clearance requires submission of detailed personal information, including biometric data, background checks, and interview results to verify eligibility and prevent potential threats. |
| 10 | Refugee Admissions Program (USRAP) Case Number | The Refugee Admissions Program (USRAP) case number is a critical document required for resettlement in the US, serving as a unique identifier throughout the application process. Alongside the case number, refugees must provide valid identity documentation, proof of persecution or fear of persecution, and medical and security screening records to complete the resettlement process. |
Introduction to US Refugee Resettlement Documentation
What documents are required for a refugee's resettlement in the US? Refugees must provide identification papers, proof of refugee status, and medical examination results. These documents ensure eligibility and smooth processing during resettlement in the United States.
Primary Identification Documents for Refugees
Refugees seeking resettlement in the US must provide critical identification documents to verify their identity and eligibility. These primary identification documents facilitate a smooth resettlement process and are essential for legal verification.
- Passport or Travel Document - An internationally recognized passport or a refugee travel document is required to establish identity and nationality.
- UNHCR Registration Certificate - Issued by the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees, this certificate confirms your refugee status and registration.
- Birth Certificate - A birth certificate or equivalent record is needed to verify personal identification details and age.
Proof of Refugee Status and Eligibility
Proof of refugee status is essential for resettlement in the US and typically includes documentation from the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) or a similar recognized agency. Eligibility must be verified through official forms like the I-590 Registration for Classification as Refugee, alongside valid identification documents such as a passport or national ID. Your application process requires these proofs to establish legal status and meet US immigration criteria for refugee admission.
Required Legal Papers for Entry and Stay
| Document | Description | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Refugee Travel Document | A document issued to refugees for travel outside the United States | Allows legal travel and re-entry to the US during resettlement processing |
| Form I-590, Registration for Classification as Refugee | Filed to request refugee status and initiate resettlement procedures | Establishes eligibility for refugee admission into the US |
| Form I-94, Arrival/Departure Record | Issued upon arrival in the United States | Proof of lawful entry and status as a refugee in the US |
| Form I-730, Refugee/Asylee Relative Petition | Used to bring eligible family members to the US | Facilitates family reunification during resettlement |
| Employment Authorization Document (EAD) - Form I-766 | Work permit issued to refugees after arrival | Allows legal employment and income generation |
| Social Security Number (SSN) | Issued by the Social Security Administration | Required for employment, benefits, and identification |
| Permanent Resident Card (Green Card) - Form I-551 | Granted after one year of refugee status | Proof of permanent residency and authorization to stay in the US |
| Medical Examination Records | Certification of required health screenings and vaccinations | Ensures compliance with US health regulations for entry |
| Identification Documents from Home Country | Passports, national IDs, or any available personal identification | Supports your identity verification and processing |
Health and Medical Clearance Documentation
Health and medical clearance documentation is a critical part of the refugee resettlement process in the US. These documents ensure that you meet the health requirements set by the U.S. government for entry and settlement.
- Medical Examination Report - An authorized panel physician completes this report to verify overall health and absence of communicable diseases.
- Vaccination Records - Proof of necessary immunizations is required to protect public health and facilitate school enrollment.
- TB Test Results - Tuberculosis screening is mandatory to identify and treat active or latent infections before arrival.
Proper health and medical clearance documentation expedites the resettlement process and supports successful integration into the US.
Employment Authorization and Work Permits
Refugees resettling in the US must obtain key documents to legally work and integrate into society. Employment Authorization Documents (EAD), also known as work permits, are essential for refugees to gain lawful employment.
To apply for an EAD, refugees typically file Form I-765 with the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). The EAD grants refugees the legal right to work while their immigration status is processed. This document is valid for one year and can be renewed to ensure continuous employment authorization.
Social Security Application Documents
Refugees applying for resettlement in the US must provide specific documents when applying for a Social Security card. Essential documents include the Form I-94 (Arrival/Departure Record) and the refugee travel document or permanent resident card (Green Card). These documents verify the refugee's identity and legal status, enabling them to access Social Security benefits and services.
Housing and Residency Documentation
Refugees resettling in the US require specific housing and residency documentation to establish a stable living situation. Providing accurate documents helps streamline the resettlement process and supports access to essential services.
- Proof of Address - Documentation such as a lease agreement or utility bills verifies your intended residence in the US.
- Residency Application Forms - Form I-485 or similar petitions demonstrate your application for lawful permanent residency status.
- Affidavit of Support - A form submitted by a sponsor confirms financial backing for housing and living expenses during initial resettlement.
Document Translation and Certification Requirements
Refugees applying for resettlement in the US must provide accurate and complete documentation, including identity papers, birth certificates, and any relevant legal documents. All documents not originally in English require certified translations to ensure proper interpretation by US immigration authorities.
Certified translations must be performed by qualified translators who attest to the accuracy of the translation, accompanied by a signed certification statement. Failure to submit properly translated and certified documents can result in delays or denial of resettlement applications.
What Documents Does a Refugee Need for Resettlement in the US? Infographic
