WASHINGTON, DC — The Trump administration announced Thursday that it will limit refugee admissions to 7,500 people for the 2026 fiscal year — a historic low for the United States — with most arrivals expected to be white South Africans. The decision was published in the Federal Register without explanation, apart from a note saying it was “justified by humanitarian concerns or is otherwise in the national interest.”
The move marks a sharp decline from the 125,000 refugee ceiling set under President Joe Biden and continues the administration’s broader effort to scale back refugee admissions. The Associated Press previously reported that Trump officials were weighing a near-total reduction in admissions focused on white South African farmers, a population the administration claims faces discrimination and violence — a claim South Africa’s government denies.
The cuts have deeply affected refugee resettlement agencies nationwide, forcing many to downsize or close offices. Critics argue the policy undermines the country’s long-standing humanitarian commitments, while supporters frame it as prioritizing “deserving” groups and national security.
Trump had suspended the refugee program on his first day in office and has gradually reopened it with strict new criteria.
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