Trump administration considers 40000 refugee ceiling prioritizing white South Africans

Edited By: Omar Kadir

The administration of President Donald Trump is weighing a plan to set the US refugee admissions limit for the next fiscal year at around 40000, with most places allocated to white South Africans from the Afrikaner community. Officials familiar with the discussions said about 30000 spots could be reserved for this minority, marking a notable break from the traditional refugee policy. The figure would be far lower than the 100000 admitted under President Joe Biden in 2024 but above the record low of 15000 set by Trump in 2021. The White House says no final decision will be made before the fiscal year begins on October 1, though lower caps have also been considered.

The plan follows a program Trump launched early in his presidency, claiming Afrikaners face racial discrimination and violence in South Africa, a claim rejected by Pretoria. It also includes a smaller number of Afghans who aided US forces and possibly Ukrainians, with some slots unassigned for other groups. Refugee operations have been reorganized, with Health and Human Services staff redirected to support the program, including a team sent to Pretoria despite limited experience in refugee screening.

Some early arrivals have reported difficulties settling in the US, pointing to reduced benefits and challenges finding jobs or housing. Federal officials say basic needs support is provided, but many arrivals expected more assistance. With 37 million refugees worldwide, the administration’s final decision will determine US priorities and signal a significant shift in resettlement policy.