VECINA
Green Card Applications for Afghan Asylees
Help Afghan evacuees take the next step on their path to permanent safety in the U.S.
Posted January 25, 2024
Background & Context
When the U.S. withdrew from Afghanistan in August 2021, we evacuated more than 80,000 at-risk Afghans to the U.S. Many have since applied for and been granted asylum Their next important step on the path to permanent safety in the U.S. is applying for "adjustment of status" -- the process of becoming a lawful permanent resident, often referred to as a green card holder.
Immediate Problem
VECINA is seeking volunteer attorneys to assist Afghans granted asylum in filing their applications for adjustment of status.
Work & Deliverables
An attorney representing an adjustment of status applicant will need to work with their client to fill out the adjustment of status application form and a fee waiver application form, gather supporting documents, and submit the application to USCIS. We estimate that this will require between 2 and 4 client meetings.
Preparation Phase
- Begin training (via online course)
- Sign volunteer agreement with VECINA
- Complete VECINA's Sign Up Form to get looped into the project
- Wait to be matched with client
Collaboration Phase
- File client's application with USCIS
- Incorporate feedback from mentoring attorney
- Potentially, prepare fee waiver application and supporting documents
- Prepare application and supporting documents
- Get to know client and facts of client's case
Wrap Up
- Explain next steps to client
VECINA
VECINA’s mission is to empower immigrant justice advocates through mentoring attorneys, educating communities, and mobilizing volunteers. Immigrants are facing one of the most difficult times in our nation’s history, so it’s more important than ever that immigrant justice advocates fight on behalf of immigrants’ rights. Immigrant justice advocates are battling fierce opposition, fatigue, and a constantly-changing landscape. Many attorneys are looking for ways to help but don’t have the tools necessary to provide effective representation. VECINA has expert mentors and training attorneys ready to equip pro bono attorneys with the necessary knowledge and skills to provide zealous advocacy.
VECINA
VECINA’s mission is to empower immigrant justice advocates through mentoring attorneys, educating communities, and mobilizing volunteers. Immigrants are facing one of the most difficult times in our nation’s history, so it’s more important than ever that immigrant justice advocates fight on behalf of immigrants’ rights. Immigrant justice advocates are battling fierce opposition, fatigue, and a constantly-changing landscape. Many attorneys are looking for ways to help but don’t have the tools necessary to provide effective representation. VECINA has expert mentors and training attorneys ready to equip pro bono attorneys with the necessary knowledge and skills to provide zealous advocacy.
