Liberian Refugee Immigration Fairness (LRIF) Provides Pathway to Permanent Residency for Eligible Liberian Nationals

Written by: Ashik R. Jahan

As of December 26, 2019, Liberian immigrants that have been in the United States since November 20, 2014 may be eligible for permanent legal status. The Liberian Refugee Immigration Fairness Act (LRIFA) is a special law that allows Liberian nationals who have lived in the United States during this period to apply for an “adjustment of status” to that of a legal permanent resident (Green Card). Any Liberian who has been continuously present in the United States during this period may be eligible for permanent legal status, even if they have been unlawfully present in the U.S. or entered the U.S. without inspection.  This would include individuals on Deferred Enforced Departure (DED).   Expedited processing of Employment Authorization Applications may also be possible through March 30, 2020 as well for those with DED based employment authorization documents.   See:  https://www.uscis.gov/green-card/other-ways-get-green-card/liberian-refugee-immigration-fairness

However, there are some who may not be eligible for adjustment of status, such as those with certain criminal convictions, those that have not maintained “continuous” residence in the United States or those that partook in the Liberian Civil War. If you would like more information on LRIFA, please contact Hall, Booth Smith’s immigration team.   For additional information see:  https://www.ilcm.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/AHR-BIC-LRIFA-2019-FAQs-12.19.2019.pdf