FAQs About Refugees

Who is considered a refugee?

A refugee is someone who, "owing to a well-founded fear of being persecuted for reasons of race, religion, nationality, membership of a particular social group or political opinion, is outside the country of his or her nationality and is unable to or, owing to such fear, is unwilling to avail himself of the protection of that country."

Who decides who is a refugee?

The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) conducts interviews to decide if a person should be granted refugee status. UNHCR seeks to find what it calls a durable solution for any refugee situation. There are three durable solutions:

1. Voluntary repatriation to the home country
2. Integration into the country of asylum
3. Resettlement in a third country, such as the United States

Which refugees are eligible for U.S. resettlement?

A person who meets the definition of refugee may be eligible for U.S. resettlement if he or she:

• Has a particularly compelling history of persecution
• Is a member of an ethnic or religious group that is considered by the U.S. to be of special humanitarian concern
• Is the spouse, unmarried child or parent of a refugee who has been resettled or is a U.S. permanent resident or an asylee in the U.S.

How are refugees processed for U.S. resettlement?

• 26-Step Security Screening Process

Overseas processing entities interview applicants, prepare paperwork for the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), and arrange medical examinations and background security checks for refugees approved by USCIS. The International Organization for Migration arranges transportation to the U.S. Refugees are expected to repay the cost of their transportation once they get established. Before departure, refugees receive cultural orientation, which provides them with information about life in the U.S. and helps them establish realistic expectations about resettlement.

Who helps refugees resettle in Utah?

• The International Rescue Committee (IRC)
• Catholic Community Services (CCS)

The resettlement agency is the most important source of information and assistance during the refugees’ first months in the U.S. The resettlement agency ensures that refugees are welcomed at the airport; arranges for their housing, furniture and basic household supplies; conducts orientation; and prepares a resettlement plan, which includes referrals to social services and employment.