Refugee Assistance

    Expedited Licensure Process for Refugees, Asylees, and Holders of Special Immigrant Visas (SIVs)

    This page is intended to assist individuals seeking an expedited licensure process as required by Business and Professions Code section 135.4. Beginning 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; or,
    • 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.

    In order to receive the expedited licensure process, individuals must provide evidence of their refugee, asylee, or special immigrant visa status when submitting their application package. Documentation below are examples that can be used:

    • 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.

    Failure to provide documentation may result in a delay in expediting the application review.

    Please note that this does not mean a license/registration must be issued, but simply that the process will be expedited.

    If you have any questions or require further assistance, please contact CSLB by emailing refugees@cslb.ca.gov. If you need assistance in a language other than English, language assistance services are available at no cost. Call (800) 321-CSLB (2752).

    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 about the program, click here: https://www.cdss.ca.gov/refugee-services.