“OTHER MATTERS” – PERMANENT RESIDENT STATUS FOR LIBERIANS
Great news buried in the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for fiscal year 2020! Under “Other Matters” is section 7611, Liberian Refugee Immigration Fairness (LRIF) which gives eligible Liberians the right to apply for adjustment of status to that of a legal permanent resident and U.S. citizenship after five years.
LRIF was signed into law on December 20, 2019 and USCIS has begun accepting adjustment of status applications up until December 20, 2020. Eligibility is based on:
- continuous physical presence in the United States from November 20, 2014 to the date of filing;
- establishing Liberian nationality;
- be otherwise eligible to receive an immigrant visa and admissibility in the U.S.;
- spouses, unmarried children under 21 and unmarried sons and daughters over twenty one of eligible Liberian nationals are also eligible.
Be aware that convictions of ANY aggravated felony and two or more crimes involving moral turpitude renders you ineligible unless you are to apply for and get an approved waiver. Participation in the persecution of any person or groups makes you ineligible.
There is only 1 year to file your application so make sure you get started on the proper documentation early.