New York, NY--Today, the Trump administration published its refugee admissions goal for FY26, confirming early reports that the U.S. will admit the fewest number of refugees in the 45-year history of the refugee program. The FY26 Presidential Determination of 7,500 refugees will make the refugee program accessible primarily to Afrikaners from South Africa, excluding tens of thousands of individuals with approved refugee status and who are vulnerable and at high risk but in limbo since January 2025.
The U.S. Refugee Admissions Program has long been a critical lifesaving program offering a safe and legal pathway for people who have fled violence and persecution. For over four decades, it has saved hundreds of thousands of lives while simultaneously enriching local communities and economies across the country.
Murad Awawdeh, President and CEO, New York Immigration Coalition:
“Trump’s war on asylum seekers and refugees is no secret, but today his administration reached a new low. After defying U.S. law by failing to consult with Congress, the Trump administration unequivocally shut the door on our proud, centuries-long tradition of welcoming those fleeing violence and persecution, leaving thousands in limbo and many more in peril. The administration's justifications for practically eliminating refugee admissions remains vague, posing a major threat to the cultural and economic vitality of New York. Refugee communities have stabilized neighborhoods and contributed significantly to our economy from Brentwood to Buffalo. We call on the Trump administration to reverse course and uphold our country’s long standing refugee program by prioritizing those most at-risk, including Afghans, Sudanese, Congolese, Somalis, religious minorities, unaccompanied refugee children, families awaiting reunification, and others.”