IMPORTANT NOTE:
Please be aware that all services provided by UNHCR, IOM and partner organizations are free of charge. This includes future processing applications for the ‘Safe Mobility’ initiative.
Do not trust anyone asking you to pay for services relating to ‘Safe Mobility’.
General information on the ‘Safe Mobility’ initiative
The United States government has announced the expansion of lawful pathways to the United States for refugees and migrants in South and Central America.
Through the ‘Safe Mobility’ initiative, eligible refugees and migrants will be considered for humanitarian and other regular pathways to the United States or other countries that may offer such opportunities. Individuals seeking to go to the United States, or other countries participating in the program, should take advantage of these safe and lawful processes.
The United States is establishing Safe Mobility Offices in partner countries in South and Central America, which will serve to direct refugees and migrants to lawful pathways and help them avoid the risks associated with onward movement. The UN Refugee Agency (UNHCR), the International Organization for Migration (IOM), and other partners are supporting this process.
Can I participate in this program?
Depending on your individual situation, you may be eligible to participate in this program.
There are various pathways available depending on the profile and needs of the applicant:
- Refugee Resettlement may be granted to people who meet the definition of refugee under U.S. law and who are of special humanitarian concern to the United States.
- Specifically designated parole processes are available for people of certain nationalities.
- Some migrants with family members in the United States may be eligible for family reunification parole processes.
- Seasonal or temporary employment pathways are an option for some people.
The ‘Safe Mobility’ initiative is now open for:
Cubans, Haitians, and Venezuelans in Colombia on or before June 11, 2023. The ‘Safe Mobility’ initiative in Colombia helps refugees and migrants travel safely and lawfully to the United States and other countries.
Nicaraguan and Venezuelan nationals in Costa Rica on or before June 12, 2023. The ‘Safe Mobility’ initiative in Costa Rica helps refugees and migrants travel safely and lawfully to the United States and other countries.
Cubans, Haitians, Nicaraguans, Venezuelans and Colombians in Ecuador on or before October 18, 2023. The ‘Safe Mobility’ initiative in Ecuador helps refugees and migrants travel safely and lawfully to the United States and other countries.
Guatemalan nationals in Guatemala. The ‘Safe Mobility’ initiative helps Guatemalans travel safely and lawfully to the United States and other countries.
The new procedures provide a pathway to the United States that is lawful and safe, meaning that refugees and migrants do not need to put their lives in the hands of smugglers and attempt dangerous and irregular journeys. Eligible individuals will also have the opportunity to be considered for regular pathways to other countries, such as Spain and Canada.
Information on new Canadian pathways complementary to the Safe Mobility Initiative
For Venezuelans, Haitians and Colombians living in Latin America and the Caribbean with family connections in Canada, Canada has launched a new pathway for safe and regular immigration to Canada.