Understanding the U.S. Refugee Admissions Program (USRAP) for Afrikaners

The U.S. Refugee Admissions Program (USRAP) has recently introduced specific provisions for individuals of Afrikaner ethnicity and other racial minorities in South Africa. This initiative, stemming from President Trump’s Executive Order 14204, aims to address the challenges faced by these communities due to unjust racial discrimination. Here’s a detailed look at the program, its partners, and essential information for potential applicants.

Eligibility Criteria

To qualify for U.S. resettlement consideration under this initiative, applicants must meet several key criteria:

• Nationality: Applicants must be South African citizens.
• Ethnicity: They should identify as Afrikaner or belong to a racial minority in South Africa.
• Persecution Experience: Individuals must articulate a past experience of persecution or express a fear of future persecution.
• Age Requirement: Applicants must be at least 18 years old or be referred with a parent, as defined by the Immigration and Nationality Act.

If you meet these criteria and wish to be considered for referral to the USRAP, you should complete and submit the Statement of Interest form.

Role of USRAP Partners

The USRAP operates through designated partners who assist applicants throughout the process. Two primary organizations involved are RSC Africa, operated by Church World Service (CWS), and Amerikaners. Here’s how each contributes:

Amerikaners

• Acts as a designated referral partner for the Department of State.
• Gathers information from potential applicants to assess eligibility for referral to the USRAP.
• Refers eligible cases to the Department of State.

RSC Africa (CWS)

• Also serves as a designated referral partner.
• Conducts pre-screen interviews to gather necessary information and documentation.
• Requests background checks and schedules USCIS interviews.
• Arranges medical exams and books travel to the United States.

It’s important to note that neither RSC Africa/CWS nor Amerikaners make eligibility determinations; that authority rests solely with the Department of Homeland Security (DHS).

Application Process

Once you submit your Statement of Interest form, you do not need to re-submit it. The Department of State’s referral partners will process the submissions and reach out to applicants for further information. Given the high volume of interest, responses may take time.

Not all individuals contacted by referral partners will be referred to the USRAP. The U.S. government evaluates various factors, including eligibility criteria and background check results, when making access decisions.

Free Access to USRAP

Access to the USRAP is entirely free, including the completion of the Statement of Interest form. Neither RSC Africa/CWS nor Amerikaners charge fees for their referral services. Applicants should be cautious of scams or unauthorized individuals claiming to expedite the resettlement process for a fee. Always maintain control over your identity documents and report any fraudulent activities.

Travel Arrangements

For those approved for resettlement, travel arrangements must be made through RSC Africa, the only official partner authorized to book travel for refugees from South Africa to the United States. Any travel arranged by other entities is not supported by the USRAP and could jeopardize your ability to enter the U.S.

If you have questions about your travel after receiving USCIS approval, it’s essential to contact RSC Africa directly.

Important Notice Regarding Pets

There has been confusion regarding the transportation of pets for refugees. Operation Pet Lyft is not affiliated with the U.S. Department of State or the USRAP. Misleading claims have circulated about their ability to coordinate pet travel, which is inaccurate.

The U.S. government does not assist in or fund the transportation of pets under the USRAP. Refugees wishing to bring pets to the U.S. should make independent arrangements after arrival. It’s advisable to wait at least 90 days post-arrival before facilitating pet travel, as initial housing may not accommodate pets.

Reporting Fraud

If you encounter anyone claiming to assist with pet travel or expedite your USRAP application, it’s crucial to report such fraud. The U.S. government encourages vigilance and caution in these matters to protect applicants from exploitation.

By understanding the USRAP’s structure, eligibility criteria, and the roles of its partners, potential applicants can navigate the process more effectively and safely.