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Immigration in 2025: What to Do Right Now


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Addressing Immigration Issues Following Donald Trump’s Re-Election

With Donald Trump returning as President on January 20, 2025, you may have concerns about your immigration status and the future of U.S. immigration laws. At John W. Lawit, LLC, we anticipate that there will be significant changes, and immigrants are likely to experience concerns similar to what they faced during President Trump’s previous term. Below are some key actions to consider and steps you can to protect your immigration status:

  • Stay Informed but Avoid Panic: Stay updated on immigration developments but avoid impulsive decisions. Policies take time to implement, and any actions President Trump may try to take will face legal challenges.
  • Secure Immigration Status Early: File for permanent residency (Green Card) or citizenship, if you are eligible. Apply early to avoid potential delays or issues related to policy changes.
  • Maintain a Clean Criminal Record: Even minor infractions can impact your immigration status. Seek legal counsel if necessary to determine how you can defend against criminal charges and address immigration-related concerns.
  • Keep Detailed Records: Organize immigration documents, tax filings, proof of residence, and employment records. Keep digital copies for quick access.
  • Create a Family Preparedness Plan: Families with mixed immigration statuses should prepare legal and financial plans and designate emergency contacts.
  • Consider the Risks of International Travel: People with uncertain immigration statuses should be cautious of travel restrictions, especially after January 20, 2025.
  • Stay Connected to Community Resources: Engage with legal aid groups, consulates, and community organizations for up-to-date support and information.
  • Seek Regular Legal Advice: Schedule check-ins with your immigration attorney to explore your options, address your concerns, and avoid unverified advice.

Executive Order Summaries

Rescinding Biden-Era Immigration Policies

The administration has rolled back several Biden-era executive orders on family reunification, refugee resettlement, and legal immigration. These changes pave the way for stricter enforcement measures, like expedited removals and reinstating public charge restrictions.

  • Key Rescinded Orders:
    • Policies on immigration enforcement priorities.
    • Frameworks for managing migration in collaboration with other countries.
    • Efforts to reunite families separated during Trump’s first term.
    • Programs to rebuild refugee resettlement and integrate new immigrants.

Restricting Birthright Citizenship

A new executive order limits birthright citizenship to children born to U.S. citizens or lawful permanent residents, excluding those born to undocumented parents or visa holders. This policy challenges constitutional protections and could harm efforts to attract global talent.

Strengthening Immigration Enforcement

This executive order focuses on strict enforcement of immigration laws. It reinstates detention for undocumented immigrants, expands expedited removals, and calls for state and local cooperation with federal authorities. Key measures include penalties for undocumented individuals and sanctions on countries refusing to accept deportees.

Border Security Initiatives

The administration announced plans for stricter border security, including restarting the “Remain in Mexico” policy, ending certain humanitarian parole programs, and expanding detention facilities. Critics argue these policies may worsen humanitarian crises and strain resources.

Declaring a National Emergency at the Southern Border

By declaring a national emergency, the administration seeks to deploy military resources to the border, expand surveillance, and expedite deportations. This move raises concerns about the legal and ethical use of military forces in civil enforcement.

Travel Bans and Enhanced Vetting

The administration plans to impose travel bans on countries with “deficient vetting procedures” and implement stricter screening for visa applicants. These measures could cause delays for businesses, families, and individuals applying for legal entry.

Targeting Cartels and Terrorist Organizations

Cartels may be designated as Foreign Terrorist Organizations (FTOs), allowing expedited removal of individuals linked to these groups. Critics argue this policy could lead to legal and procedural challenges.

Suspension of Refugee Admissions

The U.S. refugee program has been suspended indefinitely, with stricter vetting required for future admissions. Critics note that the program already involves rigorous screening, and this suspension may harm vulnerable populations seeking safety.

Gender Policy Changes

The federal government will now only recognize male and female genders, impacting immigration forms, detention policies, and legal documentation. These changes may cause significant hardship for transgender and nonbinary individuals.

America First Trade Policy

Trade policies will be reviewed to prioritize American workers and businesses. Changes could tighten eligibility for nonimmigrant visas, such as TN visas for Canadian and Mexican professionals, impacting businesses that rely on foreign talent.

America First Policy Directive to the State Department

This order prioritizes American interests in foreign policy, potentially reviving measures like the “Buy American, Hire American” directive, which previously increased barriers for employment-based immigration and hurt small businesses and nonprofits.

Key Considerations

  • DACA Advanced Parole & Renewals: Consider filing for DACA advance parole and renew your DACA or TPS status as early as possible.
  • Work Authorizations: Renew temporary work visas (H-1B, OPT) early and explore alternative options for continuing to live and work in the United States.
  • Family-Based Petitions: Ensure that petitions for family-based visas or Green Cards are up-to-date and meet all deadlines.
  • Spousal Parole in Place (PIP): If you are awaiting a response on an application for spousal parole, prepare for potential pauses or delays and explore other options.
  • VAWA and U Visas: Apply immediately for these visas if you are eligible, as humanitarian programs may face restrictions in the future.
  • Prosecutorial Discretion: This option for defending against deportation will likely go away under the Trump administration. Speak to an attorney to learn what other options may be available.
  • Motions to Reopen Deportation and “In Absentia” Orders: These motions will likely be very difficult or nearly impossible to obtain in the future. Your attorney can advise you on what other defenses you may have against deportation.
  • Asylum Law: The ability to claim asylum will most likely be challenged, and applying for asylum will be more difficult. A skilled lawyer can help you understand what steps you can take to address concerns about persecution if you face deportation.
  • Mass Deportation and Enforcements: This was a campaign plan of the Trump administration, and while it may be difficult to enact, fears about large-scale deportation efforts are likely to be a significant concern for many immigrants and family members.
  • Public Charge: This could be a focus that may make family-based petitions more difficult. Consult with an attorney before making any significant adjustments to the benefits your family relies on. An immigration attorney can provide personal guidance, clarifying benefits that may or may not impact your case and helping you make informed decisions that will protect your family’s health, stability, and future immigration goals.
  • TPS (Temporary Protected Status): The Trump administration will likely attempt to end most TPS programs. If you currently have TPS status, consult with an attorney to determine your options.
  • Refugees: There will likely be lower to non-existent refugees allotments into the United States. Our attorneys can provide guidance for people who are seeking refugee status.
  • Delays and Lack of Premium Processing: We will likely see more delays with USCIS and DOS as the invisible wall of prolonged processing times will affect many people.
  • Employment-Based and Investment-Based Immigration: With a focus on U.S. labor, U.S.-based companies and tariffs, and other related concerns, there will most likely be reduced approvals and more scrutiny of these petitions.
  • Student Visas: We will likely see fewer approved student visas, which is a natural pipeline for work and investment visas in the future, similar to how these issues were handled during the first Trump administration.
  • Parole Programs: Many of these will likely be halted and will not be renewed.

Contact Our Texas and New Mexico Immigration Lawyers

While the future of immigration in the United States is uncertain, it is likely that immigrants and their families will encounter signficant legal issues. The need for legal representation from an experienced immigration attorney is more crucial than ever. If you need legal assistance with immigration concerns, reach out to John W. Lawit, LLC today by calling 214-609-2242.