Resettlement

Resettled family

Refugees granted admission to the U.S. are fully documented and invited by the U.S. Government to resettle here.

Before receiving approval for resettlement in the U.S., refugees undergo a rigorous screening process.  First, refugees must prove to the satisfaction of U.S. authorities that they do, in fact, meet the definition of a refugee as set forth by the UN.  Then, each refugee must undergo a background check and a medical examination. The final step to approval is sponsorship. No refugee may be admitted to the U.S. without the support of an agency such as IRIS to guide him/her through the often difficult first months of resettlement. 

The U.S. Government provides refugees with 8 months of medical assistance, as well as access to Cash Assistance and Food Stamps, if eligible.

Photograph by Arturo Soto 

 

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