Key Takeaways
• Nebraska refugee support requires official USRAP recognition and assignment by a Voluntary Agency like Lutheran Family Services.
• The US Refugee Admissions Program was suspended on January 20, 2025, halting new refugee admissions nationally.
• Nebraska agencies provide housing, job help, legal aid, and cultural orientation despite federal suspension challenges.
If you are a refugee or asylum seeker hoping to settle in Nebraska, or if you are helping someone in this situation, it’s important to know exactly who qualifies for support, what resources are available, and what steps to take next. The landscape in 2025 is shaped by both federal and state decisions, especially after the suspension of the United States Refugee Admissions Program (USRAP) on January 20, 2025. This guide will help you quickly figure out if you qualify for help in Nebraska, what you can expect, and what to do if you’re not eligible right now.
Who Qualifies for Refugee Support in Nebraska?
To receive state-level support as a refugee in Nebraska, you must meet certain criteria. Here’s a clear breakdown:
YES, you qualify if:
– You have been officially recognized as a refugee by the United States government through the USRAP process.
– You have completed all required federal security and health screenings before arrival.
– You have been assigned to Nebraska by a national Voluntary Agency (VOLAG) such as Lutheran Family Services (LFS), Church World Service, or Global Refuge, based on factors like family ties, available community support, and job opportunities.
– You are an unaccompanied minor released to a sponsor in Nebraska, tracked by federal agencies.
– You are an asylum seeker who has been granted asylum status by the United States government and are now living in Nebraska.
NO, you do not qualify if:
– You have not been officially recognized as a refugee or asylee by the United States government.
– You are still waiting for a decision on your asylum application and have not received any legal status.
– You entered the United States without going through the official refugee or asylum process.
– You are in Nebraska on a different type of visa (such as a student or work visa) and do not have refugee or asylee status.
Detailed Requirements and Examples
Let’s look at what these requirements mean in real life:
1. Official Refugee Status
– Example: Ahmed and his family fled Afghanistan and were processed through the USRAP. After passing all background checks and health screenings, they were assigned to Nebraska by a VOLAG. They qualify for state-level support and can access services from agencies like Lutheran Family Services.
2. Assignment to Nebraska
– Example: Maria, a refugee from Ukraine, has a cousin living in Omaha. Because of this family connection, the resettlement agency placed her in Nebraska, where she can get help with housing, job searches, and cultural orientation.
3. Unaccompanied Minors
– Example: A 15-year-old from Central America arrives in the United States without parents and is released to a sponsor in Nebraska. Federal agencies track these cases, and the child can receive support from local organizations.
4. Asylum Status
– Example: Samuel applied for asylum after arriving in the United States. After a long process, he was granted asylum and moved to Nebraska. He now qualifies for many of the same services as refugees.
Disqualifying Factors
You will not qualify for Nebraska’s refugee support if:
– You are still waiting for your asylum case to be decided and have not been granted any legal status.
– You entered Nebraska without going through the official refugee or asylum process.
– You are in the United States on a temporary visa (like a tourist, student, or work visa) and do not have refugee or asylee status.
– You have been denied refugee or asylum status by the United States government.
What Happens If You Don’t Qualify?
If you do not meet the requirements for refugee or asylee support in Nebraska, you still have some options:
- Legal Aid: Organizations like the Immigrant Legal Center + Refugee Empowerment Center can help you understand your legal options, including how to apply for asylum or other forms of protection.
- Community Support: Some faith-based groups and advocacy organizations offer limited help to people waiting for their cases to be decided, such as food, clothing, or referrals to legal services.
- Alternative Immigration Pathways: If you do not qualify as a refugee or asylee, you may be able to apply for other immigration programs, such as Temporary Protected Status (TPS) or humanitarian parole, depending on your situation. You can find more information about these options on the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) website.
How to Improve Your Chances of Qualifying
If you are not currently eligible for refugee or asylee support in Nebraska, here are steps you can take to improve your chances:
- File a Complete and Accurate Application: Make sure your refugee or asylum application is filled out correctly and includes all required documents. Mistakes or missing information can delay your case or lead to denial.
- Seek Legal Help: Work with a trusted immigration lawyer or a recognized legal aid organization. They can help you understand the process, prepare your case, and avoid common problems.
- Stay Informed: Federal policies can change quickly, especially with the 90-day reviews of the USRAP suspension. Keep in touch with local agencies and advocacy groups for updates.
- Build Community Connections: If you have family or close friends in Nebraska, let your resettlement agency know. Having a support network in the state can increase your chances of being placed there if you are approved as a refugee.
What Support and Resources Are Available in Nebraska?
If you qualify, Nebraska offers a strong network of support for refugees and asylees, even during times of federal uncertainty. Here’s what you can expect:
1. Resettlement Agencies
- Lutheran Family Services (LFS): LFS is one of the main agencies helping refugees in Nebraska. They work with national partners to provide:
- Cultural orientation classes
- Help finding a job
- Support with finding and paying for housing
- Community integration activities
- Special programs for refugees from countries like Afghanistan and Ukraine
- Community Services of Nebraska (CSS): CSS offers:
- Help with transportation
- Community and cultural orientation
- Job and housing assistance
- Immigrant Legal Center + Refugee Empowerment Center: This group focuses on:
- Legal help for immigration cases
- Support with finding work
- Help with transportation and affordable housing
- Faith-Based Organizations: Six out of nine refugee resettlement agencies in Nebraska are faith-based. These groups provide:
- Moral and spiritual support
- Grassroots help with daily needs
- Advocacy for strong refugee programs
2. State and Community Initiatives
- University of Nebraska-Lincoln Forced Migration and Resettlement Community Partnership Symposium: This event brings together experts, educators, and community leaders to talk about how to better support refugees and immigrants in Nebraska. It helps build stronger partnerships and share new ideas.
-
Nebraska Legislature Support: Nebraska has a history of passing resolutions that support refugees and recognize their positive impact on the state.
3. Practical Support Services
- Housing: Agencies help refugees find safe and affordable housing, though rising rent costs in Nebraska cities can make this difficult.
- Employment: Support includes job search help, resume writing, and connecting with local employers. Agencies are working to overcome language barriers and encourage businesses to hire refugees.
- Transportation: Many refugees need help getting to work, school, or appointments. Agencies provide information about public transportation and sometimes help with rides.
- Education and Language: Refugees can access English classes and help enrolling their children in school.
Challenges Refugees Face in Nebraska
Even with strong support, refugees in Nebraska face some real challenges:
- High Rent Costs: Finding affordable housing is hard, especially in cities where prices are rising.
- Language Barriers: Not speaking English well can make it tough to find a job or talk to landlords and teachers.
- Employer Hesitancy: Some businesses are unsure about hiring refugees, so agencies are working to build trust and show the benefits of hiring newcomers.
- Transportation: Getting around without a car can be difficult, especially in areas with limited public transit.
How the Federal Suspension Affects Nebraska
On January 20, 2025, President Trump signed an Executive Order that suspended the United States Refugee Admissions Program. This means:
- No new refugees are being admitted to the United States, including Nebraska, until the suspension is reviewed (every 90 days).
- Nebraska’s resettlement agencies are on hold for new arrivals but are still helping those already in the state.
- Local advocacy groups are urging Nebraska’s leaders to support the return of refugee admissions and keep Nebraska a welcoming place.
What If the Program Restarts?
If the federal government lifts the suspension, Nebraska will likely return to welcoming new refugees. The state’s agencies are ready to help as soon as admissions resume. If you are waiting to come to Nebraska, stay in touch with your resettlement agency and watch for updates.
Key Contacts for Help in Nebraska
If you need help or have questions, reach out to these organizations:
- Lutheran Family Services Nebraska
Phone: (402) 536-3500
Email: [email protected] -
University of Nebraska-Lincoln Forced Migration Symposium Contact
Emira Ibrahimpasic
Email: [email protected] -
Advocacy Groups: Restoring Dignity and Nebraska Appleseed are active in supporting refugees and can connect you with resources.
What Should You Do Next?
- If you qualify: Contact a local resettlement agency like Lutheran Family Services or Community Services of Nebraska. They will guide you through the process and connect you with the help you need.
- If you are waiting for a decision: Stay in touch with legal aid organizations and advocacy groups. They can help you understand your rights and next steps.
- If you do not qualify: Explore other immigration options, seek legal advice, and connect with community groups for support.
Where to Find Official Information
For the most up-to-date information on refugee and asylum eligibility, visit the U.S. Department of State’s Refugee Admissions Program page. This site explains the USRAP process and provides updates on policy changes.
Summary and Takeaways
- Eligibility: You must have official refugee or asylee status and be assigned to Nebraska to get state-level support.
- Disqualifying Factors: No legal status, waiting for a decision, or being in the United States on another visa means you do not qualify for refugee support.
- Support Available: Nebraska offers help with housing, jobs, legal issues, and community integration through a network of agencies and organizations.
- Challenges: High rent, language barriers, and transportation are real issues, but agencies are working to help.
- Federal Suspension: As of January 20, 2025, new refugee admissions are paused, but Nebraska is ready to welcome newcomers when the program restarts.
- Next Steps: Contact local agencies, stay informed, and seek legal help if needed.
As reported by VisaVerge.com, Nebraska’s strong tradition of welcoming refugees and the ongoing work of local agencies mean that, even during uncertain times, support is available for those who qualify. If you are unsure about your eligibility or need help with your case, reach out to one of the organizations listed above for guidance.
Learn Today
USRAP → United States Refugee Admissions Program that processes refugees for entry and resettlement in the US.
VOLAG → Voluntary Agency that partners with the US government to resettle refugees in local communities.
Asylum Seeker → Individual seeking protection granted legal asylum status after application approval by US authorities.
Refugee → Person fleeing persecution recognized and admitted by the US government through official programs.
Suspension → Temporary halt of the US Refugee Admissions Program effective January 20, 2025, pending reviews.
This Article in a Nutshell
Nebraska’s refugee support hinges on official USRAP status and assignment. Suspension of USRAP since January 20, 2025, pauses new arrivals but local agencies maintain vital services for existing refugees and asylees, emphasizing legal aid, housing, and community integration.
— By VisaVerge.com
