The U.S. Department of State has announced a suspension of all following-to-join refugee (FTJ-R) processing under the U.S. Refugee Admissions Program (USRAP) in accordance with Executive Order 14163, “Realigning the United States Refugee Admissions Program” issued by the President on January 20, 2025. The U.S. Department of State confirmed that this suspension includes FTJ-R travel eligibility determinations at embassies and consulates worldwide.
According to the U.S. Department of State, FTJ-R beneficiaries whose cases are already at a U.S. embassy or consulate should directly contact the respective post to check the status of their travel eligibility interviews or obtain instructions regarding passport retrieval. Meanwhile, those whose cases remain at the National Visa Center (NVC) should use the Public Inquiry Form to seek updates.
The U.S. Department of State further noted that FTJ-R beneficiaries who hold unexpired boarding foils should reach out to the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) for any concerns regarding their entry into the United States. The U.S. Department of State has indicated that it may provide additional instructions to affected individuals at a future date.
For further information, the U.S. Department of State advises all affected individuals to contact their local U.S. embassy, consulate, or the NVC for case-specific guidance.
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Kishor Panthi
View More PostsKishor Panthi is the founder and editor-in-chief of Khasokhas and NepYork. He is the author of three books, “Kampan,” "UNTRANSLATABLE" and “Zero Mile.” He writes about social issues, immigration, and politics.
