The United States Government has announced the suspension of the U.S. Refugee Admissions Program (USRAP). 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.
In the meantime, since there is no way to know how long the suspension will last, take careful note of the following
- Do not make any major life changes based on anticipated resettlement. For example, do not leave employment, leave school or sell belongings or property in preparation of resettlement. Please take any possible steps to ensure your legal protection in Türkiye. These steps may include carrying specific documentation, following up on asylum processes, obtaining certain documents in the country of asylum, etc.
- 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 favours. Always keep in mind:
- The suspension of refugee resettlement to the United States applies to all refugees, at all stages of processing, so do not believe anyone who tells you they can help you from Türkiye 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 cannot help you depart 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 ICMC. In case of any doubt, please contact UNHCR through the counseling line at 4444868.
- Stay connected and maintain open communication with UNHCR to obtain latest updates as and when they become available.
- Remember that all UNHCR services are free of charge, including all resettlement services.
- Additional information about the resettlement suspension (and your specific case) will be shared as it becomes available. You do not need to take any action at this time.
- We know this operational suspension may create challenges to you and your family. Please know that you still have international protection in Türkiye.
- If you have any questions about your resettlement process, please contact UNHCR through the counseling line at 4444868