USCIS to re-interview Biden-era refugees
A memo obtained by the AP shows USCIS will conduct a comprehensive review and re-interview of all refugees admitted from Jan. 20, 2021 to Feb. 20, 2025, and has immediately suspended green card approvals for those refugees. The nationwide action, signed Nov. 21 by USCIS Director Joseph Edlow, cites concerns that 'expediency' was prioritized over vetting under Biden; advocates warn the move will traumatize refugees, including many living in the Twin Cities.
📌 Key Facts
- USCIS memo dated Nov. 21, 2025 orders re-interviews for refugees admitted Jan. 20, 2021–Feb. 20, 2025
- Immediate suspension of green card approvals for refugees admitted in that period
- Biden-era admissions totaled 185,640 (Oct. 2021–Sept. 2024), with largest numbers from DRC, Afghanistan, Venezuela, and Syria