On February 7, 2025, the Department of State (DOS) announced that pursuant to an executive order, processing of all refugee applications under the U.S. Refugee Admissions Program (USRAP) is suspended, including following-to-join refugee (FTJ-R) travel eligibility determinations conducted at consular posts and embassies overseas. DOS said that “FTJ-R beneficiaries whose cases are already at a U.S. embassy or consulate should contact that embassy or consulate directly to inquire about the status of their travel eligibility interviews and for instructions on passport retrieval if they have not already received such guidance.” FTJ-R beneficiaries whose cases are at the National Visa Center (NVC) should contact NVC using the Public Inquiry Form.
DOS said that FTJ-R beneficiaries in possession of unexpired boarding foils should direct questions about entry into the United States to U.S. Customs and Border Protection.
