(U.S.) U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has officially ended its informal “pause” on Green Card interviews for asylees and refugees as of August 6, 2025. The agency now requires interviews in more cases, aiming to strengthen program integrity, detect fraud, and improve national security checks. This change follows a new USCIS memo and policy manual update in late July and early August 2025, which clarifies exactly when interviews are needed during the Green Card process for asylees and refugees.
What Changed and Why Now?
For several years, many asylees and refugees applying for Green Cards did not have to attend interviews. This “pause” was never formally announced but was widely noticed by immigration lawyers and applicants. Now, USCIS has made it clear: interviews are back, and the rules are stricter. The updated policy aligns with Executive Order 14161, which focuses on protecting the United States 🇺🇸 from foreign terrorists and other threats.
According to the new memo, USCIS officers must follow clear criteria to decide when Green Card interviews are required for asylees and refugees. The agency says this will help keep the immigration system safe and fair.
When Are Green Card Interviews Required for Asylees and Refugees?
USCIS officers now look at several factors to decide if an interview is needed. Interviews are generally required if:
- **The applicant’s identity cannot be confirmed** using existing records, or there are new or conflicting identity claims.
- **The applicant received asylum as a dependent** (for example, as a spouse or child on Form I-730) but was never interviewed before.
- **There are concerns about criminal history, national security, or public safety.**
- **There is suspicion of fraud or misrepresentation** in the asylum process.
- **The relationship that gave the person derivative asylee status has ended or changed.**
- **FBI fingerprint checks show records or unclear results** that raise questions about admissibility.
- **There are unresolved or conflicting issues** about identity, admissibility, or national security.
- **USCIS needs a sworn statement or more information** to answer Requests for Evidence (RFEs) or other concerns.
If any of these apply, the applicant should expect to be called for a Green Card interview.
What Does This Mean for Asylees and Refugees?
For many asylees and refugees, this policy means a higher chance of being asked to attend an interview before getting a Green Card. The interview is a chance for USCIS to:
- **Verify the applicant’s identity**
- **Check for any criminal or security issues**
- **Look for signs of fraud or misrepresentation**
- **Confirm eligibility for permanent residence**
This process may make the wait for a Green Card longer for some people. Those who received asylum as dependents, especially if they never had an interview before, are now more likely to be called in. The policy is designed to balance the need for security with the rights of people who have fled danger and are seeking a new life in the United States 🇺🇸.
Background: How Did We Get Here?
The informal “pause” on Green Card interviews for asylees and refugees began in the late 2010s and early 2020s. While USCIS never officially announced this change, many noticed that interviews became rare. This shift was linked to policies during President Trump’s administration, which took a tougher approach to humanitarian immigration.
When President Biden took office, his administration aimed to restore and clarify immigration procedures. However, there was also a renewed focus on security checks, especially after Executive Order 14161. The August 2025 memo is the latest step in this ongoing process, making interview rules more clear and consistent.
Step-by-Step: How Asylees Apply for a Green Card
For asylees, the process to get a Green Card (also called “adjustment of status”) involves several steps:
- ✅ Wait at least one year after being granted asylum and living in the United States 🇺🇸.
- ✅ File Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status. You can find the official form and instructions on the USCIS Form I-485 page.
- ✅ USCIS reviews your application and documents.
- ✅ USCIS decides if you need an interview based on the updated criteria.
- ✅ If an interview is scheduled, you’ll get a notice with the date, time, and location.
- ✅ At the interview, a USCIS officer will:
- Check your identity and documents
- Ask questions about your eligibility
- Address any concerns about your background or the information you provided
- ✅ After the interview, USCIS makes a final decision.
- ✅ If approved, you become a lawful permanent resident and receive your Green Card.
What Do Officials and Experts Say?
USCIS spokesman Matthew Tragesser said the agency is “returning to the toughest and most secure enhanced screening and vetting policies” for asylum and refugee processes. He stressed that the main goal is to keep Americans safe and protect the integrity of the immigration system.
Immigration experts agree that while these changes may mean more scrutiny and longer processing times, they also help prevent fraud and protect national security. As reported by VisaVerge.com, the new policy aims to strike a balance between thorough vetting and fairness for people seeking safety in the United States 🇺🇸.
What Should Asylees and Refugees Do Now?
If you are an asylee or refugee planning to apply for a Green Card, here are some practical steps:
- 📋 Prepare for the possibility of an interview. Gather all documents that prove your identity, asylum status, and eligibility.
- 📋 Be ready to answer questions about your background, your asylum case, and any changes in your situation.
- 📋 If you were granted asylum as a dependent (for example, through Form I-730), expect a higher chance of being called for an interview.
- 📋 Respond quickly to any Requests for Evidence (RFEs) or interview notices from USCIS.
- 📋 Consider getting legal advice if you have concerns about your case or background.
Where to Find More Information
USCIS provides helpful resources for asylees and refugees:
- USCIS Policy Manual, Volume 7, Part M, Chapter 5 – Details on Green Card interviews and adjustment procedures
- USCIS Green Card for Asylees page – Step-by-step guide for asylees
- USCIS News Release on Screening and Vetting Standards – Official announcement about the new policy
- USCIS Contact Center or call 1-800-375-5283 for case-specific questions
Looking Ahead: What’s Next for Green Card Interviews?
USCIS may continue to adjust interview rules as security needs and agency resources change. Many expect that more interviews will mean longer wait times for Green Card decisions, especially for asylees and refugees. Advocacy groups are watching closely to make sure the process stays fair and transparent.
Some worry that longer waits could make life harder for people who have already faced danger and hardship. Others say the extra checks are needed to keep the United States 🇺🇸 safe. USCIS says it will keep working to balance these concerns.
Key Takeaways for Asylees and Refugees
- **Green Card interviews are now more likely** for asylees and refugees, especially if there are questions about identity, background, or eligibility.
- **The process may take longer** for some applicants, but the goal is to protect both the immigration system and national security.
- **Be prepared, stay informed, and respond quickly** to any USCIS requests or interview notices.
- **Use official USCIS resources** for the latest information and guidance.
For more details on the updated interview policy and adjustment process, visit the USCIS Policy Manual.
By understanding these changes and preparing for possible interviews, asylees and refugees can better manage their Green Card applications and move forward with their lives in the United States 🇺🇸.
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