US Refugee Admissions Program
For people outside the US who are referred for resettlement because they fear persecution at home.
The US Refugee Admissions Program is a US humanitarian & refugee visa. This guide covers who it's for, the key eligibility criteria, the indicative 2025 cost (No application fee) and processing time (~1-3 years or more for screening and security checks), the route to permanent residence, common pitfalls and FAQs.
Who the US Refugee Admissions Program is for
For people outside the US who are referred for resettlement because they fear persecution at home.
Refugees must apply for a green card 1 year after admission, then citizenship later.
US Refugee Admissions Program - eligibility criteria
- Be outside the United States
- Fear persecution on a protected ground
- Receive a qualifying referral (e.g. UNHCR or US program)
- Pass security, medical and background screening
- Not be firmly resettled in another country
US Refugee Admissions Program cost & processing time (2025)
The indicative government fee for the US Refugee Admissions Program (United States) is No application fee, with an indicative processing time of ~1-3 years or more for screening and security checks. Figures are for 2025 and may change - confirm at U.S. Department of State (travel.state.gov).
| Type | Settlement |
|---|---|
| Where you apply | Applied for from outside the US (usually via UNHCR or US referral) |
| Length of stay | Indefinite refugee status; must apply for a green card after 1 year |
| Work rights | Work authorization on arrival in the US |
| Study rights | Study permitted |
| Government fee | No application fee |
| Processing time | ~1-3 years or more for screening and security checks |
| Route to PR | Refugees must apply for a green card 1 year after admission, then citizenship later. |
Pathway & next steps
Refugees must apply for a green card 1 year after admission, then citizenship later.
Many applicants also compare Asylum · Asylum in the United States, Green Card · Adjustment of Status (Green Card in the US). Run a free VisaChief check to see which US route best fits your profile, then prepare an application reviewed by a registered migration agency in our partner network.
Common US Refugee Admissions Program pitfalls we fix
US Refugee Admissions Program - frequently asked questions
How much does the US Refugee Admissions Program cost?
The US Refugee Admissions Program government fee is No application fee. Figures are indicative for 2025; always confirm current fees at U.S. Department of State (travel.state.gov) before applying.
How long does the US Refugee Admissions Program take to process?
Indicative processing time is ~1-3 years or more for screening and security checks. Actual timeframes vary with caseload, completeness and your circumstances.
Does the US Refugee Admissions Program lead to permanent residence?
Refugees must apply for a green card 1 year after admission, then citizenship later.
Can I work on the US Refugee Admissions Program?
Work rights: Work authorization on arrival in the US.
Who can apply for the US Refugee Admissions Program?
For people outside the US who are referred for resettlement because they fear persecution at home.
Sources & official references
This guide is compiled from official United States government sources and is updated periodically. Eligibility, fees and processing times change - always confirm the current rules with the issuing authority before you apply:
- U.S. Department of State (travel.state.gov) - official United States immigration authority