OCTOBER 2025 NEWSLETTER

Government Shutdown

(Cierre del Gobierno)

 

EN: Congress failed to reach a deal to keep the government open, and as of today, October 1, the government is shut down until an agreement is reached. This is the first government shutdown since December 2018 which lasted 35 days. During a shutdown, only “essential” agencies continue operating, while others close. This directly affects the immigration system and may impact how your case is handled. For now, Immigration Court hearings are still proceeding. Although in past shutdowns only detained cases continued while non-detained cases were rescheduled, it appears that even staff handling non-detained dockets are now being treated as essential, so you should expect cases in both categories to move forward. USCIS, which is funded by filing fees, will remain open, but some of its work may slow because it depends on agencies that are closed. For a full overview of how different immigration agencies are impacted, click here.

ES: El Congreso no logró llegar a un acuerdo para mantener al gobierno en funcionamiento, y a partir de hoy, 1 de octubre, el gobierno está cerrado hasta llegar a un acuerdo. Este es el primer cierre gubernamental desde diciembre de 2018, que duró 35 días. Durante un cierre, solo las agencias “esenciales” continúan operando, mientras que otras cierran. Esto afecta directamente al sistema migratorio y podría impactar la forma en que se tramitan los caso. Por ahora, las audiencias en en la Corte de Inmigración siguen llevándose a cabo. Aunque en cierres anteriores solo continuaban los casos de detenidos, mientras que los casos de no detenidos se reprogramaban, parece que ahora incluso el personal encargado de los casos de no detenidos está siendo considerado esencial, por lo que debe esperar que se sigan tramitando casos de ambas categorías. USCIS, que se financia con las tarifas de trámite, permanecerá abierta, pero parte de su trabajo podría retrasarse porque depende de agencias que están cerradas. Para obtener una descripción completa de cómo se ven afectadas las distintas agencias migratorias, haz clic aquí.

 

DACA Back in Play? What You Need to Know Now

(¿Regresa DACA? Lo que debe saber ahora)

 

EN: After years of being frozen, new DACA applications may soon be accepted again. A recent court filing in Texas could restart initial filings, with a judge’s decision expected soon. Though renewals have continued, the freeze has blocked first-time applicants and those who missed renewal deadlines from receiving DACA benefits since 2021. It is expected that any order to restart initial filings will exclude those living in Texas from receiving a work permit. 

Meanwhile, USCIS issued new guidance on when DACA can be revoked. Any attempt by a DACA recipient to purchase a firearm—even unsuccessfully—may trigger termination, since federal law bars persons without certain legal status from gun ownership. Work permits don’t equal firearm eligibility, so be cautious: even applying and being denied could carry consequences.

ES: Después de años de estar paralizado, es posible que pronto se vuelvan a aceptar nuevas solicitudes de DACA. Una reciente presentación judicial en Texas podría reanudar la presentación de solicitudes iniciales, y se espera pronto la decisión de un juez. Aunque las renovaciones han continuado, la paralización ha impedido desde 2021 que solicitantes nuevos y quienes perdieron los plazos de renovación reciban los beneficios de DACA. Se espera que cualquier orden que reanude las solicitudes iniciales excluya a las personas que viven en Texas de recibir un permiso de trabajo.

Mientras tanto, USCIS emitió una nueva guía sobre cuándo puede cancelarse DACA. Cualquier intento por parte de un beneficiario de DACA de comprar un arma de fuego —incluso si no tiene éxito— podría desencadenar la cancelación del beneficio, ya que la ley federal prohíbe la posesión de armas a personas sin cierto estatus legal. Los permisos de trabajo no equivalen a elegibilidad para poseer armas de fuego, así que tenga cuidado: incluso solicitar un arma y que le nieguen la compra podría tener consecuencias.

 

Push for Early Dismissals in Asylum Cases

(Presión para desestimar casos de asilo antes de la audiencia)

 

EN: Both immigration judges and ICE are advancing efforts to cut asylum cases short before they ever reach a full hearing. In a recent decision, the Board of Immigration Appeals (BIA) authorized judges to “pretermit” a case—terminating it early if the evidence, even assumed true, would not meet the legal standard for asylum. At the same time, ICE is pressing for dismissals under the Honduran Asylum Cooperative Agreement (ACA), which allows asylum seekers from third countries to be redirected to Honduras to pursue protection there instead. Both approaches are expected to face significant legal challenges, as they raise serious questions about due process and the right to a full hearing.

ES: Tanto los jueces de inmigración como ICE, están impulsando esfuerzos para dar por terminados casos de asilo antes de que lleguen siquiera a una audiencia completa. En una decisión reciente, la Junta de Apelaciones de Inmigración (BIA) autorizó a los jueces a “pretermitir” un caso —es decir, darlo por terminado anticipadamente— si la evidencia presentada, incluso asumiéndola como verdadera, no cumple con el estándar legal para otorgar asilo. Al mismo tiempo, ICE está presionando para desestimar casos bajo el Acuerdo Cooperativo de Asilo con Honduras (ACA), que permite redirigir a solicitantes de asilo de terceros países hacia Honduras para que busquen protección allá. Se espera que ambos enfoques enfrenten desafíos legales, ya que plantean serias dudas sobre el debido proceso y el derecho a una audiencia completa.

 

Changes Coming to the Naturalization Test

(Cambios en el examen de naturalización)

 

EN: USCIS has announced that changes to the civics portion of the naturalization test will take effect this month for all N-400 applications filed on or after October 20, 2025. Under the new test format, applicants will face a broader pool of questions—128 in total—covering U.S. history, government, and civics. During the interview, officers will ask 20 questions, and applicants must answer at least 12 correctly in order to pass. This update replaces the older version of the test, which had fewer possible questions to study—100 in total—and required getting 6 of 10 correct in the exam. If you are considering applying for citizenship, it is important to be aware of these changes so you can prepare with the updated study materials provided by USCIS.

ES: USCIS anunció que los cambios en la parte de instrucción cívica del examen de naturalización entrarán en vigor este mes para todas las solicitudes del formulario N-400 presentadas el 20 de octubre de 2025 o después. Bajo el nuevo formato del examen, los solicitantes deberán prepararse con un banco más amplio de preguntas: 128 en total, que cubren historia, gobierno y civismo de Estados Unidos. Durante la entrevista, los oficiales harán 20 preguntas, y los solicitantes deberán responder correctamente al menos 12 para aprobar. Esta actualización reemplaza la versión anterior del examen, que tenía un total de 100 preguntas posibles y requería responder correctamente 6 de 10 durante la prueba. Si está considerando solicitar la ciudadanía, es importante que conozca estos cambios para que pueda prepararse con los materiales de estudio actualizados proporcionados por USCIS.

 

More News to Know…

(Otras noticias que deberías saber…)

EN:

  • Starting this month (October 28th), USCIS will no longer accept paper payments such as checks and money orders. 
  • The administration has begun appointing military lawyers (JAG officers) to serve as immigration judges, even as sitting judges are being terminated.
  • Trump’s Big Beautiful Bill created two new asylum fees: $100 required at initial filing of an asylum application and $100 annually for pending asylum cases. USCIS will send letters with details on annual asylum fees and due dates, but the Immigration Courts haven’t yet shared how those fees will be handled.

ES:

  • A partir de este mes (28 de octubre), USCIS ya no aceptará pagos en papel, tales como cheques y giros postales.
  • La administración ha comenzado a nombrar abogados militares (oficiales JAG) para que actúen como jueces de inmigración, incluso mientras se están despidiendo jueces en funciones.
  • La “Big Beautiful Bill” de Trump creó dos nuevas tarifas para el asilo: $100 requeridos al presentar inicialmente la solicitud de asilo y $100 anuales para casos de asilo pendientes. USCIS enviará cartas con detalles sobre las tarifas anuales de asilo y sus fechas de vencimiento, pero las Cortes de Inmigración aún no han indicado cómo se gestionarán dichas tarifas.

SEPTEMBER 2025 NEWSLETTER

Tougher Road to U.S. Citizenship

(Arduo camino hacia la ciudadanía estadounidense)

EN: USCIS has announced new policies that make the path to citizenship more difficult. Officers may now conduct “neighborhood checks,” reaching out to neighbors or coworkers to ask about an applicant’s character. Applicants are also being asked for more proof of integration, such as steady work, financial stability, and community involvement. In addition, stricter rules for good moral character have been restored, meaning past immigration or legal issues may weigh more heavily against applicants.

ES: USCIS ha anunciado nuevas políticas que dificultan el camino hacia la ciudadanía. Los oficiales ahora pueden realizar “revisas comunitarias”, contactando a vecinos o compañeros de trabajo para preguntar sobre el carácter de un solicitante. A los solicitantes también se les exige más pruebas de integración, como empleo estable, estabilidad financiera e involucramiento comunitario. Además, se han restablecido reglas más estrictas sobre el buen carácter moral, lo que significa que problemas migratorios o legales anteriores pueden pesar más en contra de los solicitantes.

 

USCIS Authority Expands to Include Enforcement

(USCIS amplía su autoridad para incluir acciones de control migratorio)

EN:

In May 2025, Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem issued a directive granting USCIS the authority to carry out expedited removal. This change only came to light in August 2025 through ongoing litigation. Traditionally, USCIS has been the agency responsible for providing immigration benefits to applicants and their families. Under this new directive, however, USCIS may now take on an enforcement role by determining during the review of an application whether an individual is subject to expedited removal. Learn more about expedited removal here.

In addition, USCIS may issue Notices to Appear if it determines that an applicant or beneficiary is not eligible for the immigration benefit they are seeking. In such cases, the individual may be placed directly into removal proceedings.

ES:

En mayo de 2025, la Secretaria de Seguridad Nacional Kristi Noem emitió una directiva que otorga al USCIS la autoridad para llevar a cabo remociones aceleradas. Este cambio solo salió a la luz en agosto de 2025 a través de litigios en curso. Tradicionalmente, USCIS ha sido la agencia responsable de proporcionar beneficios migratorios a solicitantes y sus familias. Sin embargo, bajo esta nueva directiva, el USCIS ahora puede asumir un papel de autoridad de la ley al determinar durante la revisión de una solicitud si un individuo está sujeto a remoción acelerada. Conoce más sobre la remoción acelerada aquí.

Además, el USCIS puede emitir Avisos para Comparecer si determina que un solicitante o beneficiario no es elegible para el beneficio migratorio que está solicitando. En tales casos, la persona puede ser incluida directamente en procedimientos de deportación.

 

Restrictions on Non-Immigrant Visas

(Restricciones para visas de no-inmigrantes)

EN: In an ongoing effort by the Trump administration to limit nonimmigrant visas, USCIS has launched a pilot program requiring certain tourist visa applicants from Malawi and Zambia to post a financial bond of between $5,000 and $15,000 before entering the United States. The bond would be refunded only after the traveler departs within the permitted timeframe of their visa. While currently limited to these two countries, the program could be expanded to others depending on how it is implemented.

The administration has also proposed a new regulation that would place fixed terms of stay on specific nonimmigrant visa categories, including international students (F visas), exchange visitors (J visas), and foreign journalists (I visas). This would mean that even if a study program, exchange placement, or assignment lasts longer, the visa would expire at the fixed term—requiring renewal and adding new uncertainty for those relying on these visas.

ES: En un esfuerzo continuo de la administración Trump por limitar las visas de no inmigrantes, USCIS ha lanzado un programa piloto que requiere que ciertos solicitantes de visas turísticas de Malawi y Zambia paguen una fianza de entre $5,000 y $15,000 antes de ingresar a los Estados Unidos. La fianza solo se reembolsará después de que el viajero salga dentro del plazo permitido de su visa. Si bien actualmente se limita a estos dos países, el programa podría ampliarse a otros según su implementación.

La administración también ha propuesto una nueva regulación que establecería plazos fijos de estadía para categorías específicas de visas no inmigrantes, incluyendo estudiantes internacionales (visas F), visitantes en intercambio (visas J) y periodistas extranjeros (visas I). Esto significaría que incluso si un programa de estudios, un intercambio o una asignación dura más tiempo, la visa expiraría en el plazo fijado, requiriendo renovación y añadiendo nueva incertidumbre para quienes dependen de estas visas.

 

More News to Know…

(Otras noticias que deberías saber)

EN:

  • As Trump continues to fire experienced immigration judges, he seeks to bring in new temporary judges with little or no experience.
  • A federal judge has ordered the eviction of all remaining detainees from Florida’s controversial “Alligator Alcatraz” immigration facility, with state officials confirming that the site is expected to be completely vacated within days, though the decision is already being appealed.
  • The August 19, 2025 USCIS policy update adds new discretionary factors, including considerations of “anti-American activity”, but critics caution that such broad discretion could lead to bias and inconsistency.

ES:

  • Mientras Trump continúa despidiendo jueces de inmigración experimentados, busca traer nuevos jueces temporales con poca o ninguna experiencia.
  • Un juez federal ha ordenado el desalojo de todos los detenidos restantes de la controvertida instalación migratoria “Alligator Alcatraz” de Florida, con funcionarios estatales confirmando que se espera que el lugar quede completamente vacío en cuestión de días, aunque la decisión ya está siendo apelada.
  • La actualización de políticas del USCIS del 19 de agosto de 2025 añade nuevos factores discrecionales, incluyendo consideraciones de “actividad antiestadounidense”, pero los críticos advierten que tal amplia discreción podría llevar a sesgos e inconsistencias.

AUGUST 2025 NEWSLETTER

New Immigration Fees and Enforcement Under the “Big Beautiful Bill”

(Nuevas tarifas migratorias y fuerzas del orden bajo la ley “Big Beautiful Bill”)

 

EN: Trump’s “Big Beautiful Bill” passed through Congress and was signed into law on July 4th, adding new immigration filing fees and promising an increase in enforcement. Under the new law, many humanitarian applications that were previously free – such as asylum and Temporary Protected Status (TPS) – now come with filing fees. Other fees, particularly those for applications filed in removal proceedings, have increased substantially. The bill also imposes new fines for immigration violations and allocates a whopping $170 billion over the next four years to expand immigration enforcement, making it the highest funded law enforcement agency in the federal government.

ES: La ley “Big Beautiful Bill” de Trump fue aprobada por el Congreso y firmada como ley el 4 de julio, agregando nuevas tarifas de trámites migratorios y prometiendo un aumento en la aplicación de la ley. Bajo la nueva ley, muchas solicitudes humanitarias que antes eran gratuitas – como asilo y Estatus de Protección Temporal (TPS) – ahora requieren pagar tarifas. Otras tarifas, particularmente para solicitudes presentadas en procedimientos de remoción o deportación, han aumentado considerablemente. La ley también impone nuevas multas por violaciones migratorias y asigna la asombrosa cifra de $170 mil millones durante los próximos cuatro años para expandir las fuerzas del orden migratorias, convirtiéndola en la agencia de las fuerzas del orden mejor financiada del gobierno federal.

 

Trump’s Birthright Citizenship Executive Order Stopped Again

(La orden ejecutiva de Trump sobre ciudadanía por nacimiento bloqueada nuevamente)

 

EN: On June 4, 2025, President Trump issued a proclamation restricting entry to the U.S. for nationals of 19 countries. Citizens of 12 countries (Afghanistan, Burma, Chad, Republic of the Congo, Equatorial Guinea, Eritrea, Haiti, Iran, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, and Yemen) face a full suspension of both immigrant and nonimmigrant visas, while nationals of 7 others (Burundi, Cuba, Laos, Sierra Leone, Togo, Turkmenistan, and Venezuela) are subject to partial restrictions. The administration cited national security threats, inadequate screening by foreign governments, and high visa overstay rates as justification. Exceptions exist for lawful permanent residents, current visa holders, and certain family or humanitarian categories, but the ban is expected to affect hundreds of thousands of people and has already sparked legal and diplomatic pushback. The policy went into effect June 9, 2025.

ES: El 4 de junio de 2025, el presidente Trump emitió una proclamación que restringía la entrada a los Estados Unidos a 19 países. Los ciudadanos de 12 países (Afganistán, Birmania, Chad, República del Congo, Guinea Ecuatorial, Eritrea, Haití, Irán, Libia, Somalia, Sudán y Yemen) enfrentan una suspensión total de las visas de inmigrante y no inmigrante, mientras que los ciudadanos de otros 7 (Burundi, Cuba, Laos, Sierra Leona, Togo, Turkmenistán y Venezuela) están sujetos a restricciones parciales. La administración citó como justificación amenazas a la seguridad nacional, la evaluación inadecuada por parte de gobiernos extranjeros y las altas tasas de sobreestadía de visas. Hay excepciones para los residentes permanentes legales, titulares actuales de visas y ciertas categorías familiares o humanitarias, pero se espera que la prohibición afecte a cientos de miles de personas y ya ha provocado un rechazo legal y diplomático. La política entró en vigencia el 9 de junio de 2025.

 

ICE Implements New Policy on Bond Eligibility

(ICE implementa nueva política sobre elegibilidad para fianza)

 

EN: Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has implemented a new policy stating that noncitizens who last entered the U.S. without being formally admitted are no longer eligible for bond set by an immigration judge and can only be released at ICE’s discretion. Under the new policy, this interpretation of the law applies no matter how long a person has lived in the U.S., their criminal record, their family or community ties, or even their eligibility for legal relief to remain in the country. Because removal proceedings often take years—especially with rising detention numbers and fewer immigration judges—it’s clear that the goal of this new policy is to deter people from pursuing legal status by forcing them to endure prolonged stays in overcrowded, poorly maintained detention centers. Advocates are fighting against this new policy, arguing that it is a misinterpretation of the law and that judges should issue bond over the objection of ICE.

ES: El Servicio de Inmigración y Control de Aduanas (ICE) ha implementado una nueva política que establece que las personas migrantes que ingresaron por última vez a EE.UU. sin ser admitidas formalmente ya no son elegibles para que un juez de inmigración les fije fianza, y solo pueden ser liberadas a discreción del ICE. Bajo esta nueva política, esta interpretación de la ley aplica, sin importar cuánto tiempo haya vivido una persona en EE. UU., su historial criminal, sus vínculos familiares o comunitarios, o incluso su elegibilidad para algún alivio legal para permanecer en el país. Debido a que los procedimientos de expulsión suelen tardar años—especialmente con números crecientes de detención y menos jueces de inmigración—queda claro que el objetivo de esta nueva política es disuadir a las personas de buscar estatus legal obligándolas a soportar estancias prolongadas en centros de detención superpoblados y mal mantenidos. Los defensores luchan contra esta nueva política, argumentando que es una mala interpretación de la ley y que los jueces deberían fijar fianza incluso si el ICE se opone.

 

More News to Know…

(Otras noticias que deberías saber…)

EN:

  • USCIS has quietly ended the DALE (Deferred Action for Labor Enforcement) program, which had provided temporary protection for undocumented workers who reported labor violations.
  • A bipartisan group in Congress has reintroduced the Dignity Act, a comprehensive immigration reform bill aimed at providing a path to legal status for undocumented immigrants while strengthening border security and modernizing the immigration system.
  • Some Lawful Permanent Residents have reported issues when returning to the U.S. from foreign travel. Make sure to know your rights before you go (Download Here).

ES:

  • USCIS ha eliminado discretamente el programa DALE (Acción Diferida para la Aplicación Laboral), que brindaba protección temporal a trabajadores indocumentados que denunciaban violaciones laborales.
  • Un grupo bipartidista en el Congreso ha reintroducido la Ley de Dignidad, un proyecto de ley integral de reforma migratoria que busca brindar un camino al estatus legal para inmigrantes indocumentados, mientras fortalece la seguridad fronteriza y moderniza el sistema migratorio.
  • Algunos Residentes Permanentes Legales (LPR) han reportado problemas al regresar a EE.UU. después de viajes al extranjero. Asegúrese de conocer sus derechos antes de viajar (Descargar aquí).

JULY 2025 NEWSLETTER

Supreme Court Rules on Birthright Citizenship Challenge

(La Corte Suprema emite un fallo sobre la ciudadanía por nacimiento)

 

EN: Soon after taking office, President Trump issued an executive order ending birthright citizenship for children born in the U.S. unless at least one parent is a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident. A lower court blocked the order with a nationwide injunction, but the Supreme Court overturned that injunction on June 27th—without ruling on the order’s constitutionality. The Court gave 30 days before the order can take effect and left the door open for further legal challenges. New lawsuits have already been filed seeking to block the policy through a class action. It is also anticipated that this ruling will now have a sweeping effect on other pending lawsuits challenging immigration actions, allowing new orders to take effect in some parts of the country but not others.

ES: Poco después de asumir el cargo, el presidente Trump emitió una orden ejecutiva que puso fin a la ciudadanía por nacimiento para los niños nacidos en los Estados Unidos. A menos que uno de los padres sea ciudadano estadounidense o residente permanente legal. Un tribunal inferior bloqueó la orden con una orden judicial a nivel nacional, pero la Corte Suprema la anuló el 27 de junio, sin pronunciarse sobre la constitucionalidad de la orden. El Tribunal dio 30 días antes de que la orden entrase en vigor y dejó la puerta abierta para nuevas impugnaciones legales. Ya se han presentado nuevas demandas que buscan bloquear esa política a través de una demanda colectiva. También se anticipa que este fallo ahora tendrá un efecto radical en otras demandas pendientes que desafían las acciones de inmigración, permitiendo que nuevas órdenes entren en vigencia en algunas partes del país, pero no en otras.

 

Travel Ban Announced

(Prohibición de viajes es anunciada oficialmente)

 

EN: On June 4, 2025, President Trump issued a proclamation restricting entry to the U.S. for nationals of 19 countries. Citizens of 12 countries (Afghanistan, Burma, Chad, Republic of the Congo, Equatorial Guinea, Eritrea, Haiti, Iran, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, and Yemen) face a full suspension of both immigrant and nonimmigrant visas, while nationals of 7 others (Burundi, Cuba, Laos, Sierra Leone, Togo, Turkmenistan, and Venezuela) are subject to partial restrictions. The administration cited national security threats, inadequate screening by foreign governments, and high visa overstay rates as justification. Exceptions exist for lawful permanent residents, current visa holders, and certain family or humanitarian categories, but the ban is expected to affect hundreds of thousands of people and has already sparked legal and diplomatic pushback. The policy went into effect June 9, 2025.

ES: El 4 de junio de 2025, el presidente Trump emitió una proclamación que restringía la entrada a los Estados Unidos a 19 países. Los ciudadanos de 12 países (Afganistán, Birmania, Chad, República del Congo, Guinea Ecuatorial, Eritrea, Haití, Irán, Libia, Somalia, Sudán y Yemen) enfrentan una suspensión total de las visas de inmigrante y no inmigrante, mientras que los ciudadanos de otros 7 (Burundi, Cuba, Laos, Sierra Leona, Togo, Turkmenistán y Venezuela) están sujetos a restricciones parciales. La administración citó como justificación amenazas a la seguridad nacional, la evaluación inadecuada por parte de gobiernos extranjeros y las altas tasas de sobreestadía de visas. Hay excepciones para los residentes permanentes legales, titulares actuales de visas y ciertas categorías familiares o humanitarias, pero se espera que la prohibición afecte a cientos de miles de personas y ya ha provocado un rechazo legal y diplomático. La política entró en vigencia el 9 de junio de 2025.

 

DHS Expands Use of Civil Fines for Immigration Violations

(El DHS extiende la imposición de multas civiles por infracciones migratorias)

 

EN: DHS has resumed and expanded its use of civil fines against individuals who violate immigration laws, including unlawful entry, failure to comply with voluntary departure, and ignoring removal orders. Fines can range from $100 per violation to $1,000 per day, and new rules eliminate the previous 30-day warning period. A proposed rule released June 27th, would further streamline the process and clarify legal authority, allowing DHS to issue fines more efficiently. While DHS claims the move encourages compliance, advocates warn it could disproportionately harm low-income immigrants and deter valid legal claims. Public comments on the proposal are open until July.

ES: El DHS ha reanudado y ampliado el uso de multas civiles contra personas que violan las leyes de inmigración, incluida la entrada ilegal, el incumplimiento de la salida voluntaria y el desconocimiento de las órdenes de expulsión. Las multas pueden oscilar entre $ 100 por infracción y $ 1,000 por día, y las nuevas reglas eliminan el anterior período de advertencia de 30 días. Una regla propuesta publicada el 27 de junio agilizaría aún más el proceso y aclararía la autoridad legal, lo que permitiría al DHS emitir multas de manera más eficiente. Si bien el DHS afirma que la medida fomenta el cumplimiento, los defensores advierten que podría dañar desproporcionadamente a los inmigrantes de bajos ingresos y disuadir los reclamos legales válidos. Los comentarios públicos sobre la propuesta están abiertos hasta julio.

 

More News to Know…

(Otras noticias que deberías saber…)

EN:

  • In an effort to speed up and increase the number of deported immigrants, cases filed either with USCIS or the Immigration Court have faced dismissals where the government can argue that the individual should be subject to expedited removal
  • Minors who have applied for Special Immigrant Juvenile protections are no longer automatically considered for deferred action and employment authorization – it is now necessary to apply on a case-by-case basis.
  • Visa processing for F, M, and J visas has resumed, but those applicants should be wary as their social media accounts must now be set to public viewing and will be thoroughly reviewed during the visa process.
  • The Trump Administration terminated TPS for Haitians, effective September 2, 2025.

ES:

  • En un esfuerzo por acelerar y aumentar el número de inmigrantes deportados, los casos presentados ante USCIS o la Corte de Inmigración han enfrentado denegaciones en los que el gobierno puede argumentar que el individuo debería estar sujeto a una expulsión acelerada
  • Los menores que han solicitado protecciones especiales para menores inmigrantes ya no se consideran automáticamente para la acción diferida y la autorización de empleo. Ahora es necesario solicitarlas caso por caso.
  • El procesamiento de visas para visas F, M y J se ha reanudado, pero esos solicitantes deben ser precavidos, ya que sus cuentas de redes sociales ahora deben estar configuradas como públicas y serán revisadas a fondo durante el proceso de la visa.
  • La Administración de Trump terminó el Estatus de Protección Temporal (TPS) para los haitianos, con efecto el 2 de septiembre de 2025.

Trump’s Immigration Executive Actions on Inauguration Day

On January 20, 2025, just hours after the inauguration, President Donald Trump took action on immigration with a series of executive orders that signal a dramatic shift in U.S. border policy and enforcement. The most significant of these measures is the declaration of a national emergency at the southern border, which the President framed as an “invasion” of individuals attempting to enter the U.S. unlawfully. This emergency declaration allows for the use of U.S. Armed Forces to assist in border enforcement, providing an aggressive response to what the administration perceives as a growing threat to national security.

In addition to this national emergency declaration, the Trump administration has moved swiftly to prevent entry at the southern border for those seeking asylum or those it deems to be “invaders”. The new policy aims to block asylum seekers from entering the U.S., reversing previous practices that allowed them to cross the border and await hearings. Instead, the administration has reinstated the “Remain in Mexico” policy, requiring asylum seekers to stay in Mexico while awaiting their U.S. immigration hearings. This approach is designed to deter individuals from attempting to enter the country through the southern border, and it complements the administration’s broader strategy to secure the U.S.-Mexico border.

One of the most controversial measures included in the executive actions is a proposed change to the longstanding practice of birthright citizenship. Under the new policy, children born in the U.S. on or after February 19, 2025, will only be granted citizenship if at least one parent is a lawful permanent resident or U.S. citizen. This marks a significant departure from the current interpretation of the 14th Amendment, which has traditionally conferred citizenship on all children born on U.S. soil, regardless of their parents’ immigration status. Lawsuits challenging this executive order have already been filed.

The executive orders also target broader immigration enforcement, including the revocation of policies from the previous administration that allowed for prosecutorial discretion in certain immigration cases. Under the new directives, the Trump administration will prioritize the prosecution of criminal offenses related to unauthorized entry or unlawful presence. Additionally, the administration plans to expand the use of 287(g) agreements, which enable local and state authorities to assist in the enforcement of federal immigration laws, thereby extending the reach of immigration enforcement at the local level. For those jurisdictions that would rather opt out of this cooperation and dub themselves as “sanctuary cities”, the executive orders seek to enforce penalties by withholding certain federal funds.

Other key provisions include expanded detention practices, with a focus on holding individuals in custody until they can be removed from the U.S. The administration has also proposed the creation of a visa bond system, which would require certain immigrants to post a bond to guarantee their departure from the country when required. On the issue of Temporary Protected Status (TPS), Trump seeks to limit the scope and duration of these protections, ensuring they are only granted for as long as necessary to address the immediate needs in affected countries.

Together, these executive actions represent a decisive and enforcement-heavy approach to immigration policy, one that seeks to drastically limit immigration benefits and tighten border security. With a focus on physical barriers, expanded detention, and restrictions on entry, the Trump administration is pushing for a more restrictive immigration system that is likely to face legal challenges and intense public debate as it moves forward.

Understanding DALE: Deferred Action for Labor Enforcement

Deferred Action for Labor Enforcement (DALE) is a program designed to protect immigrant workers who report labor violations, such as wage theft or unsafe working conditions. This program provides temporary protection from deportation and a work permit, encouraging workers to speak up without fear of immigration consequences.

Application Process

Applying for DALE involves submitting a request through a specific U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) process. Workers can initiate the application by requesting a Statement of Interest (SOI) from the appropriate labor agency and then filing that SOI along with Forms G-325A and I-765 to USCIS. Applicants must attend a biometrics appointment while the application process is ongoing, and will generally receive a decision within four to six months.

Image: Requests for Deferred Action for Workers in Support of Labor Agency Investigations English Infographic

Validity of Work Permits

Once approved, DALE offers a work permit that typically lasts for four years. It previously was only issued for two years, but in July of 2024, the duration of the work permit was extended to a full four years. This permit allows workers to be legally employed in the United States during this period. In some instances, the protections can be extended, especially if the worker continues to be involved in labor enforcement efforts or if the conditions warrant further protection. If you previously applied for DALE and were only given a two-year work permit card, you may be eligible to extend your work permit for an additional two years.

Support and Accessibility

DALE does not impose criminal bars, meaning that a wide range of workers, including those with past minor offenses, can apply for this protection. This broad accessibility is crucial for encouraging more workers to report labor violations without fearing retaliation in the form of deportation. However, if you do have any prior immigration or criminal violations, it is advisable to consult with an attorney about the risks associated with any application prior to filing for these benefits.

 

Last Updated: 7.29.2024 (*Note That Immigration Rules, Regulations, And Practices Change Frequently. Make Sure To Check For Updated Information Since The Posting Of This Article.)

President Biden’s Action to Keep Families Together (June 2024)

On June 18 2024, President Biden announced a presidential extension of the program known as “Parole in Place”. The purpose of this parole program is to allow persons that are already in the United States but who entered illegally to seek a lawful entry without having to ever leave the United States. Most popularly used by family of U.S. military members, Biden is now extending it to the spouses of U.S. citizens and their children.

Traditionally, if the spouse of a U.S. citizen entered the United States illegally, they must seek a hardship waiver and further processing of an immigrant visa for a green card (lawful permanent residency) outside of the United States, often necessitating long periods of time outside of the United States, separated from their families. Biden’s announcement is meant to keep families unified by allowing the application for a green card (lawful permanent residency) to take place within the United States, without requiring any departure from the United States or time spent abroad.

Though additional details have still yet to be announced, the known qualifications are currently that an applicant must:

  • Be present in the United States without admission or parole;
  • Have been continuously in the United States for at least 10 years as of June 17, 2024;
  • Have a legally valid marriage to a US Citizen as of June 17, 2024;
  • Not be disqualified based on criminal history;
  • Deserving of a favorable exercise of discretion.

So long as these criteria are met, the spouse and children (unmarried and under 21yo) of a US citizen may seek a “parole in place” for a period of three (3) years to allow them to obtain a work permit and to complete the immigration process more seamlessly from within the United States.

In this same announcement, President Biden remarked that he also plans to make non-immigrant visas more accessible to persons with DACA  and other Dreamers with degrees from US institutions of higher education. For these individuals who have a job offer from a U.S. employer, this new action will seek to make it possible to obtain a non-immigrant employment visa where one otherwise may not have been possible due to various immigration bars.

These programs are not yet available so please do not pay any fees associated with filings or submit documents in application for these benefits as it is not yet available. Beware of scams and persons trying to take advantage of this announcement. Additional information is expected to be released soon in order to help individuals determine whether their case may or may not benefit from this announcement. Stay tuned!

 

Last Updated: 6.18.2024 (*Note That Immigration Rules, Regulations, And Practices Change Frequently. Make Sure To Check For Updated Information Since The Posting Of This Article.)

President Biden’s Action to Secure the Border (June 2024)

On June 4, 2024, President Biden announced his new Presidential Proclamation to try and curb illegal border entries at the southern border. The proclamation restricts entry to the United States for those entering without a visa or other lawful permission. The new measures went into effect today, June 5, 2024. For more detailed information, please visit: https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefing-room/presidential-actions/2024/06/04/a-proclamation-on-securing-the-border/

 

Last Updated: 6.5.2024 (*Note That Immigration Rules, Regulations, And Practices Change Frequently. Make Sure To Check For Updated Information Since The Posting Of This Article.)

New USCIS Fees Announced for 2024!

On January 30, 2024, USCIS announced the final rule for an adjusted fee schedule. The changes to fees impact many categories of applications and will go into effect on April 1, 2024. Anything postmarked on or after April 1, 2024 will be subject to the new fees. To apply under the current fee schedule, applications must be postmarked before April 1, 2024.

USCIS press release: https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/news-releases/uscis-issues-final-rule-to-adjust-certain-immigration-and-naturalization-fees

To read the rule in its entirety (it’s long!), you can go here: https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2024/01/31/2024-01427/us-citizenship-and-immigration-services-fee-schedule-and-changes-to-certain-other-immigration

To read the USCIS FAQ’s about the change (much shorter), you can go here: https://www.uscis.gov/forms/filing-fees/frequently-asked-questions-on-the-uscis-fee-rule

If you need to apply for a fee waiver, you can find out your eligibility by comparing your household income to the federal poverty guidelines, which are found here: https://aspe.hhs.gov/topics/poverty-economic-mobility/poverty-guidelines

Moving? Update Your Address With Immigration!

If you have a pending application or petition with an Immigration agency, or if you are a non-US citizen, you will need to file a change of address anytime you move (unless you are in the US with a “A” or “G” visa or as a Visa Waiver Visitor). You must file the change of address with every agency that is handling your case, whether it is U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, the U.S. Department of State, the Immigration Court, or another agency/office.

Here are some links and information to help you get the change of address done correctly. And, remember, make sure you file your change of address the FIRST WEEK you move! Most agencies require that they be updated within 5-10 business days of your move.

If you have a case pending with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS):
– Paper filing/general instructions: https://www.uscis.gov/ar-11

– Online filing: https://egov.uscis.gov/coa/displayCOAForm.do

– Special filing locations for U/T/VAWA cases: https://www.uscis.gov/addresschange

If you are a financial sponsor for an intending immigrant and have filed Form I-864:
– Paper filing: https://www.uscis.gov/i-865

If you have a case pending with the Immigration Court / Executive Office for Immigration Review (EOIR):
– Paper filing: https://www.justice.gov/eoir/form-eoir-33-eoir-immigration-court-listing

– Online filing: https://respondentaccess.eoir.justice.gov/en/forms/eoir33ic/

*Remember, anything you send to the Immigration Court, must also be sent to the Office of Principal Legal Advisor (OPLA) with Homeland Security, by mail. For the correct address, search by location: https://www.ice.gov/contact/field-off…

If you are reporting to Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE):
– Online filing: https://onlinechangeofaddress.ice.gov/ocoa

If you are a bond obligor:
– Paper filing: https://www.ice.gov/doclib/forms/i333.pdf

If you have a case with the National Visa Center (NVC) or the U.S. Embassy for consular processing:
– https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/us-visas/visa-information-resources/ask-nvc.html