What you need to know about Trump's US refugee application

Interested? What you need to know about Trump’s US refugee application

‘Thousands’ of South Africans have sought advice on Donald Trump’s refugee status offer to Afrikaners. Here is more information…

Here's what you need to know about Donald Trump's refugee status offer to South Africans. Image by tammon from Pixabay

The South African Chamber of Commerce in the USA (SACCUSA) is calling on interested individuals from the Afrikaner community to register for information updates regarding Donald Trump’s offer of refugee status in America.

The US president has issued an executive order that white South Africans may apply for asylum abroad.

What does this entail?

TRUMP’S REFUGEE STATUS OFFER: KEEP UP TO DATE

According to SACCUSA, “thousands of South Africans” have reached out to them over the weekend for information regarding the process and implications of Donald Trump’s executive order.

The organisation has invited interested individuals to register in their database to stay informed on the latest developments.

SACCUSA has emphasized that it does not process, approve, or facilitate refugee applications but simply provides updates and information.

Click here to access their site.

WHAT IS A REFUGEE?

According to the US Citizen and Immigration Services (USCIS), a refugee is defined as someone who:

Lives outside of the US
Is of special humanitarian concern to the US.
Demonstrates that they were persecuted or fear persecution due to race, religion, nationality, political opinion, or membership in a particular social group
Is not firmly resettled in another country
Is admissible to the US

donald trump, afrikaner asylum — Many South Africans from the Afrikaner community, are keen to take up Donald Trump’s asylum offer.
Image via Canva

APPLICATION PROCESS: WHAT CAN YOU EXPECT?

According to Versfeld Immigration Attorneys, South Africans interested in applying for Donald Trump’s refugee status offer must take note of the following protocol.

Applicants must receive a referral to the US Refugee Admissions Program (USRAP) for consideration as a refugee.
Applicants will required to complete official documents and undergo an interview with a USCIS officer abroad who will determine eligibility.
Family members of refugees – like spouses and children under 21 – may be included in the application.
Approved refugees will receive a medical exam, cultural orientation, assistance with travel, and a travel loan to relocate to the US.
Refugees may legally work in the US immediately upon arrival.
Refugees can apply for a Green Card one year after entering the US.