In-Country Refugee Processing Available for Children from El Salvador, Guatemala & Honduras

The State Department has announced the establishment of in-country refugee processing of children of parents lawfully residing in the United States.  Starting in December, a parent lawfully residing in the U.S. can initiate an in-country refugee interview for his/her children residing in El Salvador, Guatemala, or Honduras to determine whether the child qualifies for refugee protection.  The program creates an application process in the home country for minor children so that they do not have to make the dangerous trip to the U.S. to apply for asylum.  In some instances, the remaining parent may also apply with the minor children.  Requests for refugee interviews must be initiated by the parent lawfully residing in the U.S., who must file the application through an existing refugee resettlement agency.  Undocumented parents residing in the U.S. cannot participate in this program on behalf of their children.