USCIS Issues Policy Guidance Regarding Liberian Refugee Immigration Fairness

April 7, 2020

U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services today issued policy guidance regarding eligibility requirements, filing and adjudication of adjustment of status applications based on the Liberian Refugee Immigration Fairness (LRIF) provision in the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2020.

The guidance issued today:

• Clarifies the eligibility requirements to adjust status based on LRIF;
• Provides guidance on the evidence applicants must submit to adjust their status based on LRIF; and
• Explains that LRIF adjustment applicants may apply for employment authorization.

LRIF allows certain Liberian nationals and their spouses, unmarried children under 21 years old, and unmarried sons and daughters 21 years old or older living in the United States who meet the eligibility requirements to apply for permanent residence (Green Card). Aliens applying to adjust status based on LRIF must properly complete and file Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status, by Dec. 20, 2020. Under LRIF, once an applicant adjusts status, they are immediately eligible to apply for naturalization.

If you have any questions about these policy provisions and guidelines, feel free to contact our office.

---