How is a refugee defined?

A refugee is defined as an individual who is outside their home country and is unable or unwilling to return due to a well-founded fear of persecution based on specific protected grounds, such as race, religion, nationality, political opinion, or membership in a particular social group. This definition aligns with the criteria set forth in both U.S. immigration law and international treaties.

Choosing the option that describes an alien outside the U.S. unable to return to their country accurately captures the essence of what it means to be a refugee. This situation arises from circumstances beyond the individual's control, often linked to conflict, violence, or oppressive regimes, which prevents them from safely returning home.

Other options do not accurately represent the definition of a refugee. An individual with criminal charges does not inherently relate to refugee status, as the focus is on persecution rather than legal issues. Similarly, an alien seeking temporary work is not defined by the threat of persecution but rather by their intent to seek employment. Lastly, a citizen of the U.S. seeking asylum is a mischaracterization because asylum is a form of protection available to those already in the U.S. rather than a status that applies to individuals outside the country.