Asylum seekers must file Form I-589 (affirmative asylum) or present a acceptable fear claim in expedited contexts; timing is critical in both scenarios.
Early triage at intake—confirming identity, arrival status, any U.S. government agreement, and existing case numbers—is essential. Quick, accurate intake saves evidence, preserves deadlines (for asylum, SIV follow-up, or benefits), and helps coordinate housing, medical care, and legal transfer. The sections below give copy-pasteable intake text, a short indexable reference table of arrival organization, and an accessible FAQ for clients and intake staff.
Afghans work their way through U.S. immigration system
By Brian D. Lerner — Practical intake guidance, common legal pathways, and immediate next steps for evacuees and sponsors.
Common arrival classifications — quick reference
| Entry Class | What to look for (documents) | Immediate next steps |
|---|---|---|
| Special Immigrant Visa (SIV) | SIV approval notice, immigrant visa packet, DS-260 confirmation, beneficiary A-number | Confirm SIV packet completeness; resume adjustment filings and benefits enrollment as eligible. |
| Humanitarian / Evacuation Parole | Parole letter, I-94 with parole stamp, any DoS/DoD evacuation records | Check parole period; assist with Form I-765 (EAD) if eligible; connect to community services. |
| Affirmative or Defensive Asylum | I-589 receipt (affirmative), credible fear notes (if applicable), court hearing notices | Ensure timely filing, collect evidence, and link with asylum counsel for case strategy. |
| Family-based petitioner beneficiary | I-130 receipt/approval, consular appointment / immigrant visa paperwork | Coordinate document collection and consular processing or domestic adjustment steps. |
Immediate intake checklist
- Full legal name(s) and alternate spellings; date/place of birth.
- Date of U.S. arrival, port of entry, and any immigration document (parole letter, I-94, SIV packet, DS-260, I-589 receipts).
- Any U.S. government correspondence (Department of State, Department of Defense, USCIS notices) and assigned A-number if issued.
- Proof of qualifying employment for SIVs (employer letters, contracts); family relationship evidence for family petitions.
- Medical needs, vaccinations, urgent care; translation needs and preferred contact method (WhatsApp, phone, email).
- Any prior removals, criminal history, or immigration filings — flag for immediate counsel review.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between SIV and parole?
SIV is an immigrant visa pathway leading to lawful permanent residence for qualifying applicants with U.S. government affiliation; humanitarian parole is temporary authorization to enter the U.S. and does not itself confer permanent status, though it may allow an EAD (work permit).
Can evacuees get a work permit?
Many parolees and some other entrants are eligible to apply for an Employment Authorization Document (Form I-765). Eligibility and processing times vary—submit EAD applications promptly when intake confirms eligibility.
When should I refer someone to immigration counsel?
Refer immediately if the client has SIV paperwork to complete, any removal history, criminal records, or if they intend to file asylum—early legal triage preserves deadlines and strengthens submissions.
What documents are most important at intake?
Passport/ID, evacuation/parole letters, any DOS/DoD correspondence, proof of qualifying employment for SIVs, and medical/vaccination records. Scan everything and store securely in the client file.