Thousands of Afghan evacuees in the United States face complex immigration challenges as they seek to establish permanent legal status. Many arrived through various humanitarian programs including humanitarian parole, Special Immigrant Visas (SIV), asylum claims, refugee status, or Temporary Protected Status (TPS) - all requiring additional legal steps to secure permanent residency.

Immigration experts strongly recommend pursuing permanent status applications as soon as possible, while warning that the process can be complicated and often requires professional legal assistance. Numerous organizations and attorneys offer free or low-cost services to help navigate these complex procedures.

Temporary Status Challenges

For Afghan evacuees who entered under humanitarian parole but don't qualify for SIV programs, their legal status is particularly precarious. Humanitarian parole typically lasts only two years, and parolees cannot directly apply for green cards. Those needing to extend their protection must apply for "re-parole," while simultaneously pursuing other pathways to permanent residency.

Potential Pathways Forward

For many parolees, asylum applications may present the most viable option. Those who fled Afghanistan due to persecution and lack SIV or refugee status may qualify. While the asylum process can be lengthy, it provides a potential route to remain legally in the U.S. Applicants generally must file within one year of arrival, though those with unexpired parole may still be eligible.

Refugees who entered through official resettlement programs can apply for green cards after one year in the country, with assistance available through their resettlement agencies.

Temporary Protected Status Considerations

TPS offers temporary legal status that can be held concurrently with other immigration classifications. However, TPS alone doesn't provide a path to permanent residency. Evacuees should carefully evaluate whether to pursue TPS alongside other applications.

Available Support Services

New arrivals may qualify for various assistance programs including:

  • Cash assistance (amount and duration vary by household size, age, and location)
  • Childcare cost assistance for families with children
  • Employment support services including resume preparation
  • English language classes and vocational training

Legal advocates emphasize the urgency for Afghan evacuees to explore all available options before temporary protections expire. "Don't miss any opportunity to secure your family's future," advises one immigration attorney working with Afghan clients. "Whether it's applying for status changes or finding appropriate legal help, taking action now is crucial to building stable lives in America."

With multiple complex pathways available - each with different requirements and timelines - experts strongly recommend consulting with accredited legal representatives to determine the best course of action based on individual circumstances.