Fulfilling America's Commitment to Afghans

The Secretary of Defense has approved for the Department of Defense (DoD), through U.S. Northern Command (USNORTHCOM), to provide to the Department of State (DoS) temporary housing, sustainment and support inside the United States for Afghan Special Immigrant Visa (SIV) principal applicants, their families, and other individuals at risk. DoD will provide support for up to 50,000 individuals at suitable facilities, in permanent or temporary structures, as quickly as possible. Support will be provided on DoD installations and potentially at contracted non-DoD land and facilities.

These installations have the capacity to house and provide essential support to vulnerable Afghans with no impact to training and military readiness. USNORTHCOM, the DoD lead for Operation Allies Refuge within the continental United States, is working with DoS and Department of Homeland Security to provide the right resources and capabilities at each installation and will provide updates as information and sourcing solutions are identified.

Our first priority is to provide shelter and security while we continue to build additional infrastructure to meet needs, such as religious areas or recreation areas.

The health and safety of U.S. personnel and vulnerable Afghans are paramount. DoD personnel supporting the operation are taking maximum precautions prescribed by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and base leadership. Afghans are also being encouraged to follow CDC recommendations for COVID mitigation.

This initiative follows through on America’s commitment to Afghan citizens who have helped the United States – providing essential support at secure locations, where these Afghan citizens and their families can safely complete the necessary steps for residing in the United States.

Assisting Resettled Afghans

Refugee resettlement would not be possible without the support of state and local governments, our resettlement partners and affiliates, non-governmental organizations, faith-based organizations, advocacy groups, and volunteers.

Tens of thousands of people in local communities across the United States ensure the success of the U.S. Refugee Admissions Program (USRAP) by welcoming and helping integrate refugees from around the world. Those with an interest in assisting resettled Afghans and refugees are encouraged to reach out to their local refugee resettlement agency for information about support opportunities within their community.

A list of resettlement agencies and affiliate contacts can be found at http://www.wrapsnet.org.