How many years must refugees be present in the US to become Lawful Permanent Residents (LPR)?

To become a Lawful Permanent Resident (LPR) in the United States, refugees must generally wait for a minimum of one year before applying for adjustment of status. This one-year period is crucial as it allows refugees to establish residency and adapt to life in the U.S. It also fulfills the requirement set forth by U.S. immigration law that ensures individuals have had sufficient time to settle into their new circumstances following their resettlement.

After spending one year in refugee status, individuals are eligible to apply for a Green Card, which grants them LPR status. Meeting this requirement is vital as it is part of the process that verifies the individual's commitment to residing in the U.S. and following through with the legal migration process.

Other options, like six months or three years, do not align with the established criteria for refugees applying for LPR status. The five-year requirement typically applies to LPR applicants who may be seeking citizenship, but this comes after they have already obtained their LPR status.