Refugee and Asylee Employment

There are various resources to support employers looking to hire immigrants, refugees, and asylees. Many of these individuals have authorization to work in the United States, and below are some resources to understand the documentation required and how to avoid discrimination during the hiring process.   

The US Department of Justice offers an employer hotline for all your questions: 1-800-255-8155

What are the different status types?  

Status types for displaced migrants living in the U.S. include, but are not limited to:  

• Refugees 
• Humanitarian Parolees 
• Temporary Protected Status (TPS) and Special Immigrant Visa (SIV) holders 
• Asylees and Asylum Seekers 
• Victims of Human Trafficking 
• Victims of Criminal Activity 

Individuals with the above status types are typically work-authorized, but their work-authorization document types may vary. For more information, visit the Office of Refugee Resettlement to learn more.  

Why Hire Refugees and Asylees?

Refugees and Asylees bring a wealth of skills and experience to the workforce. They are often multilingual, adaptable, and eager to contribute. Hiring refugees can also strengthen your company's reputation for social responsibility.

Is it Legal to Hire Refugees and Asylees?

Yes! Refugees and Asylees who have gone through the legal immigration process are authorized to work in the United States. The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) offers resources to clarify the legal requirements for employers. 

• Check out their Handbook for Employers M-274 

Required Paperwork

The paperwork involved in hiring a refugee/asylee is similar to hiring any authorized worker in the United States. Here are the key documents: 

• Form I-9: This form is required for all new hires to verify their identity and employment authorization. View this Reference Guide for more information. 
• Refugee/Asylee Documents: 
• Form I-94: Arrival/departure record with refugee admission stamp and work authorization notation.  
• Employment Authorization Document (EAD): Work permit (Form I-766). 

How do I find Qualified Job Candidates?

There is no central database specifically for refugees, but here are some effective strategies: 

• Partner with Refugee Resettlement Agencies: These organizations can connect you with qualified candidates and offer guidance on the interview process.  
• Find an agency in Rhode Island – A full list of RI organizations 
• HHS.gov: Find a Refugee Resettlement Agency in your area https://www.acf.hhs.gov/orr/map/find-resources-and-contacts-your-state 
• Review this helpful Hiring Guide from Tent.Org 

Additional Resources

• Employer Information on Immigrant and Employee Rights from the US Department of Justice’s Civil Rights Division  
• USDOJ Employer Hotline: 1-800-255-8155 
• Form I-9 Handbook for Employers from US Citizenship and Immigration Services 
• Employer’s Guide to Fostering Inclusion for Refugees in the Workplace by Tent.org 
• Preferred Refugee Employer Program by Global Refuge 
• The Department of Human Services’ Refugee Assistance Program & Refugee Resources