Update on Operation PARRIS and Citizenship
February 13, 2026 ─ There have been new updates on Operation PARRIS that we want to share with the community.
Temporary restraining order
A federal judges has issued a temporary restraining order through February 25, blocking immigration agents from detaining refugees in Minnesota.
All refugees have legal status to be in our state and country and many of those detained are in process of obtaining Green Cards.
In the order, U.S. District Judge John Tunheim said, “Refugees have a legal right to be in the United States, a right to work, a right to live peacefully—and importantly, a right not to be subjected to the terror of being arrested and detained without warrants or cause in their homes or on their way to religious services or to buy groceries.”
While this temporary restraining order is a small victory, we are concerned about refugees who are not aware of this temporary restraining order or are currently detained.
If you know someone who is still in detention, please contact our immigration intake line at (651) 377-8642 and leave a voicemail message and we will return your call.
Call-in letters (form G-56)
Institute clients who have applied for green cards have received call-in letters, known as Form G-56, from the Department of Homeland Security asking them to come to their office for a “PARRIS Interview” or a “Post‑Admission Refugee Reverification and I‑485 Interview.”
Green applications may be denied if interviews are not attended.
If someone receives this letter, it is important to:
- Keep the letter and seek guidance from an immigration attorney
- Prep documents needed for the appointment
- Not miss the appointment
- Not go alone to the appointment
If you or someone you know someone has received this “PARRIS Interview” letter please contact our immigration intake line at (651) 377-8642 and leave a voicemail message and we will return your call.
What should refugees do to protect themselves?
We understand that many in the community feel anxious about applying for important immigration benefits in the current political climate. However, getting permanent residency or U.S. citizenship remains one of the strongest ways to protect you and your family. If you qualify, it is imperative to take steps to apply.
Delaying these services limits important opportunities for New Americans such as employment, education, legal protection, and family reunification.
In this process, it is important to seek trusted legal help. What does trusted legal help mean?
- Licensed immigration attorneys
- Accredited representatives
- Trusted nonprofit organizations and legal aid groups
What you should avoid:
- “Notarios” (not lawyers in the U.S.)
- Anyone guaranteeing results, refusing paperwork or receipts, or pressuring you to sign or pay quickly
At the International Institute of Minnesota, we are here to help you and guide you in this process. The Institute provides low-cost immigration legal help to refugees and immigrants. Each year, the Institute assists over 2,000 immigrants, refugees, and asylees with citizenship and immigration services.
We can help in answering questions on:
- What you may be eligible for
- Learn the steps for getting permanent residency or U.S. citizenship
- If you think you might qualify—or if you have not spoken to a lawyer in years—give you updated information
We offer in-person and virtual immigration services via phone or computer video call.
Please contact our immigration intake line at (651) 377-8642 and leave a voicemail message to get started and we will return your call.
More information on our immigration and citizenship services can be found here.
About the International Institute of Minnesota
For over half a century, the International Institute of Minnesota has successfully welcomed more than 26,000 refugees to our state. Founded in 1919, the International Institute of Minnesota offers New Americans quality services that support their journey to stability and success. The Institute’s comprehensive offerings include refugee resettlement, English education, workforce and leadership development, college preparation and immigration and citizenship assistance. The Institute is recognized as Minnesota’s leading charitable organization dedicated to helping New Americans rebuild their lives while pursuing their personal and professional goals.
How to Help
Contributions to the International Institute of Minnesota help us fund and provide services during times of uncertainty. The Institute is grateful for the community’s support in standing with New Americans so they can find safety, stability and success. Our mission will remain possible because of the community’s generosity.