Even green card holders are at risk: the US will review the status of all refugees

The United States is preparing a large-scale review of refugee cases, which may even affect those who have long since obtained a green card and built a life in the country. The Trump administration's new policy completely changes the rules of the game and causes concern for thousands of families. Find out who will be affected by the checks and what the possible consequences are

Legal counselling on migration issues

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The United States is preparing for an unprecedented review — tens of thousands of people who have been granted refugee status and even green cards in recent years will be subject to review. Donald Trump's administration has announced its intention to conduct new interviews and a complete reassessment of all those whose cases were approved during Joe Biden's presidency, according to NBC News. For many families, this means the risk of losing their status — without the right to appeal.

Refugees in the US: status review

According to internal documents, immigration authorities are planning a large-scale audit of more than 200,000 people who have been granted asylum or residence permits under refugee programmes between January 2021 and February 2025. This applies not only to those who are still in the process — current green card holders will also be subject to review. This could be the largest review of refugee cases in modern US history.

Everyone who received refugee status during this period will be reviewed, as well as their family members who reside in the United States on the basis of the same case. Those who have already received a green card are also at risk, even years after their initial interview.

The main thing is that if, after reconsideration, the applicant is no longer considered to meet the definition of ‘refugee,’ the decision will be final. It cannot be appealed, and the entire family may lose their status.

Why are such checks being introduced?

The administration claims that the reform is necessary to regain control over the immigration system. According to DHS officials, in previous years, the number of accepted applicants grew faster than the capacity for in-depth screening, which allegedly reduced the quality of selection. Trump also signed an executive order temporarily suspending the admission of new refugees until the programme is reviewed, with a focus on public safety and the adaptation of applicants.

Starting in fiscal year 2026, the quota for accepting new refugees will be reduced to 7,500 people — significantly less than under previous administrations. Priority will be given to groups that the US considers most vulnerable to discrimination.

What threatens those already living in the US

If the review shows that the case was approved prematurely or incompletely, refugee status and the green card based on it may be revoked. This means the loss of legal status not only for the applicant, but for the entire family. Without other grounds for residence, a person may face the risk of deportation, and there is no provision for appeal.

Legal assistance with migration issues for Ukrainians

The Visit Ukraine team of lawyers helps Ukrainians deal with all migration issues. Our specialists provide:

● advice on temporary protection, residence permits, and other statuses for legalization abroad;

● assistance with the preparation of necessary documents in Ukraine and abroad;

● assistance in choosing a country to move to depending on your budget and legalization plans, support in finding a job and enrolling in foreign universities;

● services for obtaining visas and permits for long-term stays abroad.

Contact Visit Ukraine lawyers to get an individual migration strategy without the risk of fines or loss of status.

Reminder! Ukrainians have begun to be deported from the United States: the first 50 citizens have already returned through the Shehyni checkpoint, and Donald Trump's administration is preparing new groups for deportation. The situation is causing concern due to the possible tightening of migration policy towards Ukrainians. Find out who is affected by the deportation decisions, the reasons for expulsion, and whether this poses a threat to other Ukrainian citizens.

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