SIV Program Active, But Gov’t-Funded Resettlement Support Closed: Shawn VanDiver
Shawn VanDiver, head of the organization helping Afghans resettle in the United States, announced on Friday, February 28 that the Special Immigrant Visa (SIV) program is still active and has not been stopped. However, government support for resettlement has been canceled for visa holders.
VanDiver posted on X (formerly Twitter) that Afghan nationals with approved visas can still travel to the U.S. at their own expense. Contrary to some rumors, the program is still operational, and there have been no changes in the visa issuance process.
He further emphasized that “the only thing permanently canceled is the government resettlement support, which SIV holders used to receive until January 20 upon arrival.” This support included financial assistance and basic services to help refugees start their lives in the U.S., but it is no longer provided due to changes in U.S. immigration policies.
“The SIV program is NOT closed. What’s closed, permanently, is the government funded resettlement support that refugees and SIVs used to receive (before Jan 20th) on arrival,” VanDiver stated.
The SIV program is one of the main pathways for Afghan nationals who worked with the U.S. government in Afghanistan. In recent months, concerns had arisen about the suspension of this program, but U.S. officials and immigration advocates have reassured that the application process is still ongoing.
The cancellation of resettlement support has raised concerns among Afghan refugees, particularly regarding their ability to settle in the U.S. without government assistance. Despite this, efforts continue to ensure the safe relocation of those who have risked their lives for the U.S. mission in Afghanistan.
As the situation evolves, both Afghan applicants and U.S. officials must navigate these policy changes carefully, ensuring that the program continues to offer the necessary support for those seeking refuge.
The suspension of the U.S. refugee program has drawn significant criticism from veterans and U.S. officials who emphasize the importance of fulfilling commitments made to Afghan allies. Advocates urge the government to resume funding for resettlement programs, stressing that the future of thousands of Afghans depends on these initiatives.
The shift in policy has raised questions about the U.S.’s ability to honor its promises to those who assisted them during the Afghanistan war.
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