Definition
Refugee
A person granted protection from outside the U.S. before entering.
Refugees meet the same definition as asylees but apply from outside the U.S. through the U.S. Refugee Admissions Program. Refugees enter the U.S. with refugee status and may apply for LPR status one year after arrival.
See also
More immigration terms
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Removal Proceedings
Immigration court hearings to determine whether a noncitizen must leave the U.S.
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RFE
Request for Evidence — USCIS letter asking for more documents before deciding.
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Social Security Administration
The federal agency that issues Social Security numbers to eligible noncitizens.
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Social Security Number
A 9-digit number issued by SSA used for U.S. employment, taxes, and credit.
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Special Immigrant Juvenile Status
Path to a green card for immigrant children who have been abused, neglected, or abandoned.
Not legal advice. Definitions are provided for educational use. For case-specific guidance, consult a licensed immigration attorney.