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Original Date Announced
November 21, 2025Reuters reports that it has reviewed an internal memo signed by USCIS Director Joe Edlow ordering review and re-interview of all refugees admitted from January 20, 2021 to February 20, 2025. The memo requires terminating the refugee status of anyone found not to meet "refugee criteria." It also states that "when appropriate," USCIS will also review and re-interview refugees admitted outside this timeframe.
In addition, USCIS will immediately stop processing all applications for lawful permanent residence from refugees admitted under the Biden administration, which it claims prioritized expediency, quantity, and admissions over detailed screening and vetting. There is a reference to EO 14163, which halted U.S. refugee resettlement
Trump 2.0 [ID #2092]
2025.11.24 Reported: Trump administration orders review of Biden-era refugees, memo shows - ReutersEffective Date
November 21, 2025Subsequent Trump and Court Action
November 24, 20252025.11.24 Priscilla Alvarez - X Post
Priscilla Alvarez of CNN writes that the memo "also orders a hold on pending applications for refugees to adjust their status in the US until the USCIS director determines otherwise. A year after refugees are admitted to the country, they are required under US law to apply for permanent status."
View DocumentCurrent Status
NoneOriginal Trump Policy Status
Status: ReportedTrump Administration Action: Agency DirectiveSubject Matter: RefugeesAgencies Affected: USCISAssociated or Derivative Policies
- January 20, 2025 EO 14163: "Realigning the United States Refugee Admissions Program"
- October 30, 2025 President Trump sets record-low refugee cap of 7,500 for fiscal year 2026
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