This is a guide on refugee benefits and resettlement in the U.S., which is developed in Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) format. In this guide, we address common queries and concerns about refugee benefits in the U.S. resettlement process, aiming to provide clarity and guidance to individuals navigating the complexities of the process. This information is based on the understanding of the "Beporsed" team from various sources and is not legal advice. This guide is updated on 5th February 2024. For legal guidance and advice, we recommend consulting official sources. Afghan SIV recipients are eligible for various benefits upon their arrival in the United States. Some benefits are akin to those provided to refugees admitted under the U.S. Refugee Admissions Program (USRAP)
Join us as we navigate the essential questions surrounding on the refugee benefits in the U.S. resettlement process, empowering individuals with knowledge and support on their journey to resettlement.
What Benefits Are Available to Afghan Special Immigrant Visa (SIV) Recipients?
Afghan SIV recipients are eligible for various benefits upon their arrival in the United States. One significant benefit is resettlement assistance, which is available under section 602(b) of Division F, Title VI, of the Omnibus Appropriations Act for Fiscal Year 2009, Public Law 111-8. This assistance is provided to Afghans admitted to the United States on Special Immigrant Visas and lasts for a period not exceeding few months.
The U.S. Department of State’s Reception and Placement (R&P) Program typically covers the initial 30 to 90 days upon your arrival in the United States. During this period, you may receive assistance with essential resettlement needs such as housing, food, and employment support.
Additionally, Afghan SIV recipients may be eligible for various entitlement programs and benefits available to refugees, depending on their circumstances and eligibility criteria.
It's essential to familiarize yourself with the specific benefits and entitlements available to Afghan SIV recipients and to seek guidance and updates from relevant agencies or organizations for assistance in accessing these resources.
Are Afghan Special Immigrants Visa Holder Eligible for Resettlement Benefits?
Yes, Afghan special immigrants are indeed eligible for resettlement assistance and other benefits in the U.S. These benefits are available for a period of up to eight 30 to 90 days after being admitted to the United States.
To access the U.S. Department of State’s Reception and Placement (R&P) Program, which offers basic living assistance and limited support for the initial 30 to 90 days upon arrival, applicants must apply before arriving in the United States. This entails submitting signed copies of the Refugee Benefits Election Form and the Special Immigrant Visa Biodata Form (DS-0234) to U.S. government or its partners such as IOM. These forms should be submitted promptly after visa issuance, with the visa itself being provided no later than 30 calendar days prior to its expiration.
Should applicants opt out of Department of State-funded resettlement benefits, they may still be eligible for benefits funded by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Refugee Resettlement (HHS/ORR). Unlike Department of State-funded benefits, HHS/ORR-funded benefits can be claimed upon arrival in the United States.
How to Obtain a Travel Loan As an Afghan Special Immigrant?
The process of obtaining a travel loan is facilitated by the International Organization for Migration (IOM) once your visa has been issued. This occurs if you have opted to receive travel and resettlement assistance from the U.S. Department of State, which involves submitting scanned, signed copies of the Refugee Benefits Election Form and the Special Immigrant Visa Biodata Form (DS-0234) to the National Visa Center (NVC) or the Refugee Processing Center (RPC).
The interest-free travel loan is arranged through the U.S. Department of State’s Reception and Placement (R&P) Program, and it covers the expenses associated with your travel to the United States. It's essential to apply for this benefit while still overseas.
This travel loan is part of the broader assistance package provided by the Department of State, aimed at facilitating the resettlement process for Afghan Special Immigrants.
How will I know which agency is responsible for providing services to me in the U.S.?
To ascertain which agency will provide services to you upon your arrival in the United States, certain steps must be followed. If you opt to receive Department of State-funded Reception and Placement (R&P) services, you are required to complete and submit scanned copies of specific forms while still overseas.
These forms include the Refugee Benefits Election Form and the Special Immigrant Visa Biodata Form (DS-0234. Additionally, you must submit a copy of your visa once it has been issued. These documents should be sent to the Refugee Processing Center (RPC).
Once your issued visa copy is received, your case will be assigned to a resettlement agency before your departure for the United States. Prior to your departure, the entity responsible for processing your case for R&P benefits, which could be either a Resettlement Support Center (RSC) or the RPC, will provide you with an Assurance Form.
This Assurance Form will outline essential details, such as your final destination in the United States and the resettlement agency that will be tasked with providing services to you upon your arrival.
If I elect to receive refugee benefits, what help will I receive once I am in the U.S., and from whom?
Once you elect to receive refugee benefits upon your arrival in the United States, you will be supported by one of the nine Resettlement Agencies funded by the Department of State. These agencies operate under a cooperative agreement and have over 300 affiliated Reception and Placement offices across the country. They are tasked with providing essential services to assist refugees and Special Immigrant Visa (SIV) recipients in achieving economic self-sufficiency as swiftly as possible.
Upon your arrival, your assigned resettlement agency will offer initial reception and placement services tailored to your specific needs. These services include ensuring housing for your first 30-90 days, assisting with enrolling your children in school, and providing access to English language classes if necessary. Additionally, the agency will facilitate essential tasks such as applying for a Social Security card, accessing employment services, and familiarizing you with U.S. customs and laws.
Furthermore, your resettlement agency will connect you with community services, such as social services, medical assistance, and food stamps, if required. While the agency assists with these activities, your active participation is crucial for a successful transition to life in the United States.
Which agencies in the United States offer resettlement support for immigrants and refugees?
Several agencies in the United States are dedicated to providing resettlement support and assistance to immigrants and refugees. Here is a list of these agencies, along with their website addresses:
- Church World Service (CWS): Visit their website at www.churchworldservice.org
- Episcopal Migration Ministries (EMM): Learn more at https://www.episcopalchurch.org
- Ethiopian Community Development Council (ECDC): Explore their services at www.ecdcinternational.org
- Hebrew Immigrant Aid Society (HIAS): Find out more at www.hias.org
- International Rescue Committee (IRC): Access resources at www.rescue.org
- Lutheran Immigration & Refugee Service (LIRS): Visit their website at www.lirs.org
- U.S. Committee for Refugees and Immigrants (USCRI): Discover their services at www.refugees.org
- United States Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB): Learn more at http://usccb.org/about/migration-and-refugee-services/
- World Relief (WR): Explore their services at https://worldrelief.org
Each of these organizations operates across various locations in the United States. For specific addresses and contact information, please visit their respective websites provided above. These agencies offer vital support to immigrants and refugees, assisting them with resettlement, integration, and accessing essential services as they build new lives in the United States.
Are other benefits available to me, if I decline benefits from the Department of State?
If you choose not to receive resettlement benefits funded by the Department of State, you may still be eligible for benefits provided by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Refugee Resettlement (HHS/ORR). These benefits are administered by states and can be accessed through state benefit-granting agencies.
After your arrival in the United States, you can apply for these benefits in the state where you reside. SIV recipients who opt for the U.S. Department of State Reception and Placement (R&P) Program will receive assistance from their resettlement agency in applying for HHS/ORR-funded benefits. However, if you decide not to participate in the Department of State's R&P Program, you must independently apply for these benefits by contacting the State Refugee Coordinator in your state of residence.
It's recommended to be aware of the benefits available to you and to take the necessary steps to access them to support your resettlement and integration process in the United States.
What is the difference between U.S. Department of State benefits and ORR benefits? Are they part of the same package?
The U.S. Department of State's Reception and Placement (R&P) Program and the Cash and Medical Assistance (CMA) Program administered by the Office of Refugee Resettlement (ORR) are distinct programs managed by separate U.S. Government agencies. While both programs aim to support the resettlement of Special Immigrant Visa (SIV) recipients, they operate independently of each other.
The R&P Program, overseen by the U.S. Department of State, provides initial assistance to SIV recipients upon their arrival in the United States. This assistance includes essential services such as housing, furnishings, food, clothing, cultural orientation, and access to various social, medical, and employment services during the visa recipient’s initial 30 - 90 days in the country. SIV recipients can enroll in the R&P Program through a participating resettlement agency affiliated with the program.
On the other hand, the ORR-funded benefits are administered by individual States and are available through State benefit-granting agencies. These benefits, including cash and medical assistance, can be accessed by SIV recipients after their arrival in the United States, regardless of whether they participate in the R&P Program. SIV recipients can apply for ORR-funded benefits in the State where they reside, either with assistance from their R&P sponsoring agency or independently by contacting the State Refuge Coordinator.
What are the repayment conditions of the travel loan, and what is the interest rate incurred?
The travel loan provided to Afghan Special Immigrant Visa (SIV) recipients is interest-free, offering a financial solution without the burden of interest charges. Repayment of the loan typically commences approximately six months after the recipient's arrival in the United States, allowing for a reasonable period of adjustment before repayment obligations begin.
The loan repayment period spans a total of 42 months, during which the recipient is required to settle the outstanding balance in full. Monthly installment payments, as outlined in the loan note, must be submitted to the designated resettlement agency responsible for managing the loan. Adhering to the repayment schedule is crucial, as it not only fulfills the financial obligation but also contributes to establishing a positive credit history for the recipient within the United States.
It's essential to prioritize loan repayment, as failure to meet repayment obligations could result in the loan being returned to the International Organization for Migration (IOM) or the U.S. Department of State for further collection actions, potentially affecting the recipient's credit standing and financial stability.
If I choose not to participate in the Department of State’s R&P Program, will I be allowed to visit any local doctor for treatment and have it be funded by ORR?
No, individuals who opt out of participating in the Department of State’s Resettlement and Placement (R&P) Program are not automatically eligible for medical benefits funded by the Office of Refugee Resettlement (ORR). Instead, individuals must apply for ORR-funded medical benefits, known as Refugee Medical Assistance (RMA), and meet the eligibility criteria to receive coverage for medical treatment.
Refugee Medical Assistance (RMA) is a program administered by the ORR to provide eligible refugees, including Special Immigrant Visa (SIV) recipients, with access to necessary medical care and services. To qualify for RMA benefits, applicants must meet certain income and eligibility requirements set by the state where they reside. Once approved, individuals can visit designated healthcare providers who accept RMA coverage for medical treatment, including doctor visits, prescriptions, and emergency care.
How long does it take to receive assistance from ORR upon arrival in the United States?
The timeline for receiving assistance from the Office of Refugee Resettlement (ORR) upon arrival in the United States can vary depending on several factors, including the state of residence and the processing times of individual applications. Upon arrival, individuals are encouraged to apply for ORR benefits in the state where they will be residing.
Application processing times vary from state to state, and there is no fixed timeframe for receiving assistance. Once an individual applies for ORR benefits, the application will be processed according to the procedures and timelines established by the state's benefit-granting agencies.
To expedite the process and obtain information about where to apply for ORR benefits, individuals can reach out to ORR representatives or resettlement agencies in their state of residence. These contacts can provide guidance and assistance regarding the application process and help individuals navigate the system to access the necessary support services.
While there is no standard timeframe for receiving ORR assistance, individuals can expect to receive information and guidance on how to access benefits shortly after their arrival in the United States.
Can I apply for ORR benefits and services as soon as I arrive in the United States?
Yes, individuals are strongly encouraged to apply for benefits and services provided by the Office of Refugee Resettlement (ORR) as soon as they arrive in the United States. Eligibility for ORR-funded benefits and services is time-limited by law, so it's essential to initiate the application process promptly upon arrival.
By applying for ORR benefits early, individuals can expedite the process of accessing necessary support services, including cash and medical assistance, employment assistance, language and vocational training, and other essential resources. These benefits are designed to help refugees and other eligible individuals successfully integrate into their new communities and rebuild their lives in the United States.
To apply for ORR benefits, individuals can contact ORR representatives or resettlement agencies in their state of residence. These organizations can provide guidance on the application process, eligibility requirements, and the types of assistance available. It's important for individuals to gather any necessary documentation and information before applying to ensure a smooth and efficient application process.
If I choose not to participate in the U.S. Department of State’s R&P Program, can I apply for a social security card at any office without assistance?"
Yes, SIV recipients who opt out of participating in the U.S. Department of State’s Reception and Placement (R&P) Program can still apply for a social security card at any Social Security Administration (SSA) Field Office without assistance. The process for obtaining a social security card involves visiting the nearest SSA Field Office and completing the necessary application forms.
While SIV applicants who request a social security card on their DS-260 Form (Immigrant Visa Electronic Application) will receive their social security cards by mail, those who choose not to participate in the R&P Program can still apply in person. It's important to ensure that all required documentation, such as proof of identity and immigration status, is available when visiting the SSA Field Office to streamline the application process.
To find the nearest SSA Field Office and learn more about the application process, individuals can visit the Social Security Administration's website.
Where can I find more information about life in the United States and what to expect when I get there?
For comprehensive guidance on transitioning to life in the United States, applicants, particularly Special Immigrant Visa (SIV) recipients, are encouraged to access various resources tailored to their resettlement journey. The Cultural Orientation Resource Exchange (CORE) offers valuable cultural information essential for a smooth transition to life in the U.S. The platform provides a range of resources accessible at https://coresourceexchange.org/refugee-resources/, offering insights into American culture, societal norms, and practical guidance on adapting to the new environment.
Moreover, CORE offers orientation videos specifically designed for SIV applicants relocating to the United States, available at https://coresourceexchange.org/refugee-stories/. These videos offer firsthand accounts and insights from individuals who have undergone similar resettlement experiences, providing valuable perspectives and advice.
Additionally, individuals seeking information about specific U.S. cities can benefit from the experiences and recommendations shared by Afghan expatriates living in the United States.
I would like to be resettled in a particular city or state. What should I do?
SIV recipients overseas who express their intention to participate in the Resettlement and Placement (R&P) Program have options to influence their placement in the United States. Resettlement agencies consider various factors such as the cost of living, housing availability, employment opportunities, and the presence of robust resettlement services when selecting a location for individuals and families. These agencies possess valuable expertise and resources to ensure a successful transition to life in the United States.
Alternatively, applicants may designate a resettlement preference for specific cities or states where they have family or friends residing, known as a "U.S. tie." However, it's essential to consider factors like housing availability and cost of living when choosing these locations. While applicants can express preferences, placement near designated individuals is not always feasible.
To indicate a preference for resettlement locations, applicants can provide relevant information on the DS-0234 SIV Biodata Form under the "U.S. Ties" section. This includes the full name, address, telephone number, and email address of the individual(s) the applicant wishes to be resettled near, along with their relationship to the applicant.
How can I apply for a Social Security card?
To apply for a Social Security card in the United States, follow these steps:
- After arriving in the USA, you'll need to visit the nearest Social Security Administration (SSA) office to apply for your Social Security card. You can find your nearest office using the SSA's office locator tool available on their website.
- If you arrived in the USA with an IOM (International Organization for Migration) flight, the refugee agency assisting you should be able to provide guidance and assistance in registering for your social security card. They can help streamline the application process and ensure that all necessary steps are completed correctly.
- When visiting the SSA office, make sure to bring all required documents with you. Typically, you'll need to provide proof of identity, such as your passport or birth certificate, and proof of immigration status, such as your visa.
- At the SSA office, you'll need to complete the application for a social security card. The staff will guide you through the process and may conduct an interview to verify your information.
- Once your application is processed and approved, you will receive your social security card by mail at the address you provided. It's essential to ensure that the address you provide is accurate to avoid any delays in receiving your card.
Ask for help from "Beporsed"
For those Afghans seeking specific information, "Beporsed" is here to help. You can reach our information center through WhatsApp (+93729807235), Facebook Messenger, or our website's Messenger to ask our online information desk officer for assistance.
For more information
For more information on immigration, resettlement, education and scholarship programs, and other opportunities available to Afghans worldwide, as well as details on the humanitarian services provided by international organizations in Afghanistan and procedures for obtaining civil documents from governmental institutions, please visit Beporsed's website and social media pages.
✓ Beporsed website (www.beporsed.org)