DHS Directs Detention of Refugees Without Green Cards

Citing national security concerns, the Department of Homeland Security is ordering federal immigration authorities to detain refugees who have not yet obtained permanent residency.

Published on Feb. 27, 2026

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According to a Department of Homeland Security memo obtained by CNN, the agency is directing federal immigration authorities to detain refugees who have not yet obtained green cards, citing national security concerns and the need for additional screening.

Why it matters

This policy shift represents a hardline stance on immigration, particularly toward refugees who have not completed the full process of obtaining permanent residency in the United States. It raises concerns about the treatment of vulnerable populations seeking refuge and the balance between national security and humanitarian considerations.

The details

The DHS memo instructs federal immigration agencies to detain refugees who have not yet obtained green cards, even if they have been granted asylum or other temporary legal status. The department cites national security concerns and the need for additional screening as the rationale behind this directive.

  • The DHS memo was obtained by CNN on February 19, 2026.

The players

Department of Homeland Security (DHS)

The federal agency responsible for protecting the United States from terrorism and managing immigration enforcement.

Priscilla Alvarez

A CNN reporter who covered the story and obtained the DHS memo.

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What they’re saying

“DHS is directing federal immigration authorities to detain refugees who have not yet obtained green cards, citing national security concerns and additional screening.”

— Priscilla Alvarez, CNN Reporter (CNN)

The takeaway

This policy shift by the Department of Homeland Security raises concerns about the treatment of vulnerable refugee populations and the balance between national security and humanitarian considerations in the immigration system.