Last checked: 24 October 2026

South African refugees coming to the USA: where are you in the journey?

A plain-language, factual guide for South Africans being processed through, or recently resettled by, the U.S. Refugee Admissions Program (USRAP). Pick your stage below. Words such as USRAP are explained in the glossary.

The FY2026 refugee ceiling was raised from 7,500 to 17,500 by Presidential Determination 2026-14 [source].
The FY2027 ceiling is up to 17,500 under Presidential Determination 2026-24 [source].
Since 1 January 2026 the Office of Refugee Resettlement (ORR) runs initial resettlement [source].

This is general information, not legal advice. Refugee status questions can affect your status: confirm with your resettlement agency, an accredited representative or an immigration attorney.

1. Applying

Eligibility and referral
Who the Embassy says can be considered for referral.Online intake questionnaire
The official USRAP Intake Questionnaire: who should submit it, and what happens next.Programme status and caps
FY2026 and FY2027 refugee ceilings.Avoiding scams
The programme is free. Spot fake helpers and pet-travel scams.

2. Arriving

Bringing your pets
CDC and USDA rules, how long a dog takes, and what the Embassy says about pets.First 90 days
What your local resettlement provider arranges.Social Security card
How refugees get an SSN and card.

3. First 90 days

Benefits checklist
Cash, medical, food and services to sign up for.Health cover (RMA and Medicaid)
Refugee Medical Assistance now lasts up to 12 months.Jobs and employment services
Work rights from day one, the EAD and Form I-9.When your agency is not helping
Contact your State Refugee Coordinator.

4. First year

Can I leave the USA?
Whether you can leave the USA, and how the refugee travel document works.SA passport and citizenship risks
Why a South African passport can put refugee status at risk.

5. Green card and beyond

Green card after 1 year (I-485)
You must apply after 1 year of physical presence. Travel can pause that clock.

About

About this site
Independent site, sources and method.Words and abbreviations explained
Plain-English meanings for the abbreviations on this site.Disclaimer
General information only. Not legal advice and not a government site.