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Updated Memo on Terrorist-Related Inadmissibility Grounds

posted Dec 11, 2011 3:27 PM by Shifa Soressa   [ updated Jan 10, 2012 12:09 PM ]

On November 20, 2011, the USCIS issued an updated policy memorandum on terrorist-related inadmissibility grounds. The new memo, entitled “Revised Guidance on the Adjudication of Cases Involving Terrorism-Related Inadmissibility Grounds (TRIG) and Further Amendment to the Hold Policy for Such Cases,” changes the USCIS’ hitherto policy on the adjudication of cases relating to terrorist-related inadmissibility grounds under INA § 212(a)(3)(B). Prior to this memo, USCIS adjudicators were required to place on hold (pending further instructions) cases involving applicants who provided material support to a terrorist organization or member of a terrorist organization. The new memo changes that and instructs adjudicators to deny cases that were put on hold for terrorism-related inadmissibility grounds with the exception of those who provided medical care to terrorist organizations or members thereof and the children and spouses of those who provided material support.