This article was last updated on February 28, 2025. 

Summary

At this time, the International Organization for Migration (IOM) cannot provide travel assistance to Afghan Special Immigrant Visa (SIV) recipients. However, people with SIVs can still purchase their own plane tickets to travel. This article explains why this has happened and provides links to information that might be useful to people who are planning to travel.

Litigation Update

In February 2025, IRAP filed a lawsuit against the U.S. government called Pacito v. Trump. This lawsuit argues that it is illegal for the government to pause the U.S. Refugee Admissions Program (USRAP) and related funding. This included some funding that provides for SIV recipients to receive “reception and placement” services when they arrive in the United States.

On February 25, 2025, a federal judge ruled that while this case is in progress, the government cannot withhold some of the money that is used for this purpose. However, it is important to note that we do not know yet what effect the judge’s order will have on actual services available for SIV recipients in the United States. We will post updates to this page when we have more information.

IOM Travel Assistance Is Suspended

As of January 24, 2025, the Department of State has stopped giving money to most foreign assistance programs. This includes programs that help SIV applicants travel to the United States. As a result, IOM is not allowed to arrange flights and relocation assistance for anyone.

Afghan SIV Recipients Can Still Travel

It is important to remember:

• This policy change does not affect whether you can receive a Special Immigrant Visa. Special Immigrant Visas are still being issued. 
• You do not need to wait for IOM to arrange your travel to the United States. If you have been issued an SIV, you can purchase your own flights and arrange your own travel to the United States.

The government has also paused funding for resettlement agencies in the United States that provide services to refugees and people with SIVs. Some resettlement agencies have continued to provide services, while others have stopped. At this time, it is unclear if people with SIVs who self-travel will be able to receive any resettlement benefits when they arrive, such as housing or employment assistance.

Additional information and resources

IRAP has made some resources that have more detail about what you can expect when you’re traveling to US airports, as well as information about your rights. These resources are printable and designed so that you can take them with you when you travel.

• General information 
  • What it is: This resource has suggestions for how to prepare for your trip and your arrival. 
  • Who it’s for: It’s designed for anyone who’s arriving at a US airport for the first time, including SIVs. Even if you’ve gone to the US before, we recommend reading this resource to make sure you understand what things are like at US airports right now.
• Know Your Rights for Travel
  • What it is: A guide that explains what SIVs should know before coming to the United States. It includes a letter from IRAP that you can use to explain to US customs officials that you are a Special Immigrant Visa holder.