The Afghan Placement and Assistance (APA) Program was put into motion in late August by the State Department and launched on September 1st, 2021. Most Afghan nationals will be paroled into the United States through the APA program. This program will offer legal status in the United States and expedited work authorization. During the 30 to 90-day program period, resettlement agencies will provide basic core services that are similar to core services under the United States Refugee Admissions Program. This includes, but is not limited to:
- Reception services
- Decent, safe, and sanitary housing
- Household items and furniture
- Culturally appropriate, ready-to-eat meal upon arrival
- Adequate food supplies
- Seasonally appropriate clothing
- Home visits
- School enrollment
- Selective Service registration, as applicable
- Transportation support
- Cultural Orientation
- Assistance enrolling in English Language Training
- Assistance enrolling in employment services, as appropriate and eligible
- Assistance accessing health services, as possible
- Assistance enrolling in public benefits, as eligible
- Limited financial assistance
The Matching Grant Program can be accessed at the following offices: