DHS cuts response period for refugee-status notices from 30 to 10 days

The U.S. Department of Homeland Security will reduce from 30 to 10 days the period for responding to a notice of intent to terminate refugee status. The interim final rule changes the procedure for people formally admitted as refugees who have not yet adjusted to permanent resident status.

After receiving notice, the person may submit written evidence or request an oral interview. The period is ten calendar days, including weekends and holidays. If notice arrives by mail, three days are added. The measure takes effect October 14, its scheduled publication date in the Federal Register.

The rule applies to principal refugees admitted through the U.S. Refugee Admissions Program. It does not include people with humanitarian parole, asylum, Form I-220A, permanent residence or citizenship. If the recipient does not respond by the deadline, USCIS may terminate the status; the rule provides no administrative appeal from that decision.

Termination may also affect a spouse and children under 21 included as derivatives. DHS estimates that as many as 186,000 people admitted between fiscal years 2015 and 2025 who have not adjusted status could be subject to the measure. The document also opens a 30-day public comment period beginning on the effective date.