Dear First name / Great Neighbor,
This week, we launched our Aspiring Americans Campaign to benefit the newcomer naturalization process. Have you ever wondered what it takes for a refugee to become a U.S. citizen?
1. Enter the U.S. as a refugee
Refugees are highly vetted and are admitted to the U.S. through the Refugee Admissions Program (currently suspended). Once admitted, refugees receive certain benefits and protection under the law.
2. Apply for a green card
Refugees are required by law to apply for a green card one year after being admitted to the U.S. After approval, the person becomes a lawful permanent resident (LPR).
3. Wait the required period for naturalization
Refugees who become LPR’s are eligible to apply for citizenship five years after their date of U.S. entry as a refugee. While waiting, refugees gain employment, make contributions to their communities, send children to school, pay taxes, learn English, and assimilate to their new country.
4. Apply for U.S. citizenship
The application for U.S. citizenship ($760) is filed, after which the applicant submits biometrics, conducts an interview, and must pass a civics test at a USCIS office (usually in DC). Before becoming a citizen, the refugee must also pay back the international airfare that brought them to the U.S.
5. Take the Oath of Allegiance
After passing the interview and background checks, the candidate attends a naturalization ceremony (typically at a federal courthouse) and takes the Oath of Allegiance to become a U.S. citizen. The citizen can now vote, run for office, serve on a jury, and seek a U.S. Passport.
If this feels like an arduous process, it's because it is! Your gift today helps provide Aspiring Americans the resources, confidence, and community they need to reach their citizenship goals.
Thank you, in advance, for giving!
