The Department of Homeland Security has expanded federal authority to detain certain legal refugees who have not secured green cards within one year of entering the United States, according to a newly disclosed DHS memo.
Under the policy, immigration officers may arrest and detain refugees whose lawful permanent resident status remains unresolved after one year.
DHS says refugee admission is conditional and subject to mandatory review, allowing detention during additional screening.
Trump administration expands ICE’s ability to detain legal refugees in latest memohttps://t.co/YoBtIBOAht
— MSN (@MSN) February 19, 2026
The memo rescinds earlier guidance that barred detention solely for delays in green card processing and required quick release or formal removal proceedings. DHS officials argue the previous policy left gaps in national security and public safety vetting.
Refugee advocacy groups criticized the move, calling it a sharp departure from long-standing practice. The policy is already being challenged in federal court in Minnesota, where a judge has temporarily blocked enforcement affecting thousands of refugees awaiting green cards.
President Donald Trump has sharply limited refugee admissions during his second term, citing border security and national safety concerns.
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TIPP Staff
TIPP Staff
