WASHINGTON – A U.S. federal appeals court has ruled that the Trump administration can temporarily pause refugee resettlement programs while a legal case over the freeze is still ongoing.
The decision came from a three-judge panel of the 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals, which stated that refugees who were conditionally approved for entry before January 20, 2025, will still be allowed to enter the United States during this pause.
Why the Refugee Program Was Paused
President Donald Trump, who took office on January 20, quickly moved to pause refugee resettlement efforts, stating that the system needs to ensure that incoming refugees can “appropriately assimilate” into American society and that taxpayer money is not wasted.
Trump directed the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and the State Department to review the refugee program and submit a detailed report within 90 days. This report would determine whether the program should continue, be adjusted, or remain paused.
Legal Challenges and Court Rulings
In late February, a federal judge based in Seattle temporarily blocked the freeze, allowing some aspects of the refugee program to continue.
Then on Monday, the same judge ordered the Trump administration to stop terminating contracts with local organizations that help resettle refugees. The judge also asked the government to restore previously cancelled agreements with these groups.
These resettlement organizations provide critical support to incoming refugees, including housing, job search assistance, and other essential services to help them adjust to life in the United States.
Background on Refugee Admissions Under Biden
Former President Joe Biden, a Democrat, had taken steps to expand refugee admissions during his four-year term. In fiscal year 2024, his administration accepted 100,000 refugees into the U.S.
In fact, according to a senior Biden administration official, another 100,000 refugees had already been fully vetted and approved to travel to the U.S. as of mid-January 2025, just before Trump returned to office.
What Happens Next?
The legal fight is still ongoing, and while the Trump administration has the court’s permission to pause resettlement temporarily, the situation could change based on upcoming rulings.
The court’s decision to exempt refugees already approved by January 20 provides some relief to those who were already close to starting their new lives in America.