The resettlement process for refugee and asylee families is a crucial aspect of humanitarian efforts, aiming to reunite families and provide them with stability and safety. Refugees and asylees often flee persecution and conflict, leaving behind loved ones.
Family reunification policies ensure these individuals can rebuild their lives in a supportive environment alongside their families.
U.S. immigration system offers pathways for refugees and asylees
The U.S. immigration system allow to bring eligible family members, such as spouses and children, to join them. Programs like the I-730 Refugee/Asylee Relative Petition allow for this reunification. Despite these provisions, challenges persist, including lengthy processing times, documentation hurdles, and emotional strain. Addressing these challenges requires enhanced efficiency in the application process, legal support, and community integration programs to ensure a smooth transition for families.
If you entered the United States as a refugee within the past 2 years or were granted asylee status within the past 2 years, you may petition for certain family members to obtain derivative refugee or asylee status. If you have not yet been granted or applied for refugee or asylee status, please see the Refugees and Asylum page.
You May Petition for the Following Family Members:
- Spouse
- Child (unmarried and under 21 when you first applied for asylum or refugee status)
Eligibility Criteria
- You must be a principal refugee or asylee. (You were granted refugee or asylee status directly and did not obtain it through a relative).
- You entered the United States as a refugee within the past 2 years
- Remain in refugee or asylee status or have become a permanent resident (received a Green Card).
- Family relationship had to exist before you came to the United States as a refugee or were granted asylum.
Reuniting refugee and asylee families is not just a moral obligation but also a step toward fostering resilience and self-sufficiency. Streamlining reunification efforts and supporting newly resettled families strengthen the social fabric and uphold the values of compassion and inclusion.
File Form I-730, Refugee/Asylee Relative Petition. (This form is free to file. To download the form and instructions, see the I-730, Refugee/Asylee Relative Petition