Refugee Termination Notice Deadline Now 10 Days

TITLE: Refugee Termination Notice Deadline Now 10 Days

WHAT HAPPENED: Starting October 14, 2026, DHS changed the rule. If DHS decides you did not qualify as a refugee when you arrived in the U.S., it can send you a Notice of Intent to Terminate (NOIT) — a letter that says DHS plans to end your refugee status. The time to respond is now 10 days, down from 30 days.

WHO IT AFFECTS: People admitted to the U.S. as refugees who receive a NOIT saying DHS believes they did not meet the refugee requirement at the time they were admitted.

WHAT TO DO NOW: If you receive a NOIT, do not ignore it. Read it right away. Respond within 10 days. Contact an immigration lawyer or accredited representative immediately.

SOURCE: https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2026/10/14/2026-20956/removing-30-day-refugee-termination-notice

DISCLAIMER: General info from Homeland Security Department, not legal advice — check with an immigration attorney. English is authoritative.