Johannesburg – about 70,000 South Africans – many with children – have registered interest in relocating to the United States as refugees.
The disgruntled white people registered their interest in response to President Donald Trump's executive order issued last month on February 7, 2025.
The US South African Chamber of Commerce (Sacca), which supports the initiative, has given it to the US embassy with information from the Pretoria Embassy about 67 042 South Africans “expressing interest” in the “resettlement opportunities” offered by President Trump.
Saccusa said it handed over the data to the US Embassy in Pretoria on Tuesday (March 18, 2025) and requested that “these South Africans will be prioritized and updated regularly with necessary information regarding the settlement process.”
Saccusa said it directed the US Embassy in South Africa to all inquiries regarding the executive order to ensure that all parties receive accurate and official guidance from appropriate US government authorities.
The embassy has activated a specific email address for this purpose.
US Embassy in South Africa – pretoriaprminfo@state.gov
Saccusa says this transition and handover will allow us to focus on its central mission, ensuring that the public receives guidance directly from US government officials.
Sacca said it will continue to update South Africans through its newsletter.
Sacca said the “effort” is working with its mission to serve the South African business community and the diaspora with its non-political capabilities, whilst promoting bilateral trade, investment and tourism between South Africa and the United States.
Sacca said she remains immobilized in her support of the Trump administration's efforts to resettle South Africans, with a desire to move to the US.
“As a vibrant and resilient community, the US South African diaspora looks forward to welcoming and supporting new arrivals, particularly the status of licensed refugees,” Sacca said.
“Despite current developments, Sacca is committed to promoting constructive engagement between the US and South Africa by utilizing economic and cultural diplomacy.
“These initiatives are important to maintain resilient trade relations and ensure the well-being of South Africans looking to build new lives in the United States.”
Saccusa can send a question to the US Embassy's designated communications channel for more information about the resettlement process and other inquiries.
Saccusa added that it would encourage all stakeholders to use this official resource for guidance.
