The United States Government has announced the suspension of the U.S. Refugee Admissions Program (USRAP).
The suspension will impact refugee travel (for those already approved) and case processing (for those waiting for their RSC Asia Pre-screening, USCIS interview or their USCIS decision).
UNHCR is awaiting further guidance from the U.S. government regarding the impact of this new order on refugees currently in the process of resettlement to the United States. More information will be shared once we receive it.
UNHCR advises all refugees whose cases were submitted by UNHCR to the USRAP not to make any major life changes based on anticipated resettlement. For example, do not stop any income generating activities, leave school or accommodations, or sell belongings in preparation for resettlement.
Please ensure you continue to carry valid UNHCR-issued documentation in Indonesia and update UNHCR of any changes to your contact information, family composition, or protection needs in Indonesia. If you have any immediate urgent protection needs, please contact UNHCR and our partners through the hotlines provided on the HELP website.
Please be careful and alert to possible scams and/or fraudulent messages or offers. Unscrupulous actors may seek to take advantage of this situation and try to exploit you or your community members by offering false promises of expedited resettlement in exchange for money, services, or other favors. Always keep in mind:
- The suspension of the USRAP applies to all refugees who have been submitted for refugee resettlement to the United States, at all stages of processing. Do not believe anyone who tells you they can help you depart your host country more quickly or expedite your case. This is not true. Always verify information with UNHCR before taking any action.
- If your USRAP case was submitted by a sponsor, please be aware that sponsors are not able to help you depart your host country more quickly or expedite your case.
- Do not trust any messages related to the status of your resettlement case or your travel unless officially communicated by the U.S. Government, or authorized staff of UNHCR, IOM, or RSC Asia. In case of any doubt, please contact UNHCR Indonesia at [email protected].
Remember that all UNHCR services are free of charge, including all resettlement services.
Additional information about the USRAP suspension and your specific case will be shared via the HELP site or directly with you as it becomes available. You do not need to take any action at this time.
