Refugee Help
Welcome
As a refugee in the United States, there is a lot you have to do as you settle into your new home. You must apply for your green card and get a state identification card or driver’s license. If there are mistakes on any of your documents, for example if your age is wrong on the paper, you need to correct it.
You will never need a work permit as a refugee. However, there is a time limit on your access to public benefits, and you should consider preparing yourself to apply for citizenship.
Refugee Help
Welcome
As a refugee in the United States, there is a lot you have to do as you settle into your new home. You must apply for your green card and get a state identification card or driver’s license. If there are mistakes on any of your documents, for example if your age is wrong on the paper, you need to correct it.
You will never need a work permit as a refugee. However, there is a time limit on your access to public benefits, and you should consider preparing yourself to apply for citizenship.
Welcome Corps | Refugee Sponsorship Program
In January 2023, the United States government started a new Refugee Resettlement program called Welcome Corps. Welcome Corps is a private program that lets groups of 5 people resettle refugees. We know that many refugees already living in the U.S. are excited about Welcome Corps because they want to bring their family and friends to safety in the U.S. Learn More.
Integration and Education
Refugees and immigrants of all backgrounds can benefit from the free education and integration classes we offer. Catholic Charities Milwaukee can help you learn English, prepare for citizenship, understand American culture, and more. Learn More
Refugee Green Card
Refugees are not automatically given green cards; you must follow a unique set of rules to apply for one. The refugee green card application is free, but each family member will have to apply individually. Also, refugee travel documents are no longer free of charge. You will have to pay separately for each person. Learn More.
Citizenship
Becoming a citizen helps ensure that you can keep your public benefits, which are only available for limited amount of time for refugees. You can also apply for a U.S. passport, which means you won’t have to worry about getting a refugee travel document if you want to travel outside of the country. Learn More.
Petition for Family Member
If you would like to "call" your family member to the United States, you can petition on their behalf through the Priority System. If you are a United States citizen, you can petition under the Immediate Relative System. Learn More
DMV
To get a state identification card or driver's license, you will need to go to the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) in your area. You need to bring certain documents with you, including proof of identity and proof of status. Learn More
Diversity Visa Lottery
If the waiting period for your loved one is really long in the family-based system, a quicker way to bring them to the United States might be through the Diversity Visa Lottery. But it is really important to understand that an immigrant visa alone is NOT a green card or lawful permanent residency. An immigrant visa is just the first step in getting a green card or lawful permanent residency. Learn More
Seek the Help of a Good Lawyer
We Can't Stress This Enough
These pages are intended to help you understand what you are looking for – not to help you complete any of these applications alone. Immigration law is detailed and complicated, and we urge you to rely on a well-trained lawyer for help. Find an immigration attorney who will give you an honest assessment of your case and guide you through the processes.
Additional Resources
If you are a lawful permanent resident, you should always keep your green card valid. Renewing is not complicated, but like anything else with immigration, there are some things you have to watch out for.
Refugees coming to the United States must make several adjustments, and often have questions about green cards, citizenship, and work permits.
Green card holders, or lawful permanent residents, can be deported for both minor and serious criminal convictions. First we will discuss what crimes can put a green card holder in deportation, then we will talk about how you can sometimes fix the problem.