Refugee Resettlement Changes and Challenges

In January 2025, President Trump signed an executive order suspending the U.S. Refugee Assistance Program (USRAP) indefinitely. The major policy shift in the U.S. refugee admissions program has introduced many challenges and uncertainty for those seeking safety in the United States.

Understanding the evolving policies is crucial for refugees and their advocates. Scott D. Pollock & Associates, P.C. is committed to guiding and supporting those affected by changes to USRAP. We are staying current with developments regarding the USRAP program to empower our clients with the knowledge they need to navigate these changes.

Understanding the 2025 USRAP Suspension

The USRAP suspension has halted all decisions on USRAP applications. The government has implemented the halt due to its stance that the influx of refugees:

• Compromises the availability of resources for U.S. citizens
• Threatens national security
• Prevents appropriate assimilation

Refugee Resettlement Challenges

The USRAP suspension means that the U.S. is not allowing refugees into the country through the program until further notice. The suspension has several important implications for those seeking refuge.

• Halt on refugee travel. Refugees already approved for resettlement and whose travel is scheduled will have their travel indefinitely delayed.
• Suspension of case processing. Refugee case processing, new case creation, appointment scheduling, and application reviews are all paused.
• Uncertainty about the future. The suspension is in place unless the government lifts it. Thus far, it is unclear when and in what form the USRAP program will be reinstated—or if it will be reinstated at all.
• Role of state and local jurisdictions. To the extent permitted by law, state and local governments will be granted a role in determining the placement or settlement of refugees in their jurisdictions.
• Refugees already in the U.S. The suspension does not affect refugees already in the U.S. under USRAP.

The Termination of the Welcome Corps Program

Welcome Corps, a program within USRAP, has been terminated. Welcome Corp allowed Americans and permanent residents to sponsor refugees.

Sponsors assisted refugees with housing, transportation, education, and employment during their initial months in the U.S. The termination of this program has significantly affected the resettlement process for many refugees.

The sponsorship approach to refugee resettlement by Welcome Corp played a vital role in supporting refugees as they integrated into American society. So far, it is unknown whether this program will return.

Case-by-Case Refugee Admissions

The executive order does allow for case-by-case admissions, which means there is still a potential pathway for entry into the country. This process involves a thorough review of each refugee’s circumstances to determine their eligibility for admission. However, the criteria and lack of clear guidelines for exceptions remain ambiguous and challenging to navigate.

The order states that the Secretary of State and the Secretary of Homeland Security can jointly determine whether or not to allow refugees into the U.S. They may only do so if it is in the national interest and does not pose a threat to the security or welfare of U.S. citizens.

Refugees and their advocates are encouraged to consult one of our knowledgeable attorneys who can assess whether your circumstances qualify for review under this allowance. Our responsibility is to keep you informed and use any available options to help you settle safely in the U.S.

Navigating the USRAP Suspension Landscape

The suspension of USRAP in 2025 presents significant obstacles for refugees seeking safety and security in the U.S. Legal efforts are underway to challenge the executive order, but the path forward remains uncertain.

Staying informed and working with an experienced immigration lawyer is essential for navigating the complexities of the USRAP suspension. Scott D. Pollock & Associates, P.C. is here to help you or your loved one who has been affected by the suspension of USRAP.