US Embassy in South Africa Provides Key information on Refugee Resettlement through FAQ’s
The US Embassy provided key information published an update on their website on 24 March 2025. The announcement from the US Embassy in South Africa, provides significant details regarding the Executive Order issued by President Donald J. Trump on February 7, 2025. This order, pivotal in its aim to facilitate the resettlement of specifically identified minority groups in South Africa, including the Afrikaners, has been a focal point of US policy discussions. This release marks the first substantial communication from the US Embassy in South Africa in weeks, offering a positive indication that the resettlement process is advancing in both Washington D.C. and the State Department.
The communication, which was published on the US Embassy’s official website https://za.usembassy.gov/prm-refugee-resettlement-frequently-asked-questions/, provides comprehensive responses to frequently asked questions (FAQ’s) about the U.S. Refugee Admissions Program (USRAP). The embassy has emphasized that the process is designed to assist those who qualify for Refugee status under the USRAP. The US Embassy also reassured South Africans that sent emails to pretoriaprminfo@state.gov that they are reviewing messages and will contact applicants if they need more information.
Highlights from the FAQ include:
About USRAP: The program offers a legal pathway for refugees to resettle in the United States, allowing for permanent residency after one year and eligibility for citizenship after five years.
Eligibility and Process: Eligibility for USRAP is determined by the President through Presidential Determinations, with the process including extensive security and medical checks to ensure the safety and health of both the refugees and the U.S. public.
Application Cautions: Access to the program is free, and applicants are warned against scams that ask for payments or favors in exchange for accelerated processing.
If you are interested in the refugee program and have not yet done so, the US Embassy in Pretoria urge all interested people to officially register their interest in the refugee program by email, directly at pretoriaprminfo@state.gov. This ensures that all applicants receive accurate information and guidance on next steps through authorized channels.
For further details, applicants are encouraged to visit the US Embassy website link provided in the announcement and review the comprehensive list of FAQs provided by the State Department. This information is crucial for those considering the resettlement offer and provides essential guidance on navigating the complexities of international refugee policies and procedures.
PRM Refugee Resettlement FAQ
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 (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.
Secretary Marco Rubio Highlights U.S. Commitment to South African Afrikaners Amid Threats of Violence through “Kill the Boer” chants.
In a poignant statement released on X, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio expressed serious concerns about the ongoing threats faced by minority groups in South Africa, particularly the Afrikaners also known as Boers. The post by Secretary Rubio comes at a critical time, coinciding with South Africa’s recent Heritage Day, and casts a spotlight on the incendiary chants such as “Kill the Boer” that have marred the day’s observances in previous years. Such chants have not been officially declared as hate speech by South African authorities, contributing to the heightened vulnerabilities faced by these communities.
Secretary Rubio’s message was clear and direct: “’Kill the Boer’ is a chant that incites violence. South Africa’s leaders and politicians must take action to protect Afrikaner and other disfavored minorities. The United States is proud to offer those individuals who qualify for admission to our nation amid this continued horrible threat of violence.” This statement underscores a grave concern regarding the safety of these minorities and the perceived inaction of the South African government to counteract these threats.
The U.S. State Department, under Secretary Rubio’s guidance, has placed the issue of Afrikaner resettlement as a priority within their refugee program, signaling strong diplomatic and humanitarian support for those affected. This move aligns with the current President Trump’s Executive Order to take action to protect Afrikaner and other disfavored minorities in South Africa.
The implications of Rubio’s statement are significant, reflecting a commitment to human rights and the protection of minorities. It also hints at potential strains in U.S.-South Africa relations, especially if actions to curb violence against ethnic minorities remain insufficient. As the situation develops, the international community and prospective refugees will be closely watching the responses from both South African leaders and the U.S. initiatives aimed at providing refuge to those in dire need.
SACCUSA is committed to keeping South African businesses and individuals informed as new updates emerge. Those seeking official information on the refugee application process can direct inquiries to ptretoriaprminfo@state.gov or regularly check in on our website, and get alerts at https://www.sachamberusa.com
Please note:
- SACCUSA does not process, approve, or facilitate refugee applications—we only provide updates and information.
- All official refugee applications must be submitted through the U.S. government and relevant immigration authorities at USCIS.
- SACCUSA does not provide legal or immigration advice.
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