U.S. Refugee Admissions Program FAQs

Understanding the U.S. Refugee Admissions Program (USRAP)
Official Information from the U.S. Embassy in South Africa – March 24, 2025

Who is a refugee?
Under U.S. law, a refugee is a person who is outside their country of nationality (or, if no nationality, country of last habitual residence) and who is unable or unwilling to return to that country or is unable to avail themselves of the protection of that country because of past persecution or has a well-founded fear of persecution on account of race, religion, nationality, membership in a particular social group, or political opinion. In certain circumstances, specified by the President of the United States, individuals who are within their country of nationality may also be considered a refugee for purposes of admission to the United States. One such specification is in certain circumstances, persons identified by a U.S. embassy or by an authorized State Department referral partner in any location.

What is the United States Refugee Admissions Program (USRAP)?
The USRAP is the legal pathway through which individuals who are refugees under U.S. law may be resettled to the United States. Refugees must apply for permanent residency (a green card) one year after arriving in the United States. Refugees may then apply to become a U.S. citizen five years after the date of their admission to lawful permanent residence. Refugees are authorized to work in the United States.

Do I need to pay a fee to access the USRAP?
Access to the U.S. Refugee Admissions Program is free. Beware of any scams or potential exploitation. No one should pay any fees or favors in return for access to the program or to unauthorized individuals claiming to be able to assist or expedite your resettlement case.

Who is eligible for a referral to the USRAP?
The President defines who may be eligible through Presidential Determination on U.S. Refugee Admissions or Report to Congress on Proposed Refugee Admissions.

What are all the steps involved in USRAP processing?
USRAP processing includes an interview with the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to determine if the applicant is eligible for refugee status, security checks, and medical exams. All applicants must complete the full security screening process – both biographic and biometrics checks – which is the most rigorous of all travelers to the United States. Any applicant unable to successfully complete the required security vetting process is not allowed to enter the United States.

Can I fly to the United States now and claim asylum on arrival? Can I apply from the United States if I’m already there on a temporary visa?
You must be located outside of the United States to access a referral to the USRAP and to undergo USRAP processing.

Can I maintain citizenship from my country of origin after becoming a U.S. citizen?
U.S. law generally would not require you to renounce your country-of-origin citizenship.
Please consult the laws of your country of origin regarding dual citizenship.

If you are interested in the U.S. Refugee Admissions Program:
📩 Email your interest to: [email protected]
🔗 For more details, visit: https://za.usembassy.gov