US President Trump surprised the world with an offer of refugee status for certain South Africans on 7 Feb 2025.

He gave various reasons for this, notably:

1) SA expropriation of land and other racially based legislation
2) SA undermining US national interests
3) SA persisting with the ICJ case against Israel.

REFER TO THE FEB 7 EXECUTIVE ORDER BY PRESIDENT DONALD TRUMP ON THIS SITE TO READ THE FULL ORDER.

The original EXECUTIVE ORDER on 7 Feb 2025 refers only to "Afrikaners", citing the seizure of agricultural property and actions fueling disproportionate violence against racially disfavored landowners.

On Feb 8, Tammy Bruce, spokeswoman for the State Dept, referred to refugees as follows in a tweet: "descendants of settlers being abused by the SA Gov" and "victims being targeted solely based on their race who choose to resettle in America will be welcome."

Pursuant to the above, the US State Dept. published a FACT SHEET on 10 Feb 25 referring only to "disfavored minorities" that broadens the definition to include all white South Africans and certain other groups.

Then, a further UPDATE by the US Embassy in SA was issued on 13 Feb 2025, again referring to only to "Afrikaners."

In Trump's Truth Social post on March 7, he directed a special program for commercial farmers, offering a fast track to citizenship.

This in no way replaces or affects the original Refugee Program. The program was confirmed to be on track by the US Embassy again on March 11.

What will happen next is that the US State Dept. and US Embassy in SA will issue a policy document addressing factors such as eligibility, application process, limitations and time lines.

As at today, there is no such information available and South Africans must simply wait until the information is made public.

Watch this site for breaking news and DO NOT FALL FOR SCAMS by people offering you services on this.

When the guidelines are issued, you will be able to apply your own, with no paid for assistance.

The US State Department and US Embassy in SA will clarify exactly how first contact for the U.S. Refugee Admissions Program (USRAP) can be made.

After that, the USRAP will involve a multi-step process for eligible refugees seeking resettlement in the United States.

Here's an overview of the typical procedure:

Referral Process:

Individuals must first obtain a referral to be considered for the USRAP. Referrals will likely be administered by the U.S. Embassy in South Africa and/or the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) and/or nominated non-governmental organizations (NGOs). This will be clarified by the US guidelines.

Application Submission:

Once you have succeeded in being referred for consideration, applicants receive assistance in completing their full refugee application. This process is typically facilitated by a Resettlement Support Center (RSC), which helps gather necessary documentation and prepare the case for further consideration by USCIS.

USCIS Interview:

Applicants undergo an in-person interview conducted by a U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) officer. During this interview, the officer will assess the applicant's eligibility for refugee status and ask other questions relating to the refugee and/or family to best address their needs.

Security Screening and Medical Examination:

Applicants must pass extensive security screenings, which include background checks conducted by various U.S. agencies. Additionally, a medical screening is required to identify any major health concerns that need to be addressed before resettlement.

Approval and Resettlement:

Once approved, applicants receive cultural orientation and assistance with travel arrangements to the United States. Upon arrival, they are eligible for certain benefits and services to aid their integration.

This can be anything from a couple of weeks to a year due to the complexity of the international process. Naturally it also depends on the number of applicants to process and the degree of risk they face. If, for example, there was a kinetic genocide, the process could be very quick, but this is not an immediate problem in South Africa.

Yes and No.

If you need any support for housing, cash and hands-on services from the US Government, they will send you to various places where they have the infrastructure to provide support. You can ask to be sent to a specific place in your interview with USCIS, but you will not be guaranteed success with that.

If, however, you are financially independent, you can go anywhere in the country you want, from the moment you land.

No, not at all. You will be wasting your time and theirs.

The first process will be announced, and it is likely to be done online, for security and practical reasons.

No, you don't.

This requirement only occurs when an individual/group initiates the refugee status request where the circumstances in the problem country are unknown.

In the South Africa case, the US is not only aware of the racial prejudice towards minorities, but President Trump himself has laid out the case to that effect.

No, you don't need to get one.

As part of the assessment, USCIS will do a full security check on all refugees, which will include their clearance of your criminal profile.

Immigrant:
Someone who voluntarily moves to the US for work, family, or better opportunities, usually through a visa or residency process. The admission criteria are extremely strict and mostly exclusive to the highly educated, wealthy and/or international business class of citizen.

Asylum Seeker:
This is a person who applies for protection after arriving and from inside the U.S. who is desperate not to return home.

Refugee (2025 SOUTH AFRICANS):
A person who applies from outside the U.S. for protection due to persecution (e.g., racial, political, or religious threats) and is resettled through the U.S. Refugee Admissions Program (USRAP).

There's a popup on this site where you can subscribe free to request an email with a simple checklist. It lists documentation you need for the application and paperwork you should begin to set aside for your arrival in the US.

If the popup does not work for some reason, just email me at info@amerikaners.com and mention "Checklist."

We don't know yet.

Usually, the U.S. has a cap or limit on the number of refugees it accepts each year.

This cap is determined by the President, in consultation with Congress, and is outlined in a Presidential Determination (PD).

For example, the 2022 Refugee Admissions Ceiling was set at 125,000, but this could vary annually.

No. Visas are only necessary for normal immigration, temporary work excursions and holidaymakers.

No, not at all.

Immigration attorneys usually assist families with emigration/immigration on a case-by-case basis, where there are strict criteria for admission.

In this case, as a refugee, the engagement is strictly between the US and your family, so a lawyer cannot assist you.

However, should you need to wind up complex affairs in South Africa, i.e. sale of businesses, transfer of large financial assets or multiple properties to divest of it would behoove you to consult with an attorney.

For the first year, you will be legally classified as a Refugee, with all of the important rights, protections and responsibilities of a US Citizen.

At the end of the first year, you will apply for Permanent Residence. It is vital that you have conducted yourself as an upstanding citizen for this application.

Once Permanent Residence is granted, it will take a further +-5 years for the naturalization process which will result in full US Citizenship.

Up to age 21 you can add them to the family. If an older child is dependent on you (disabled etc.) this age limit can be extended.

Otherwise, your children over 21 will simply make individual applications.

Furthermore, if an adult over 18 years old WANTS to apply independently, they may do so.

There is no age, status, educational or other limits/requirements on refugees. Even the elderly, sick and infirm will be welcomed because a refugee program is quintessentially a humanitarian gesture to preserve the life and liberty of one's fellow man.

As to the application, if your parents are DEPENDENT on you, you can add them to your family application.

If they are not living with you, they will simply apply as individuals.

If a South African refugee in their late 60s+ arrives in the U.S. without a pension or savings, they may qualify for several forms of support. Here’s a breakdown:

1. Refugee Assistance Programs

Refugee Cash Assistance (RCA): Provides temporary financial support (usually up to 12 months) for refugees who are not eligible for other welfare programs.

Refugee Medical Assistance (RMA): Covers medical expenses for up to 12 months if they do not qualify for Medicaid.

Resettlement Agency Support: The U.S. government funds resettlement agencies (like the IRC, USCCB, or HIAS) to provide initial housing, food, and job placement assistance.

2. Public Benefits (Once They Have a Green Card - likely after 1 year)

After one year, refugees can apply for a green card, which opens access to more long-term benefits:

Supplemental Security Income (SSI): Refugees over 65 with low income can apply for SSI, a small monthly cash benefit.

Medicaid: Provides free or low-cost healthcare.

Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP): Offers food assistance (commonly known as food stamps).

Low-Income Housing Assistance: They may qualify for subsidized housing (Section 8) in some states.

3. Social Security & Retirement Support

Since they haven’t worked in the U.S., they won’t qualify for Social Security benefits immediately. However, some states offer state-funded elderly assistance programs for those who don’t meet Social Security requirements.

4. Employment & Community Support

Some organizations help older refugees find part-time, light-duty jobs (if they are able to work).

Local charities and churches often assist elderly refugees with housing, food, and companionship.

While the transition may be challenging, U.S. refugee programs aim to provide a basic safety net. If they’re eligible, they should work with a resettlement agency to maximise support.

Yes, your nuclear family will be kept together, i.e. spouse and children under 21.

Other family members may be required to travel separately.

A problem arises with people who are not married, in that it is altogether probable you will be treated as individuals and will be assessed / travel separately.

Yes.

Once you arrive you are afforded a full two years to apply for your immediate and/or extended family members to come to the US.

However, if new Refugee applications are still open, they can just make application themselves and make note that they want their destination to be where you are situated.

No, the Covid vaccine requirement was lifted and proof of vaccination is not needed.

As to other vaccines, this information is on the CDC.gov website:

"US-bound refugees are not required to receive vaccinations before arrival in the United States."

They may be offered vaccines after arrival.

Yes, it is likely this will be allowed.

However, be prepared for it to be expensive and involve quarantine and/or kennels for some time.

Having debt in South Africa will not affect your eligibility for refugee status in the U.S.

The U.S. does not check financial records for refugees, so any debt will not affect your application.

The U.S. will focus only on whether you meet the legal definition of a refugee (facing persecution due to race, religion, nationality, political opinion, or membership in a particular social group).

However, there may be legal consequences for unpaid debt, such as asset seizures if you still own a house or other assets in the country at the time you leave, but this does not impact U.S. refugee processing.

A criminal record can impact a refugee's application, but it depends on the type of crime.

Here's how the U.S. evaluates it:

Crimes That Can Lead to Denial

Serious crimes (e.g., murder, terrorism, drug trafficking) usually result in automatic denial.
Crimes involving moral turpitude (fraud, theft, violent crimes) may also disqualify someone.
Human rights violations (war crimes, persecution of others) will result in denial.

Crimes That Might Be Overlooked

Minor offenses (like traffic violations or petty crimes) may not affect eligibility.
Political offenses (e.g., charges for opposing a corrupt government) may be reconsidered if they don’t involve violence.

Security & Background Checks

All refugees go through extensive security screening by U.S. agencies (FBI, DHS, etc.)
If a record exists, the case is reviewed individually to assess risks.

Waivers & Appeals

In some cases, waivers are available for minor crimes, especially if the refugee faces extreme danger. If denied, the refugee may appeal or seek asylum at some later date.

No. Absolutely not.

This is a refugee program, not emigration.

The key driver of success here is to validate your feeling of hopelessness in South Africa due to the fear of crime and discrimination we actually face.

You don't want the authorities to set your application aside and suggest you apply for immigration, which is the hard way to go to the US.

Yes, absolutely. You are encouraged to get to work as soon as possible once you've arrived.

Refugees landing in the US will receive an Employment Authorization Document (EAD), also known as a work permit (Form I-766), which allows them to work immediately upon arrival.

Key Points about the EAD:

Automatic Work Authorization
Refugees are legally allowed to work without needing a separate visa.
Issued by USCIS
The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) provides the EAD.
Validity
Typically valid for 2 years, renewable until you get a Green Card.
No Application Fee
Refugees do not have to pay for the first EAD.
Can Be Used for Jobs & ID
Employers accept it as proof of work eligibility.

Process to get an EAD:

1. The resettlement agency helps submit Form I-765 (Application for Employment Authorization) to USCIS.
2. The EAD card arrives within 1–3 months.
3. Until the EAD arrives, refugees can use their I-94 Arrival Document as temporary proof of work eligibility.

Tip: Once you receive an EAD, you should also apply for a Social Security Number (SSN), which is required for jobs and benefits.

Refugees arriving in the US receive initial resettlement assistance from government agencies and non-profit organizations.

Here's a breakdown of the support you can expect:

1. Financial Assistance

• One-time grant: $1,275 per person (through the Reception & Placement (R&P) Program).
• Cash assistance: Depending on eligibility, you may receive aid from programs like Refugee Cash Assistance (RCA) (for individuals) or Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) (for families with children).
• Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP): Food assistance (commonly known as food stamps).

2. Housing Assistance

• Initial housing: A resettlement agency will help secure a place to stay, but long-term rent is your responsibility.
• Basic furnishings & household items may be provided.
• Utilities & internet: Not typically covered, but some local programs offer limited support.

3. Medical Assistance

• Refugee Medical Assistance (RMA): Up to 12 months of health insurance if you don’t qualify for Medicaid.
• Free medical screenings upon arrival.
• Mental health support for trauma-related care.

4. Work & Employment Support

• Work Authorization: Refugees are eligible to work immediately upon arrival.
• Job placement assistance from resettlement agencies.
• Free English classes and career training.

5. Social Services & Integration Support

• Cultural orientation programs to help adjust to U.S. life.
• Help enrolling children in school.
• Legal assistance for applying for a Green Card (after 1 year) and citizenship (after 5 years).

6. Who Provides This Assistance?

• U.S. State Department & Office of Refugee Resettlement (ORR) (federal agencies).
• Voluntary Resettlement Agencies (VOLAGs): Such as the International Rescue Committee (IRC), Catholic Charities, HIAS, World Relief, and others.
• Local non-profits & community organizations (varies by state).
  

ESTIMATE OF FINANCIAL SUPPORT ON ARRIVAL

A $1,275 one-time grant is granted per person, but it is managed by the resettlement agency and not given directly. This will likely go towards immediate housing.

Housing Assistance

Refugees do not receive free or long-term subsidized housing, but they do get short-term support:

• Initial Housing Placement: A resettlement agency helps secure a rental (often an apartment).
• One-Time Rental Assistance: The Reception & Placement (R&P) grant ($1,275 per person) is used to cover rent and deposit for the first month or two.
• Help Finding Affordable Housing: Agencies assist in locating budget-friendly housing, but long-term rent is paid by the refugee.
• No utilities, internet, or furniture included, except in some local aid programs.

Medical Benefits

Refugees receive free or subsidized healthcare for up to 12 months:

• Refugee Medical Assistance (RMA) – If not eligible for Medicaid, RMA provides 12 months of health coverage.
• Medicaid Eligibility: Low-income refugees may qualify for Medicaid beyond 12 months.
• Initial Health Screenings: Free medical exams upon arrival, including vaccinations.
• Mental Health & Trauma Counseling: Support for PTSD, war trauma, and resettlement stress.

Additional Support

• Job Training & Placement: To help refugees become financially independent.
• English Language Classes: Free courses for better integration and job readiness.
• Child Enrollment in Public Schools: Free education for refugee children.

Rough Estimate of ongoing Cash Assistance

Single person: ~$500–$800/month (RCA + SNAP)
Couple (no kids): ~$1,000–$1,600/month (RCA + SNAP)
Family (2 adults, 2 kids): ~$1,200–$2,100/month (TANF + SNAP)

Important Notes:

• These are estimates and vary by state.
• Cash benefits scale down once employment is secured and stop after 12 months.
• Refugees must participate in job training to keep benefits.

The flight cost per person from JHB to New York is typically around R10 000. But, for outlying areas and for transfers in the US there will be an additional cost. It is advisable to have a minimum of R20 000 per person available.

There is no doubt that the US will offer a solution to those who have no means whatsoever to fund their own departure from South Africa. Some reports from past programs note that the US government may advance money for flights as a loan, to be repaid once you get settled in a new home and job.

No. You will need an International Driver's Permit (IDP) which can be obtained onlline or in person at an AA outlet in South Africa.

Documents they will need:

• Valid South African driving licence.
• ID document or valid passport.
• One (1) passport size photograph per International Driving Permit type.

It is also possible to obtain a license on arrival in the US.

Strictly speaking, none. Refugee programs are usually developed for people who flee and are forced to abandon their homes and assets with only the clothes on their back.

Therefore, the US is likely to make provision for those with absolutely no financial means.

However, if you are able to sell assets in South Africa before you leave this is advised, if only to buy your family's plane tickets.

Those with a cash nest egg will have many more options and enjoy far greater comfort for the first year.

The majority of programs are set for 1 to 3 years for enough money to live. But, historically, they are only needed for around 8 months.

As you start working, for every $10 you earn, the amount you are given as support reduces by $5, until there is no more.

You will need to have your qualifications assessed in the US for equivalency.

To get an equivalency check for your degrees, diplomas, or other qualifications in the U.S., you need to go through a credential evaluation service.

Here's how:

Choose an Agency:

The U.S. does not have a central government agency that evaluates foreign degrees. Instead, private agencies handle this.

Commonly used agencies include:

• World Education Services (WES) – www.wes.org
• Educational Credential Evaluators (ECE) – www.ece.org
• Josef Silny & Associates – www.jsilny.org

Process and Costs:

• Copies of your certificates, diplomas and degrees must be translated into English if needed.
• Make payment for the relevant evaluation fee.

Result:

• This report will compare your qualifications to U.S. degree equivalents.
• You can use it for job applications, university admissions, or professional licensing.

With a Provident Fund, you may withdraw the cash at any time before retirement.

Cash withdrawals are subject to tax and you will need to get your tax affairs in order to get a tax directive from SARS in order to cash in your fund.

In South Africa, you generally could not access your pension fund or retirement annuity savings before age 55, except under specific circumstances, for example if your total benefit is less than R15,000 or if you are medically disabled.

However, South Africa's two-pot retirement system, effective from 1 September 2024, allows that a person can cash in up to 30% of their fund pre-retirement.

Some issues to be considered:

1. You can only withdraw 30% of your funds accumulated after 30 September 2024.
2. You can only withdraw once every tax year.
3. The withdrawal is subject to tax at your marginal rate - your highest % rate of tax.

In South Africa, individuals under the age of 55 can access their retirement annuity (RA) funds upon leaving South Africa, subject to specific conditions.

To do so, you must:

Cease Tax Residency: Demonstrate to the South African Revenue Service (SARS) that you have ended your tax residency in South Africa.

Maintain Non-Resident Status for Three Years. This requirement was introduced in the 2020 draft Tax Laws Amendment Bill to prevent immediate withdrawals upon emigration.

After fulfilling these criteria, you can withdraw your RA funds, which can then be transferred abroad. It's important to note that such withdrawals are subject to taxation according to the withdrawal lump sum tax table, where the first R25,000 is tax-free, and amounts above this are taxed on a sliding scale between 18% and 36%.

It's vital that you seek advice from professionals as soon as possible in this regard, given the sensitive political situation, with the South African government unlikely to ignore a mass exodus of funds.

When leaving South Africa, individuals have specific allowances for transferring funds abroad:

1. Single Discretionary Allowance (SDA):R1 million per calendar year without needing tax clearance from the South African Revenue Service (SARS).
2. Foreign Investment Allowance (FIA):R10 million per calendar year can be transferred, but this requires obtaining tax clearance from SARS.

It's vital that you seek advice from professionals as soon as possible in this regard, given the sensitive political situation, with the South African government unlikely to ignore a mass exodus of funds.

Go to the drop-down at the top of this page for various income and cost-of-living scenarios.

Go to the drop-down at the top of this page for various income and cost-of-living scenarios.

Public School (Kindergarten - Matric)
Free (with $500+ p.a. in extra costs)
Includes free education, but parents cover supplies, activities, and meals.
Private School
$5,000 – $30,000+Varies widely by location and school reputation.
Daycare / Preschool
$5,000 – $22,000 p.a.
More expensive for younger children. Some states offer free pre-K.
Homeschooling
$500+ p.a. excl. Extracurriculars
Cost depends on curriculum and resources.

ACCURATE DATA ON A STATE-BY-STATE BASIS COMING TO THIS SITE SOON.

The cost of obtaining a bachelor's degree in the United States varies based on the type of institution and residency status. Here's a general overview:

1. Public Colleges and Universities:

• In-State Students: Approximately $10,490 per year in tuition and fees.
• Out-of-State Students: Around $24,000 per year.

2. Private Colleges and Universities:

• Tuition and Fees: On average, $46,870 per year.

These figures are averages and can vary depending on the specific institution and its location. Additionally, students should budget for other expenses such as housing, meals, books, and supplies.

HOWEVER, Trump has committed to launching the American Academy, and online accredited university that will be free for Americans. There is no indication as at 18 Feb 25 when exactly this will be launched.

As of January 2025, the U.S. economy added 143,000 jobs, with the national unemployment rate edging down to 4.0%.

While job growth has slightly decelerated, the labor market remains robust. However, employers are encountering challenges in finding adequately skilled workers, particularly in sectors like manufacturing and clean energy.

Consequently, competent individuals with relevant skills have favorable prospects for securing employment in the current market.

Yes, you are encouraged to work or start a business the minute you arrive.

Here's an overview of what documents and registrations are required to start a business and how to get it.

Sole Proprietor
If you decide to operate as a sole proprietor, you can do so without formal registrations. This is by far the simplest business structure.

For formal businesses:

Business Name Registration (DBA - Doing Business As or Trading As)
If using a name other than your legal name, register with the state or county clerk.

EIN (Employer Identification Number)
Required for businesses with employees or corporations/LLCs
Get it free from the IRS website.

State Business Registration
LLCs, Corporations, and some Sole Proprietors
File with your state’s Secretary of State.

Business License
Most businesses need a local or state license. Apply with city/county government.

Sales Tax Permit
If selling goods/services subject to sales tax, apply with your state’s Department of Revenue.

Zoning Permits
If operating from a physical location, check with your city or county office.

Health Permits
For food businesses
Local health department

Professional Licenses
If in regulated industries (e.g., law, medicine, finance)
Check with your state licensing board

Additional Considerations

✔ Business Bank Account – Open after getting EIN
✔ Operating Agreement (for LLCs) – Defines ownership and rules
✔ Contracts (if hiring or partnering) – Protects legal interests
✔ Insurance (liability, workers’ comp, etc.) – Required in many states