Refugees can receive documents from several agencies and organizations during travel, admission, and resettlement. Keep a permanent file rather than assuming every record can easily be replaced later.
Immigration and identity records
Preserve copies of passports or travel documents, Form I-94 records, admission documents, USCIS notices, Employment Authorization Documents if issued, Social Security records, and later immigration filings and decisions.
Resettlement records
Keep important records from the resettlement agency or sponsor, especially documents that identify services received, appointments, referrals, housing arrangements, or other information you may need to reconstruct your first months in the United States.
Not every resettlement paper is an immigration document. Separate immigration records from service-provider paperwork so important status documents are easy to find.
Health and vaccination records
Preserve overseas medical or vaccination records and U.S. medical records that may later be needed. Keep translations with foreign-language records when available.
Build a permanent timeline
Record your U.S. admission date, addresses, major immigration filings, travel, and important notices. A simple timeline can make later Green Card and citizenship preparation much easier.
Keep originals secure
Use scans for everyday reference and store irreplaceable originals safely. If you move, update the appropriate government agencies directly; changing an address with a resettlement organization does not necessarily update USCIS.
Official resources
This page provides general organizational information, not legal advice.