USRAP Security Checks and Fingerprinting: What South Africans Should Know
Security and background checks are central to USRAP processing. The U.S. Embassy South Africa USRAP FAQ explains that while a case is being processed, USRAP implementers conduct all necessary security and background checks. Applicants may be required to complete fingerprinting with Managed Integrity Evaluation, known as MIE, when contacted.
This is not a side issue. Security vetting can affect whether a case progresses, whether additional review is required, and whether a case status changes. The FAQ also confirms elsewhere that USCIS case review and security vetting are continuous until a refugee arrives in the United States.
Applicants should therefore understand that USRAP is not final simply because one step has been completed. A case can remain subject to review. New information, adjudication requirements or other factors may affect the case. Applicants should plan for long processing periods and possible status changes.
Fingerprinting should be completed only through official instructions. Applicants should be careful of anyone who claims to arrange unofficial security clearance, faster vetting, guaranteed approval or special access. The FAQ warns that applicants should not pay anyone who claims to expedite a case or guarantee approval.
Contact details are also important. The FAQ states that if an applicant changes address, email or phone number, RSC Africa should be notified immediately because this may affect processing. If a security or fingerprinting instruction is missed because the applicant changed contact details or stopped checking email, the case may be delayed or affected.
Applicants should also be careful with personal information. Security processing involves sensitive identity and background information. The FAQ warns applicants not to share personal information, including case numbers, with outside individuals or entities, especially through social media, chat groups, message boards or comments.
Where an applicant has a criminal history, immigration history, employment issue, prior refusal, security concern or inconsistent prior statement, the issue should not be ignored. Trying to hide difficult facts can create greater credibility problems later. USRAP is a process where security and background checks are expected. Applicants should be prepared to address relevant issues truthfully and carefully.
Families should also understand that security checks may affect timing. A person may hear that another applicant moved more quickly, but another family’s case may involve different background facts, identity issues, travel history, family composition or security-check timing. Comparisons are often misleading.