Operation Allies Welcome
In August 2021, US President Joe Biden directed the Department of Homeland Security to implement efforts to help the vulnerable Afghans including those who helped the US for the past two decades. These efforts are to help them safely settle in the US. These efforts are collectively called Operation Allies Welcome.
About Operation Allies Welcome
A Unified Coordination Group was established. The group worked directly under the Secretary of Homeland Security. The group implemented broad range of services such as isolation of COVID-19 positive individuals, COVID-19 testing, vaccinations, supporting individuals who are neither US citizens nor lawful permanent residents.
Screening prior to arrival in the US
Around 400 personnel were deployed in the operation. The arriving individuals were screened through rigorous multi-layered processes such as biometric and biographic screening. This included professionals from FBI and counter terrorism professionals. Also, the photos, fingerprints were reviewed.
Humanitarian Parole
The Afghan nationals entering the US were paroled into the US on case-by-case basis. Such Afghan nationals have to receive critical vaccinations, medical screening. Failing to fulfil these conditions leads to denial of work authorization. The Afghan parole shall apply for immigration benefits through US Citizenship and Immigration Services.
Immigrant Visas
The Afghan nationals who have successfully completed the Special Immigrant Visa process were admitted as lawful residents. Their dependents were also permitted as lawful residents. They are eligible to apply for work authorization as well.
Vaccinations
The Afghan nationals being paroled into the US have to complete vaccinations such as polio, MMR, varicella and COVID-19. These vaccinations and other medical testing were provided free of cost.
Resettlement
The arriving Afghan nationals are connected to resettlement agencies. The individuals are accommodated through Afghan Placement and Assistance Programme. During the resettlement process, the Afghan nationals are informed about conditions of their parole, details about US laws, etc.
