This is a guide on USRAP-related cases such as Priority-One (P-1) and Priority-Two (P-2) cases, which is developed in Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) format. In this guide, we address common queries and concerns about USRAP-related cases, 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. USRAP stands for the United States Refugee Admissions Program. It is a program administered by the U.S. Department of State in collaboration with other federal agencies, designed to provide resettlement opportunities for refugees fleeing persecution or violence in their home countries. USRAP prioritizes the resettlement of vulnerable populations, including individuals facing religious, political, or ethnic persecution, as well as those at risk due to their association with the United States or its missions abroad. In addition to traditional refugee cases, USRAP also reviews Priority-One (P-1) and Priority-Two (P-2) cases.
Join us as we navigate the essential questions surrounding the USRAP-related cases, empowering individuals with knowledge and support on their journey to resettlement.
What is USRAP, and which cases are referred to USRAP?
USRAP stands for the United States Refugee Admissions Program. It is a program administered by the U.S. Department of State in collaboration with other federal agencies, designed to provide resettlement opportunities for refugees fleeing persecution or violence in their home countries. USRAP prioritizes the resettlement of vulnerable populations, including individuals facing religious, political, or ethnic persecution, as well as those at risk due to their association with the United States or its missions abroad.
Cases referred to USRAP include individuals identified as refugees by the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) or other designated refugee referral agencies. Refugees undergo a rigorous screening and vetting process, including background checks, security screenings, and interviews with U.S. immigration officials, to determine their eligibility for resettlement in the United States.
In addition to traditional refugee cases, USRAP also reviews Priority-1 (P-1), Priority-2 (P-2), and Priority-3 (P-3) cases. P-1 cases involve individuals referred by UNHCR based on urgent humanitarian needs or compelling circumstances. P-2 cases are for specific groups identified by the U.S. government for resettlement, often based on nationality or affiliation with U.S. interests. P-3 cases are for family reunification purposes, allowing certain relatives of refugees already in the United States to be considered for resettlement.
Who is eligible for P-1 referrals?
Individuals eligible for Priority One (P-1) referrals include Afghan nationals known to U.S. government officials through channels other than employment on or for a U.S. government-funded project. These individuals must have imminent and compelling protection concerns and do not qualify for an SIV or a P-2 referral based on their past employment status.
P-1 referrals are typically made by organizations or officials who have direct knowledge of the individual's circumstances and protection needs. Unlike P-2 referrals, which are based on past employment, P-1 cases are trusted because they are referred directly by officials and organizations, reducing the likelihood of fraud.
It's important for organizations and officials to carefully assess the eligibility criteria before making P-1 referrals. The referral process for P-1 cases involves providing detailed information about the individual's situation, including their protection concerns and reasons for seeking resettlement in the United States.
By referring eligible individuals for P-1 status, organizations and officials can help facilitate the resettlement process for those facing imminent and compelling protection concerns.
Who is eligible for P-2 referrals?
Individuals eligible for Priority Two (P-2) referrals encompass a diverse range of individuals who have worked in various capacities to support U.S. government efforts or projects in Afghanistan. These include:
- Individuals who do not meet the minimum time-in-service requirements for a Special Immigrant Visa (SIV), but who have worked as employees of contractors, locally-employed staff, interpreters/translators for the U.S. Government, United States Forces Afghanistan (USFOR-A), International Security Assistance Force (ISAF), or Resolute Support.
- Afghans who have worked for a U.S. government-funded program or project in Afghanistan supported through a U.S. government grant or cooperative agreement.
- Afghans who are or were employed in Afghanistan by a U.S.-based media organization or non-governmental organization.
- Afghan nationals who have worked for U.S.-based media organizations under stringer, freelance, and comparable arrangements.
P-2 referrals are made by organizations or officials who have direct knowledge of the individual's employment history and qualifications. These referrals are trusted because they are made directly by officials and organizations, reducing the risk of fraudulent claims.
The P-2 referral process involves providing detailed information about the individual's employment history, including their role, responsibilities, and contributions to U.S. government efforts or projects in Afghanistan.
What is Priority Three (P-3) status?
Priority Three (P-3) is also known as 'family reunification' status, is a designation given to certain family members of individuals already admitted to the United States as refugees or asylees. This designation is specifically granted to spouses, unmarried children under the age of 21, or parents of individuals who have been granted refugee or asylum status in the United States. P3 status allows eligible family members to reunite with their loved ones who have already been resettled in the United States.
The application process for P3 status must be completed outside the country of origin, and eligible individuals must meet specific criteria to qualify for this designation. Once granted P3 status, family members may be eligible to apply for resettlement in the United States through the refugee or asylum program.
It's important to note that P3 status is distinct from P-3 referrals, which refer to pre-trial diversion programs for individuals charged with non-violent crimes. P-3 referrals aim to provide alternative resolutions to traditional criminal justice proceedings, focusing on rehabilitation and diversion from incarceration through treatment, counseling, and education programs.
Who can submit referrals for P-1 and P-2 programs?
Referrals for Priority 1 (P-1) and Priority 2 (P-2) programs must be submitted by specific individuals or entities designated by the U.S. government. Here's a breakdown of who can submit referrals and some important considerations:
- P-1 Referrals: Only current U.S. government federal employees with Senior Executive Service (SES) or Senior Foreign Service (SFS) approval are authorized to submit P-1 referrals. It's crucial to note that there is typically only one designated person within the Department of Defense responsible for submitting P-1 referrals.
- P-2 Referrals: P-2 referrals can be submitted by current U.S. government federal employees, as well as the most senior person at a U.S.-based media organization or non-governmental organization (NGO).
If individuals do not fall into any of these categories, their referral is not valid, and they may not receive a response. However, if they have recommended someone for referral to a U.S. government agency or a U.S.-based NGO/media organization, they should follow up with that entity to ensure the referral is submitted correctly.
What are some general comments on the P-1/P-2 referral process?"
The P-1/P-2 referral process involves several important considerations and procedures. Here are some general comments to help individuals better understand the process:
- While the "P" in P-1/P-2 stands for Priority, it's essential to note that P-1 is not inherently a higher priority or faster than P-2. Both categories serve as points of access to the U.S. Refugee Admissions Program (USRAP) once individuals are able to depart Afghanistan.
- P-1/P-2 referrals should not be confused with visa applications. Instead, they serve as initial steps for individuals to access USRAP upon leaving Afghanistan.
- USRAP provides basic information on P-1/P-2/P-3 categories. Additionally, there are comprehensive documents available detailing who can submit referrals, how to submit them, and what happens afterward.
- Generally, there is no direct means for individuals to contact the USRAP or CARE to inquire about the status of a referral. Most inquiries and follow-ups are handled by designated personnel or entities involved in the referral process.
- Once an Afghan is referred under P-1/P-2, they receive an Afghan Referral Record (ARR) number, then travel to a third country where processing can commence, and are assigned to a Resettlement Support Center (RSC). Subsequent communication regarding the case will occur exclusively between the Afghan and the RSC.
- Referrers should refrain from directly sharing ARR numbers with referred Afghans. After traveling to a third country, they should wait for the referred individual to receive a referral acceptance email from RSC or USRAP.
Why are P-1, P-2, and P-3 case holders relocating sooner than SIV applicants?
The relocation of P-1, P-2, and P-3 case holders recently occurred more quickly than that of SIV applicants due to several factors. P1-1 and P-2 applicants are often introduced through their affiliated offices, which provide valuable support and oversight throughout the immigration process. In P-1 and P-2, case cases typically involve individuals associated with organizations or media projects, where documentation and verification processes are more streamlined. Additionally, in P-3 case holders are relocating because of the family reunification prioritization.
Based on our understanding, while SIV cases are prioritized, they may experience delays in processing, partly because of the prevalence of fraudulent documents within the SIV program. SIV cases have faced challenges stemming from fraudulent activities, including the submission of fake documents and questionable endorsements from some supervisors and employers. This has necessitated more thorough scrutiny and investigation of SIV applications to ensure their validity, then a lengthy administrative process and availability of budget and relevant visa.
Despite efforts to expedite the relocation of both SIV, P-1, P-2, and P-3 case holders, there is pressure from the State Department to prioritize Afghan SIV applicants due to the United States' commitment to its Afghan allies.
How much time does a US Refugee Admissions Program (USRAP) case typically take?
The processing time for USRAP cases is a crucial aspect to consider, and it's essential to manage expectations accordingly. In general, the USRAP processing timeline is lengthy, often requiring a minimum of 12-18 months under optimal conditions. But it can take many years in real. It's vital for individuals involved in the process, including those working with P-1/P-2 referrals, to understand and prepare for the extended duration involved.
Applicants and stakeholders should be aware that USRAP processing involves multiple stages and extensive vetting procedures, contributing to the extended timeline.
It's important to communicate openly and honestly about the realities of the USRAP process with Afghan individuals and families seeking resettlement. Transparency regarding the potential duration of the process allows them to make informed decisions regarding their future plans.
Which family members are eligible for P-1 and P-2 cases?
For P-1 and P-2 cases, certain family members of eligible individuals may be considered for inclusion in the resettlement process. Here's a breakdown of eligible family members for each category:
- P-1 Category: Eligible family members for P-1 cases include the spouse and unmarried children under the age of 21. This category typically applies to individuals with imminent and compelling protection concerns who do not qualify for other referral categories based on their past employment status.
- P-2 Category: In P-2 cases, a broader range of family members can be considered for inclusion. Eligible family members for P-2 cases include the spouse and both married and unmarried children, regardless of their age.
It's important for individuals referring others under the P-1 and P-2 categories to ensure that all eligible family members are identified and included in the referral process.
What should organizations do if they made referrals for P1/2 but never heard anything back?
If organizations have made referrals for P1/2 but have not received any response, there are several steps they can take to address the issue.
First, it's essential to verify eligibility for the P1/P2 visa program. In many cases, lack of response may be due to ineligibility to submit a referral. For P2 referrals, companies must ensure that the US Government agency overseeing the contract submits the referral, as companies cannot do so directly.
US government employees who have submitted P1 or P2 referrals should reach out to their designated USRAP agency/department contact for follow-up. Similarly, U.S.-based media/NGO organizations that have submitted P2 referrals should contact their direct PRM/USRAP contact for assistance.
If organizations have confirmed their eligibility and are unable to reach their designated contacts, they can submit an inquiry to USRAP for further assistance.
Does the U.S. government provide support to P-1/P-2 applicants while they wait for a decision on their refugee case?
No, the U.S. government does not typically provide protection or financial support to individuals referred under the P-1/P-2 categories while they await a decision on their refugee case. However, if P-1/P-2 applicants are relocated by organizations such as CARE or IOM, the U.S. government may offer financial support to cover accommodations, food, and other necessities during their relocation process.
It's essential for P-1/P-2 applicants and their referring organizations to understand that they may need to support themselves financially during the waiting period for their refugee case. This waiting period can vary in duration and may last several months or even longer, depending on various factors such as case processing times and availability of resettlement slots.
Applicants and referring organizations should plan accordingly and ensure that they have the necessary resources to sustain themselves during this period of uncertainty. Additionally, applicants should explore alternative options for support, such as assistance from local humanitarian organizations or community resources, to help meet their basic needs while awaiting a decision on their refugee case.
Where can an individual begin processing their P-1/P-2 refugee case once outside of Afghanistan?
Once outside of Afghanistan and in a country where USRAP (U.S. Refugee Admissions Program) processing is possible, individuals can initiate the processing of their P-1/P-2 refugee case. It's important to note that USRAP processing is not feasible in certain countries, including Iran, Afghanistan, Yemen, Syria, Somalia, and North Korea.
To be eligible for refugee status under the P-1/P-2 categories, individuals must demonstrate that they were persecuted or have a well-founded fear of persecution due to factors such as their race, religion, nationality, political opinion, or membership in a particular social group. Additionally, they must meet other eligibility criteria, including security vetting and medical clearances.
Once in a country where USRAP processing is possible, individuals can engage with resettlement agencies or organizations that facilitate refugee processing to initiate their cases. This typically involves submitting documentation, undergoing interviews and security screenings, and providing evidence to support their refugee claim.
What does it mean if I receive a notice stating that processing on my USRAP case has been 'deferred'?
Receiving a notice of deferral in the U.S. Refugee Admissions Program (USRAP) is a normal practice and does not indicate a rejection of the application. Instead, it signifies that additional research or investigation is being conducted on the case before a final decision is made.
A deferral notice typically indicates that the reviewing authorities require more time to gather information, verify details, or address specific concerns related to the application. This could involve conducting further background checks, corroborating documentation, or seeking additional clarification from the applicant or other relevant parties.
Applicants should understand that a deferral notice does not necessarily imply a negative outcome for their case. While it may prolong the processing timeline, it allows for a thorough and comprehensive review to ensure the integrity and accuracy of the decision-making process.
Applicants should remain patient and vigilant during the deferral period, as updates or requests for additional information may follow.
Why does the Office of the Secretary of Defense (OSD) not accept recommendations from contractors for the Department of Defense (DoD) during their time in Afghanistan for P1 referrals, but require that they were DoD civilians or in uniform?
The policy of not accepting recommendations from contractors for P1 referrals by the Office of the Secretary of Defense (OSD) has been longstanding and remains unchanged. This policy dictates that individuals who were contractors for the Department of Defense during their time in Afghanistan cannot directly submit P1 referrals to OSD. Instead, the recommendation must come from a DoD civilian employee or someone in uniform.
The rationale behind this policy is rooted in the distinction between contractors and direct DoD personnel. While former contractors can still bring attention to a particular Afghan individual, they must have a direct hire within DoD willing to endorse and recommend them for a P1 referral. This ensures that the referral process maintains a level of oversight and accountability within the DoD's own channels.
It's important to note that while contractors may not be eligible to submit P1 referrals directly to OSD, DoD has the capability to verify an individual's employment with a contractor. In such cases, the individual may still be considered for a P2 referral based on DoD's verification of their employment.
What recourse does someone have if a referrer for P1/P2 passes away prior to receipt of an ARR number?
If a referrer for P1/P2 passes away before the referral process is completed, the options available depend on the stage of the process at the time of their passing.
If the referral has already been initiated and is in progress, the evaluation process will typically continue despite the referrer's passing. However, if the referrer had not yet made the referral, the Afghan individual seeking referral assistance will need to identify and enlist another individual to serve as the referrer.
In cases where the principal applicant (PA) has already passed away after the referral has been submitted and family members were included in the referral, the process generally continues for the family members. Their eligibility and participation in the program are typically unaffected by the PA's passing, and they can proceed with the case as planned.
It's recommended for individuals involved in the referral process to ensure that there are contingency plans in place, especially regarding the identification of potential referrers.
Does the title of 'intern' affect someone's eligibility for USRAP (P1/P2 referral) if they otherwise meet the criteria?
Yes, the title of "intern" can impact eligibility for USRAP referrals, particularly regarding P2 referrals. Interns are typically not eligible for P2 referrals due to the nature of their employment relationship. However, eligibility for P1 referrals may still be possible if certain criteria are met.
For P1 eligibility, individuals must be considered part of the organizational staff, receive benefits, and be subject to the same rules as other employees. If an intern meets these criteria and can demonstrate their integral role within the organization, they may still qualify for a P1 referral despite their title.
It's important for individuals in intern positions who believe they meet the criteria for USRAP referrals to thoroughly review the eligibility requirements and consult with relevant authorities or organizations handling the referral process.
If a person who received an ARR number and Google Form from USRAP indicated they are in one country and then they relocate, can they update their location, and if so, how?
Yes, individuals who have received an ARR number and Google Form from USRAP but have relocated to a different country can update their location. If they have moved within the same region covered by the Resettlement Support Centers (RSC), they should inform the RSC in their current region about their new location. However, if they have moved to a country in a different region, they should contact the RSC in their new location to update their location information.
If the individual is not already in contact with the RSC, they can submit a new response to the initial Google Form they received, indicating their new location. This ensures that their updated location information is captured and communicated to the appropriate RSC for further processing of their case.
Which Resettlement Support Centers (RSCs) process the P-2 cases?
Overseas Resettlement Support Centers (RSCs) play a crucial role in processing P-2 cases for individuals seeking resettlement in the United States. Here are the RSCs responsible for handling P-2 cases in different regions, in case you travel without CARE and IOM:
- RSC Africa: Managed by Church World Service (CWS) in Nairobi, Kenya. Website: www.churchworldservice.org/site/PageServer
- RSC Austria: Operated by HIAS in Vienna, Austria. Website: global.hias.org/en/pages/vienn
- RSC East Asia: Overseen by the International Rescue Committee (IRC) in Thailand. Website: www.rescue.org/irc-thailand
- RSC Eurasia: Handled by the International Organization for Migration (IOM) in Moscow, Russia. Website: moscow.iom.int
- RSC Middle East and North Africa: Managed by the International Organization for Migration (IOM) in Jordan. Website: www.iom.int/jahia/Jahia/jordan
These RSCs provide assistance and support to individuals throughout the resettlement process, including conducting interviews, processing paperwork, and coordinating travel arrangements. Applicants can reach out to the respective RSC in their region for guidance and information regarding their P-2 case.
How do I add my newborn baby to my P-2 case?
After your case is assigned to a resettlement support center and you are assigned a caseworker, you can discuss adding your newborn baby to your case with your caseworker. They will guide you through the process and inform you of any documentation or information needed to update your case with the new addition.
Typically, you will need to provide documentation proving the relationship between you and your baby, such as a birth certificate or hospital record. Your caseworker will inform you of the specific requirements and assist you in submitting the necessary paperwork.
It's essential to inform your caseworker about the new addition to ensure that your baby is included in your resettlement process and receives the necessary support and services.
What happens if I list two wives on my P-2 referral form?
If you listed two wives on your P-2 referral form, you will need to provide evidence of marriage for each spouse as your case progresses. Typically, this involves submitting marriage certificates or other official documents confirming your marital status with each spouse.
However, in cases where you are legally married to one spouse but not the other, only the spouse with whom you have a valid and recognized marriage will be included in your P-2 case. The other spouse will not be retained on the case.
It's recommended to ensure that the information provided on your referral form is accurate and reflects your legal marital status to avoid any complications during the processing of your P-2 case. If you have any questions or concerns about your marital status or the inclusion of spouses in your case, you should discuss them with your caseworker or the appropriate authorities handling your resettlement process.
What things do I need to take with me to the RCS interview session for the initial review?
When attending the interview session at the Resettlement Support Center (RSC) for the initial review, it's crucial to bring all necessary identification documents and any family members mentioned in your file. While the RSC understands the challenges refugees may face in obtaining and maintaining personal documents, taking relevant paperwork will aid in the process. Here's a comprehensive list of documents to bring considering your situation:
- UNHCR refugee certificate or identification card
- Passport or travel documents
- Tazkera and birth certificate as National identification cards
- Citizenship certificates
- Marriage and divorce certificates
- Custody, adoption, and death certificates
- Employment and educational certificates or diplomas
- Medical records and prescriptions
- Threatening letters, police letters, court documents, and publications related to the case
- Military documents such as booklets, ID cards, and certificates
- Red Cross certificate (if applicable)
- Letters of recommendation
Additionally, provide the names, addresses, and telephone numbers of U.S. Ties in the United States. Note that the above documents are different, considering each applicant's situation.
Can I process my SIV and P-2 cases simultaneously?
No, it is not possible to have both SIV (Special Immigrant Visa) and P-2 cases simultaneously. The reason is that if you are not eligible for the SIV, you would inherently qualify for the P-2 visa. The P-2 program is specifically designed for individuals who do not meet the qualifications for the SIV.
In situations where an individual has both SIV and P-2 cases in an advanced stage, such as having received COM (Chief of Mission) Approval for the SIV and having their P-2 case actively under review by the USRAP (United States Refugee Admissions Program), the U.S. State Department may intervene. They may contact the applicant to inform them of the dual cases and request that one case be withdrawn, either the SIV or the P-2.
While some applicants may initially pursue both cases concurrently, it's essential to understand that eventually, a decision will need to be made to withdraw one of the cases. This decision often arises when both cases reach an advanced stage, and proceeding with both simultaneously becomes impractical.
It's important for applicants to stay informed about the status of their cases and be prepared to make decisions as necessary to ensure the efficient processing of their immigration applications.
My SIV case is denied, so can I apply for P-2?
Yes, if your Special Immigrant Visa (SIV) application is denied, you may be eligible to apply for a Priority 2 (P-2) case. However, it's crucial to note that eligibility for P-2 resettlement typically requires a referral from your employer, company, or office to the United States Refugee Admissions Program (USRAP). This referral is necessary to initiate the P-2 application process.
It's essential to consider the circumstances surrounding the denial of your SIV case. If the denial was due to genuine reasons unrelated to fraudulent documents or misrepresentation, your chances of successfully resettling under the P-2 category may be higher. However, if your SIV case was denied due to the submission of fake or fraudulent documents, the situation becomes more complicated. In such cases, your eligibility for P-2 resettlement may be significantly affected, and the likelihood of being approved for resettlement in the US could be lower.
Before pursuing a P-2 application, it's advisable to thoroughly review the reasons for the denial of your SIV case and seek guidance from legal experts or immigration professionals. Understanding the implications of your denial and the requirements for P-2 resettlement can help you make informed decisions regarding your future immigration options.
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