Refugee Health Program

Refugees in RI

What is the refugee resettlement process?

Refugees enter the United States at one of eighteen ports of entry. Refugees resettle in Rhode Island by joining family members or communities where voluntary resettlement agencies (VOLAGS) have sponsored them. There are two VOLAGS operating in Rhode Island—the Diocese of Providence and the International Institute of Rhode Island. VOLAGS deliver refugee reception and placement services as part of cooperative agreements with the US Department of State.

The Refugee Health Program receives notice of refugees who are cleared at one of the eighteen ports of entry. As part of the resettlement process, refugees must have a domestic health screening within 30 days of arrival in Rhode Island. Data from that screening is reported to the Refugee Health Program.