The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has issued a new memorandum that significantly alters the rules governing refugees in the United States. Effective February 18, 2026, individuals who have been legally admitted as refugees, including many from Afghanistan and Ukraine, will now have their admission deemed “conditional” after one year. To maintain their status, they must file for adjustment to permanent residency using Form I-485. Failure to do so may result in detention by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).
Key Details:
- New rules effective: February 18, 2026
- Refugees must adjust status to permanent residency within one year
- Failure to file Form I-485 could lead to ICE detentions
- Cost of Form I-485: approximately $1,440, plus additional fees for biometrics and medical exams
This policy change revokes previous guidelines that prevented detentions solely due to delays in the adjustment process, placing many refugee families in precarious situations. Affected individuals are urged to seek legal counsel immediately to navigate these new requirements.
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Source: @YaderMorazan