Downloadable flyers available for prospective licensees in multiple languages
Farsi is one of 15 languages in which information is available to refugees, asylees, and holders of special immigrant permits regarding expedited licensure. View more at https://www.dca.ca.gov/about_us/ab2113.shtml
The California Department of Consumer Affairs’ (DCA) expedited licensure process is one of the ways California supports individuals who are refugees, asylees and holders of special immigrant visas. DCA’s 36 boards and bureaus license and regulate numerous professions and occupations including physicians, cosmetologists, accountants and auto repair shops, to name a few.
Individuals who are seeking licensure and are a refugee, asylee or holder of a special immigrant visa may be eligible for the expedited licensure application process in California. Information about expedited licensure is available online, including downloadable flyers with information about the process, eligibility, required documentation and more in 15 languages.
As of January 1, 2021, individuals in the following categories may have their applications expedited:
- Refugees pursuant to section 1157 of title 8 of the United States Code
- Those granted asylum by the Secretary of Homeland Security or the Attorney General of the United States pursuant to section 1158 of title 8 of the United States Code
- Individuals with a special immigrant visa that have been granted a status pursuant to section 1244 of Public Law 110-181, Public Law 109-163, or section 602(b) of title VI of division F of Public Law 111-8.
Applicants wishing to receive the expedited licensure process will need to show proof of their refugee, asylee, or special immigrant visa status when submitting their application package. Among the documents license applicants can submit are:
- Form I-94, Arrival/Departure Record, with an admission class code such as “RE” (Refugee) or “AY” (Asylee) or other information designating the person a refugee or asylee
- Special immigrant visa that includes the classification codes of “SI” or “SQ”
- Permanent Resident Card (Form I-551), commonly known as a “Green Card,” with a category designation indicating that the person was admitted as a refugee or asylee
- An order from a court of competent jurisdiction or other documentary evidence that provides reasonable assurance that the applicant qualifies for expedited licensure
The expedited process isn’t a guarantee a license will be approved, rather that the process will be expedited. Applicants with questions are advised to call the specific board and bureau they submit their application to or email refugee@dca.ca.gov. Those needing language assistance can place a no-cost call to (833) 498-2006. To learn more or to download the flyers, visit [add link to website].
Additional Resources:
The Department of Social Services’ Refugee Resettlement Program assists eligible refugees, asylees, special immigrant visa holders, and other eligible persons to resettle in California. For more information visit: https://www.cdss.ca.gov/refugee-services.
