The US reviews the status of all refugees: green card will not help

The administration of Donald Trump has initiated a large-scale review of all refugees accepted into the US during Joe Biden's presidency. The review also applies to green card holders who have gone through the full vetting process and have already settled in the country. NBC News reports this.

According to NBC News, the decision affects over 200,000 people.

Review of Refugee Status

The memorandum states that there will be repeated interviews and a 'comprehensive review' of all refugees accepted between January 20, 2021, and February 20, 2025. The basis cited is alleged violations of vetting standards during Biden's time.

• The review will even cover those who have already received a green card.
• Individuals who do not reaffirm their 'refugee' status a second time will have no right to appeal.
• In case of denial, family members will also automatically lose their immigration status.

Public Reaction and Context

Human rights defenders have called the decision unprecedented. Sean Vandiver, founder of the #AfghanEvac coalition, stated that refugees underwent one of the toughest vetting systems in the world—from biometrics to multi-level security checks. He described the administration's actions as 'cruel', especially considering the time when families should be peacefully celebrating Thanksgiving.

This is not Trump's first move towards a radical review of immigration policy: on his first day in office, he already halted the Refugee Admission Program, citing the need to strengthen national security.

Previously, we reported that about 300,000 Ukrainians currently in the US under temporary protection status due to the events of 2022 will lose access to food assistance under the SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) starting November 1.