Trump Orders Review of Biden-Era Refugees, Halts Green Card Processing

In a recent directive, the Trump administration has mandated a comprehensive review of refugees admitted under former President Joe Biden. This decision signals a significant shift in U.S. immigration policy, focusing on identifying potential disqualifications for these individuals.

Key Details of the Review

An internal memo, issued by Joseph Edlow, Director of U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), outlines the approach. Dated November 21, it instructs officials to investigate cases of refugees who entered the U.S. from January 20, 2021, through February 20, 2025. This spans a crucial period of the Biden administration’s refugee policy.

Objectives of the Investigation

• Assess whether admitted refugees met the necessary definitions upon entry.
• Identify any legal barriers preventing them from becoming permanent residents.
• Reinterview refugees if necessary to ensure compliance with U.S. laws.

In addition to the review, the memo places an indefinite hold on all pending green card applications filed during this period. According to U.S. law, refugees can apply for permanent residency one year after their admission.

Consequences of Denials

Edlow noted that refugees whose principal cases are denied will also lead to the rejection of applications from their family members. Consequently, these individuals could face deportation proceedings. Refugees must demonstrate that they fled persecution based on specific criteria, including race, nationality, and political opinion.

Statistics on Refugee Admissions

Approximately 233,000 refugees entered the U.S. between February 2021 and January 2025, aligning closely with Biden’s administration. This period saw the U.S. refugee program briefly pause following Trump’s return to office.

Refugee Admission Caps

• Current fiscal year cap: 7,500 refugees, the lowest in history.
• Allocation prioritization: Afrikaners and other victims of discrimination.

The South African government has contested claims of persecution against Afrikaners. Under the Trump administration, a focus has been placed on the quality of interviews and screenings compared to what was perceived as a rushed process under Biden’s leadership.

This evolving landscape of U.S. immigration policy reflects broader tensions and debates regarding refugee admissions, safety, and humanitarian obligations.