How Can I Bring My Family To The United States From Afghanistan?

The U. S. Government is committed to helping Afghan citizens and Afghans reunite with their family members who remain in Afghanistan. There are three possible immigration options for reuniting with family members: Form DS-4317, Family Reunification Assistance for Afghan Parolees’ Immediate Family Members Outside the United States, and Form I-730, Refugee/Asylee Relative Petition, with U. S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).

The U. S. Department of State has announced that Afghan citizens residing in the United States who hold Green Cards and Special Immigrant Status (SIV) can apply for family reunification. To begin immigrant visa processing for a relative overseas, the LPR or U. S. citizen files an I-130 petition. Refugees, asylees, Afghan parolees, and SIV holders can apply to have certain family members join them in the USA.

U. S.-based asylees, refugees, and SIV recipients from Afghanistan can file for parents, spouses, and unmarried children under 21 who are outside of Afghanistan. For more information and to learn about the application process and eligibility for family-based immigrant petitions, visit the new landing page on the State Department website.

With this new form, tens of thousands of Afghans who came to the US around that time are eligible to apply for reunification with their immediate relatives. U. S. citizens may also apply for asylum, with videos in Dari and Pashto now available.

To get a quick overview of family reunification options, find your immigration status, complete and submit Form I-130, Petition for Alien Relative, and contact your family members to apply for visas. If approved, you may be eligible to apply for lawful permanent resident status (a Green Card).

For a non-immigrant visa, Afghans must prove they have the funds to afford their visit and will return to Afghanistan. An Afghan asylee may file Form I-730, Refugee/Asylee Relative Petition, with U. S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).

Can US Citizens Travel To Afghanistan?

U. S. citizens in Afghanistan requiring consular services should contact any U. S. embassy or consulate. It is advised that U. S. citizens and Lawful Permanent Residents (LPRs) do not travel to Afghanistan, even to accompany eligible family members for relocation, due to significant risks such as terrorism, wrongful detention, civil unrest, kidnapping, and crime. The U. S. Embassy in Kabul suspended operations in August 2021, limiting the U. S. government's ability to provide consular services in Afghanistan.

Dual citizens born in Afghanistan are instructed to apply for an entry permit rather than a visa for their U. S. passport. The State Department has issued a Level 4: Do Not Travel advisory for Afghanistan due to the high risk of violence and kidnapping against U. S. citizens. All travelers, regardless of nationality, require a visa to enter Afghanistan, with certain exceptions for those born in Afghanistan. Tourist visas are generally single-entry and cannot be renewed while in the country.

The advisory underscores the danger posed by ongoing armed conflict and a high crime rate. Harassment and violence at Taliban checkpoints have further compromised the safety of Americans. In conclusion, it is strongly recommended that U. S. citizens avoid all travel to Afghanistan for their safety.

How Much Money Is The U.S. Giving Afghan Refugees?

In Fiscal Year 2022, the U. S. allocated nearly $60 million (over Rs 13 billion) for refugee assistance and their host communities. Refugees, who flee war or persecution, must seek permanent-resident status after one year. Many are unfamiliar with the English language and U. S. culture upon arrival. The assistance includes approximately $119 million from the Department of State's Bureau of Population, Refugees, and Migration, with plans to spend $2, 275 per evacuee during ongoing resettlement efforts.

Despite the withdrawal of U. S. forces from Afghanistan, the country remains the largest donor to Afghan citizens, providing $11. 11 billion since 2002 and over $1. 1 billion in humanitarian aid since August 2021. Recently, $308 million was announced for Afghans facing economic challenges. Cash transfers to Kabul occur bi-weekly, with the UN also sending $3. 6 billion to Afghanistan in 2022 and 2023. The U. S. has approved $6. 3 billion for Afghan refugee resettlement and $6.

4 billion for processing and screening efforts. With more than 50, 000 Afghan evacuees expected in the U. S., the government supports refugees through designated assistance programs to facilitate their integration and rebuilding in the country.

What Are My Options If I Leave Afghanistan?

The options available for Afghans seeking to leave their country depend on their citizenship, immigration status, and entry method into the U. S. The immigration process is the initial step, and some family members may receive U. S. Government assistance for evacuating Afghanistan. Alternatives include using land routes to neighboring countries, with discussions about establishing a "safe corridor." Questions persist regarding entitlement to refugee status for Afghans, with some governments pledging to resettle them.

However, many Afghans express fears that commitments may not be upheld, especially those allied with Western forces. There is an urgent need for legal avenues for asylum and basic rights for those displaced. The U. S. concluded its military presence in Afghanistan on August 30, 2021, and with the Taliban's control, barriers to departure have increased. Afghans may now explore visa options in Turkey, UAE, or Spain while humanitarian organizations remain active in providing support. Overall, Afghan nationals continue to seek assistance in navigating their precarious situations, with the potential impact of Taliban rule and terrorism looming large over their futures.

Which State Is Good For Afghan Refugees?

California has resettled the largest number of Afghan refugees, accommodating over 31, 000 arrivals, which constitutes roughly one-third of all Afghan resettlements in the U. S. This figure is more than double that of Texas, the second-highest state, which is set to receive approximately 4, 481 Afghan evacuees. Oklahoma follows with an expected 1, 800 arrivals. Since the U. S. withdrawal from Afghanistan, California continues to lead, projecting to accept an additional 5, 225 evacuees.

Other states with significant resettlements include Virginia, Washington, and New York. The Department of State is actively processing referrals for those eligible under the U. S. Refugee Admissions Program, as the U. S. aims to support refugee integration. In total, around 37, 000 Afghan refugees are anticipated to arrive across most states, with exceptions for Hawaii, South Dakota, West Virginia, and Wyoming. Public sentiment appears supportive, with over 70% of Americans favoring the resettlement of Afghans who assisted the U.

S. military. Local and state governments, including those in Indiana and Utah, have expressed willingness to help these evacuees find jobs and integrate into communities, reflecting a nationwide effort to provide a humane response to the Afghan refugee crisis.

Can I Immigrate To The United States If My Family Leaves Afghanistan?

The U. S. Government can assist family members in departing Afghanistan, but entry into the United States requires approval from immigration officials. U. S. citizens can petition for immediate immigration for their spouse, children, and parents. Additionally, the immediate family of U. S. citizens, such as siblings and unmarried adult children, may also immigrate once a visa becomes available. Individuals granted asylum can apply for a Green Card after one year.

U. S. citizens and lawful permanent residents (LPRs) in the U. S. can file an I-130 petition to initiate the immigrant visa process for relatives overseas. The Department of State has launched a dedicated Afghan family reunification landing page with pertinent information. Afghan citizens who supported the U. S. military as translators or interpreters may qualify to move to the U. S. with their families. It is crucial for individuals not to travel to Afghanistan to accompany family members, as U.

S. assistance can be accessed without being in the country. For those in third countries with immediate family members holding legal U. S. status, petitions can be filed for resettlement. The Priority-2 (P-2) program allows eligible Afghan nationals to apply for U. S. resettlement. Spouses and unmarried children under 21 of refugees or asylees can also immigrate to the U. S. However, there can be long waits for family-based visas due to limited availability. Humanitarian parole offers temporary entry in certain circumstances while individuals may seek permanent status thereafter.

Can A Family Member Leave Afghanistan?

The immigration process for U. S. citizens seeking to reunite with family members in Afghanistan involves several steps. Family members may receive assistance from the U. S. Government to depart Afghanistan, but they can only enter the U. S. with approval from immigration officials. U. S. citizens can immediately help their spouses, children, and parents immigrate. The U. S. is committed to reuniting Afghan allies with their families left behind, despite no special provisions for family members of U.

S. troops. Many Afghans must navigate a challenging bureaucratic limbo following the Taliban takeover, with ongoing fears about their future in the U. S. The Biden administration has extended the ability for Afghans to apply for legal residence for two additional years, easing some immediate concerns. U. S. citizens and lawful permanent residents (LPRs) should refrain from traveling to Afghanistan to accompany eligible family members. Family reunification remains a priority, but those who are not previously disclosed may face future relocation challenges.

Those in Afghanistan must provide accurate information when filling out immigration forms to avoid delays. The U. S. Embassy in Kabul ceased operations on August 31, 2021, and the UNHCR does not facilitate evacuations from Afghanistan. Senator Padilla emphasizes the importance of safely evacuating U. S. citizens and vulnerable populations.

Does The United States Support Reunification Of Afghan Families?

Since August 2021, the United States has actively facilitated the reunification and resettlement of Afghan families after its military withdrawal. While successful reunifications have occurred, many families remain separated, facing significant struggles. The U. S. Government is dedicated to aiding both citizens and Afghans in the United States to reconnect with relatives in Afghanistan. To streamline this process, the Department of State introduced Form DS-4317 on January 12, 2023, specifically for family reunification.

This new form empowers Afghan parolees, including those granted temporary protected status, to apply for reunification with their immediate family members. A centralized webpage has been created to provide comprehensive immigration options tailored to individuals based on their citizenship and immigration status. Importantly, it highlights that Afghans should not travel to Afghanistan to assist family members in these processes, emphasizing that U. S. assistance is not contingent upon their physical presence there.

The report outlines various avenues for family reunification, addressing complex procedures for Afghan nationals seeking to bring relatives from Afghanistan or third countries. Videos in Dari and Pashto are now available to aid understanding. Through these efforts, the U. S. remains committed to supporting Afghan families in their reunification endeavors.

How Much Is A Visa From Afghanistan To The USA?

On the day of your U. S. visa interview, nonrefundable application fees apply: $160 for B-1 (Business) and B-2 (Tourism) visas, $190 for H, L, O, P, Q, and R visas, and $270 for E visas. Afghan citizens must pay the $160 fee to visit the U. S., in addition to any applicable reciprocity or visa issuance fees. A U. S. tourist visa generally allows a 6-month stay. It is essential for Afghan nationals to secure a visa before traveling, even though Afghanistan is not on the list of U.

S. visa-required countries. The processing time for a visa can vary. Afghan citizens previously employed by or on behalf of the U. S. government may qualify for a Special Immigrant Visa (SIV), with specific eligibility requirements detailed by USCIS. Those applying for a visa to Afghanistan must also obtain a visa, which is typically valid for a 30-day stay. American citizens traveling to Afghanistan must secure visas as well. For specific categories like B2 (tourist) visas, the current fee is $185, which is strictly non-refundable.

Various exemptions and expedited processing opportunities for certain Afghan nationals are available until September 30, 2024. Overall, understanding the involved fees and requirements for both visiting the U. S. and applying for a visa from Afghanistan is crucial for prospective travelers.

Is The DV Lottery Available For Afghanistan?

The Diversity Visa (DV) Lottery Program eligibility list is published annually by the U. S. Department of State. Afghanistan is confirmed as an eligible country for the DV-2026 lottery program, which allows Afghan applicants to apply. The application period for DV-2026 runs from October 2, 2024, to November 5, 2024. Currently, no entries are being accepted, but successful entrants can check their confirmation information starting May 3, 2025. Notably, residents from Macau, SAR, and Taiwan are also eligible to participate in the lottery.

The eligible countries for the DV-2024 program were previously listed, with a provision to ensure the validity of participation. The program allows a limited number of immigrant visas annually, known as Diversity Visas (DVs), with up to 55, 000 available for DV-2026. Although the registration process is free, interview selectees will incur costs.

The DV-2025 entry period was from October 4, 2023, to November 7, 2023, and participants must check the status of their applications by September 30, 2025. The lottery applies random selection from qualified entries, contributing to a diverse immigration pool each year.

As a reminder, eligibility can vary annually; thus, it is crucial to refer to the Department of State’s publication for the most current listing of eligible countries and requirements. The DV Lottery statistically attracts thousands of applicants globally, contributing significantly to the immigration spectrum in the U. S.

Which Family Member Can Sponsor You In USA?

As a U. S. citizen, you can sponsor four main types of relatives for a green card: your spouse, your parents (if you are at least 21 years old), your children, and your siblings. The initial step in this process involves applying for a family-based immigrant visa, which is categorized into two types: immediate relative visas for close family members, including spouses and unmarried children, and family preference visas for other relatives.

To sponsor a foreign relative, the U. S. citizen must file Form I-130. Both U. S. citizens and lawful permanent residents (LPR) can sponsor immediate relatives, but the scope is broader for citizens. Family preference categories allow additional relatives to be sponsored, though this process can take longer due to annual caps on visa availability.

Moreover, as of 2023, there is a "Non-Family Member Sponsorship Program" (NFSP) which permits U. S. citizens and LPRs to sponsor non-relatives under certain conditions. However, U. S. immigration law restricts sponsorship to certain family members, for example, cousins cannot be directly sponsored for a green card.

Ultimately, U. S. citizens have the potential to sponsor multiple immediate relatives, providing a pathway for permanent residency and, ultimately, citizenship in the United States.