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Frequently Asked Questions
Documentation
Are refugees authorized to work in the U.S.?
Refugees are fully authorized by the U.S. Department of Justice to begin working immediately after they arrive in the U.S. For more detailed information on the refugee resettlement screening process visit the U.S. Office of Refugee Resettlement’s website.
Background Information
What kinds of skills do refugees bring with them to the U.S.?
Most refugees arrive with many years of work experience, giving American companies access to well-trained workers who are committed to long-term employment. Some have professional training or experience in small business from their home country and almost all have skills that are transferable to a variety of work settings including healthcare, manufacturing, hospitality, and construction.
How can I hire a refugee if he doesn’t speak English?
Many refugees speak English when they arrive in the United States while others begin taking English classes soon after arrival. It is not uncommon to meet a refugee who speaks several languages while he is also learning English – clearly demonstrating most refugees’ capacity to acquire new languages.
How can my company accommodate covered headpieces and loose clothing that some refugees wear to maintain their cultural or religious traditions while still maintaining proper safety standards?
There are several ways to approach this common concern. The most useful strategy for women who wear a hijab, the traditional covering for women from a Muslim background, is to ask them to wear a hijab that goes to shoulder level and sleeves that are fitted around the wrist. In most cases, refugees are open to adapting to the standards of a certain company when there is open communication about their culture, beliefs and how best to fit into the American workplace.
Training and Support Services
What can my company gain from hiring refugees?
One of the largest assets that employers can tap into when hiring refugees is the free support services offered by the local refugee employment agency. These services include screening and assessment prior to an application, one-on-one job coaching, interview practice, interpretation and perhaps most importantly, follow-up at 30, 60, and 90 days after employment. Companies often express that the follow-up support increases retention and saves them money by reducing the turnover rate.
I have heard about tax benefits for companies that hire refugees, how does that work?
Your company may be eligible for the Work Opportunity Tax Credit or the Welfare to Work tax credit. It is a tax program that provides a federal tax credit incentive of up to $8,500 for employers who hire individuals who qualify as members of certain target groups which often includes refugees. For more information about the Work Opportunity Tax Credit, visit the U.S. Department of Labor Employment & Training Administration website.
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HIRE A REFUGEE TODAY
To hire a refugee, contact a local refugee employment program near your facility. There are refugee employment programs in almost every major metropolitan area as well as a number of smaller communities across the United States. See our listing of local refugee employment agencies to find a program in your area and begin adding more qualified, committed workers to your company.
Alternatively, contact RefugeeWorks directly and we will help you connect with a refugee program in your area. Email us at information@refugeeworks.org
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