
Biden administration granted nearly 7,000 exemptions to foreign nationals with terrorism-related restrictions in 2024, sparking security concerns.
At a Glance
- 6,848 exemptions granted in FY 2024, mostly to refugees.
- Significant increase from previous years’ exemptions.
- Afghan evacuees and allies among those receiving waivers.
- Republicans criticize potential security risks.
- DHS emphasizes rigorous vetting process for all applicants.
Surge in Exemptions for Foreign Nationals
The Biden administration significantly increased the number of exemptions granted to foreign nationals who would otherwise be ineligible for U.S. admission due to terrorism-related restrictions. In fiscal year 2024, nearly 7,000 individuals, predominantly refugees, were granted entry despite prior restrictions. This marks a substantial rise from previous years, with 6,848 total exemptions compared to 2,085 in FY 2023 and just 361 in FY 2020.
The surge in exemptions aligns with the administration’s broader immigration policies, including an increase in the refugee cap to 125,000, up from 18,000 during the Trump administration. Of the total exemptions, 6,653 were granted to refugees, while others were extended to asylum applicants, green card holders, and Temporary Protected Status applicants.
SCOOP: The Biden administration exempted more than 6,800 immigrants from terrorism-related inadmissibility grounds (TRIG) in FY 2024 — a significantly higher number than in recent years.https://t.co/PoOHvkS6EC
— Adam Shaw (@AdamShawNY) January 14, 2025
Exemptions for Afghan Allies and Evacuees
A significant portion of the exemptions were granted to Afghan evacuees and allies following the 2021 Taliban takeover. These included 29 waivers for Afghan allies, 374 for civil servants, and 3,134 for those who provided limited support to terror organizations. Additionally, 2,946 exemptions were given under a 2007 authority for support provided under duress.
“These exemptions will allow eligible individuals who pose no national security or public safety risk to receive asylum, refugee status, or other legal immigration status, demonstrating the United States’ continued commitment to our Afghan allies and their family members.” – DHS Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) emphasizes that a rigorous security vetting process is in place for all applicants considered for exemptions. This process aims to ensure that only individuals who do not pose a threat to national security are granted entry.
Republican Criticism and Security Concerns
The increase in exemptions has drawn criticism from Republican lawmakers and immigration hawks. They argue that expanding immigration pathways could potentially increase terrorism risks. Critics point to the broad definition of terrorism-related activity as a source of concern, noting that exemptions are not limited to specific conflicts or regions.
“Joe Biden and his administration have viciously targeted parents at school board meetings, pro-life Americans, Catholics, and Trump supporters—designating some as ‘domestic terrorists’—instead of catching actual terrorists and keeping them out of the country.” – Michael Bars
The controversy surrounding these exemptions comes as the Biden administration faces ongoing challenges at the southern border and criticism over its broader immigration policies. While supporters of the exemptions view them as fulfilling commitments to allies and those in need, opponents express concern over potential security vulnerabilities.
Looking Ahead
As the debate over immigration and national security continues, the Biden administration’s approach to exemptions for foreign nationals with terrorism-related restrictions remains a contentious issue. The significant increase in waivers granted in FY 2024 suggests a shift in policy that is likely to face ongoing scrutiny from both supporters and critics alike. The administration’s challenge will be to balance humanitarian concerns with the imperative of maintaining national security, all while navigating a politically charged landscape.
Sources:
- Biden DHS exempted thousands of immigrants from terror-related entry restrictions in FY 2024
- Terrorism-Related Inadmissibility Grounds (TRIG)