Last checked: 24 October 2026
First 90 days
Who helps you
ORR coordinates placement and initial resettlement services up to 90 days through the Program of Initial Resettlement (PIR). Refugees are typically assigned a local resettlement provider [source].
The Embassy FAQ describes that support as typically for 30 to 90 days, with limited help on housing, orientation and basic benefits [source]. ACF's page says up to 90 days and does not state a 30-day minimum [source]. The two pages use different wording. Read both.
PIR is delivered by eight organisations: Catholic Charities USA, Church World Service, Ethiopian Community Development Council, Global Refuge, HIAS, International Rescue Committee, U.S. Committee for Refugees and Immigrants, and World Relief [source].
What the provider helps with
- Airport welcome
- Temporary or longer-term housing with food, necessities, furnishings and household items (hotels may be used where housing is limited)
- Personal case management and a resettlement plan
- Connections to cash and medical assistance
- Referrals for the domestic medical screening, jobs, social services and school enrolment
Pets are not on that list. The Embassy says the programme does not move pets and recommends waiting at least 90 days. See Bringing your pets [source].
Do these early
- Sign up for benefits immediately: they are time-limited. See Benefits checklist [source].
- Get the ORR-funded domestic medical screening soon after arrival [source].
- Check your Social Security card arrives.
- Keep your I-94 safe. It proves refugee status and work authorisation [source, source].