Trump Administration Launches Comprehensive Review of 200,000 Biden-Era Refugees

Migrants queue at Our Lady of Solitude church seeking shelter while they wait.

The Trump administration has initiated a comprehensive vetting review of all refugees admitted during former President Joe Biden's tenure, according to an internal US government memorandum obtained by Reuters.

This extensive review will affect approximately 200,000 refugees who entered the United States between January 20, 2021 and February 20, 2025, as outlined in the document signed by US Citizenship and Immigration Services Director Joe Edlow. Additionally, the directive suspends all processing of permanent residence applications for refugees admitted during the Biden administration.

When contacted, USCIS did not provide an immediate response to requests for comment.

Upon taking office in January, President Trump, a Republican, implemented a freeze on refugee admissions worldwide as part of his extensive immigration policy overhaul targeting both legal and illegal entry. This strict approach marks a significant departure from the more welcoming policies of his Democratic predecessor, Joe Biden, whose administration admitted over 100,000 refugees during fiscal year 2024.

The USCIS memorandum, dated November 21, indicates that the agency will revoke refugee status for individuals currently in the United States if they are determined not to meet refugee criteria. The document alleges that the Biden administration potentially prioritized speed, numbers, and admissions over thorough interviews and comprehensive screening processes.

"Due to these concerns, USCIS has determined that a comprehensive review and re-interview of all refugees admitted from January 20, 2021, to February 20, 2025, is necessary," the memorandum stated. "When appropriate, USCIS will also review and re-interview refugees admitted outside this timeframe."