The U.S. government has just rolled out a significant review of asylum cases that were granted during Joe Biden’s presidency. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has stated that this move follows a troubling security incident — a shooting in Washington, D.C., involving someone seeking asylum.
This review essentially puts the immigration status of numerous refugees and asylum-seekers back under the microscope. Consequently, the U.S. has also decided to pause all new immigration applications from Afghan nationals for the time being.
If you’re an immigrant or an asylum-seeker in the U.S., or if you’re considering applying, now is the moment to stay alert. This shift in policy could impact cases that were previously approved.
What Changed: Scope & Scale of the Review
The review is quite extensive. The agencies in charge of this process — including DHS and U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) — have announced that they will be taking a closer look at all asylum approvals granted during the Biden administration. This means they’ll be reviewing asylum grants made from around January 2021 to February 2025.
But it’s not just asylum approvals that are under scrutiny. The government has also revealed plans for a “full-scale, rigorous reexamination” of all Green Cards issued to immigrants from a list of “countries of concern.”
These moves indicate a significant shift in U.S. immigration policy, creating a much more cautious and uncertain atmosphere for many immigrants, particularly those coming from high-risk or previously restricted nations.
Why the Review Was Triggered
The review was sparked by a heartbreaking shooting in Washington, D.C., where two National Guard members were seriously injured. Reports indicate that the suspect was an Afghan national who had previously been granted asylum.
In response to this incident, the Department of Homeland Security decided to pause immigration processing for Afghan nationals “indefinitely,” while they conduct a thorough review of security and vetting protocols.
Given the seriousness of the situation and the potential risks to national security, the new administration opted to expand the review to encompass all asylum cases that were approved during the previous administration. This decision has significant implications for refugees and immigrants from various backgrounds.
Who Might Be Affected
Refugees and asylum-seekers whose applications were approved between 2021 and 2025 during the previous administration. Based on the data we have, this could involve around 233,000 people.Green-card holders from nations labeled as “countries of concern” — especially those who were previously affected by travel bans or faced more intense vetting processes.Asylum-seekers or immigrants who came through resettlement or refugee-admission programs might find their status and documentation reassessed under tougher standards.
If you fall into either of these categories, this isn’t just a minor policy change — it could seriously affect your legal standing.
What This Means — Increased Uncertainty & Risk
Previous asylum approvals might be re-evaluated. What used to be a secure, approved status is now up in the air.Green-card holders from certain countries could find themselves facing renewed scrutiny, or even the risk of losing their status if they get flagged.Ongoing immigration applications and status changes—like applying for residency or family reunification—might experience delays or even be put on hold. Immigrants could be asked to go through interviews again, submit more paperwork, or comply with tougher background-check standards than they did before.
In this situation, even those who have been settled for a long time could end up in a confusing legal limbo.
Why Legal Expertise Is More Critical Than Ever
Navigating U.S. immigration law has become increasingly complex, especially given the scale and implications of this review. The chances of making mistakes have risen significantly, particularly when it comes to paperwork, documentation, or any prior vetting that might be scrutinized again.
If you’re an immigrant impacted by this policy change, it’s crucial to seek experienced legal guidance now more than ever. Even small administrative errors or oversights could lead to serious consequences, including the potential denial of a status that was previously approved.
What You Should Do If You’re Affected — Don’t Wait
If you’ve had your asylum approved under the Biden administration or you hold a green card from a country that’s considered “of concern,” here’s what you need to do
First, take a good look at all your immigration documents. Make sure everything — from past asylum approval letters to your green card and refugee admission papers — is neatly organized and easy to find.Be ready to provide more information or even go through a re-interview if USCIS or DHS asks for it.Keep in mind that there could be delays, suspensions, or even revocations, so it’s best to be proactive instead of waiting for a notification.
And most importantly, seek out professional legal advice. Immigration laws can be tricky and harsh, especially during times of policy changes.
Discover how Orange Law can assist you with your immigration concerns. Reach out to us today!
If you’re feeling anxious about how these changes could impact your status, or if you need assistance getting your documents and responses ready for a possible re-evaluation, reach out to Orange Law today. Our dedicated team specializes in U.S. immigration law and is here to help you review your case, prepare for any upcoming interviews, and navigate your legal options. With immigration policies shifting rapidly, having expert guidance can truly make a difference.
Don’t hesitate — take action now to safeguard your rights and immigration status.
Final Thoughts — A New Era of Immigration Scrutiny
The recent decision by DHS to reassess all asylum cases that were approved under the previous administration marks a significant change in U.S. immigration policy. What many people thought was a secure status might now face a new round of scrutiny.
If you’re an immigrant who arrived in the U.S. during this time, your legal future could be in limbo. That’s why it’s crucial to stay informed, organized, and legally prepared.
At Orange Law, we recognize how complex and sensitive immigration matters can be. If you need assistance—whether it’s about protecting your status, understanding your rights, or dealing with a potential review—reach out to us today for help with your immigration concerns.
Let us guide you through these uncertain times with confidence and care.
