On February 7, US President Donald Trump signed an Executive Order addressing what he termed “egregious actions” by South Africa, granting Afrikaners refugee status and facilitating their resettlement in the United States. This move came in response to President Cyril Ramaphosa’s signing of the Land Expropriation Bill into law.
The South African Chamber of Commerce in the USA reported receiving more than 10,000 relocation inquiries within 18 hours of Trump’s announcement. Immigration attorney Gwen Vermeulen of Move Up highlighted key aspects of the order, noting that it prioritizes Afrikaner refugees and suspends aid to South Africa. However, she cautioned that US visa decision-makers have yet to approve any refugee claims.
Legal Pathways for Afrikaners
Vermeulen outlined two legal pathways for Afrikaners seeking to take up Trump’s offer:
- Refugee Resettlement from Outside the US:
- Applicants must demonstrate a well-founded fear of persecution based on race, religion, nationality, membership in a social group, or political opinion.
- A referral is required from entities such as the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), the US Embassy, or designated NGOs.
- Applicants undergo pre-screening by the Resettlement Support Center (RSC) and an interview with a US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) officer.
- Comprehensive background checks and medical examinations are conducted to ensure no security or public health risks.
- Approved individuals receive visas under INA § 207 and access support services upon arrival in the US.
- Asylum Application at a US Port of Entry:
- Applicants can enter the US on various visas and request asylum at a port of entry.
- They must file an I-589 asylum application within one year of arrival, with certain exceptions.
- Evidence of persecution must be presented during an interview with a USCIS asylum officer.
- Successful applicants can apply for permanent residency after one year.
Picture: IOL
Vermeulen emphasized the importance of gathering comprehensive evidence, such as documentation on land expropriation, discrimination, and threats. She also recommended seeking legal representation due to the complexity of US immigration law. “Navigating US immigration law is intricate, and professional guidance is crucial,” she said.
Trump’s Executive Order has sparked significant controversy, with critics accusing him of misrepresenting South Africa’s land reform policies. Organizations like AfriForum have declined the refugee offer, while the EFF has called for stronger ties with BRICS nations and the revocation of citizenship for those who accept Trump’s offer.
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