As we navigate 2025, significant shifts in U.S. immigration policy under the current
administration are reshaping the legal landscape. These changes affect everything from asylum and refugee programs to visa eligibility and enforcement practices. At Workneh Law, we are committed to helping immigrants and families stay informed, prepared, and protected.
Signed on January 20, 2025, this order aims to end birthright citizenship for children born in the
U.S. to undocumented immigrants and those on temporary visas. The order has been met with immediate legal challenges and has been blocked by multiple federal judges. Protecting The Meaning And Value Of American Citizenship – The White House
Enacted in January 2025, this law mandates the detention of undocumented immigrants charged with specific crimes, including theft-related offenses, assaulting law enforcement
officers, and crimes resulting in serious bodily injury or death. It also empowers states to sue the Department of Homeland Security for alleged failures in immigration enforcement. The Laken Riley Act & Juvenile Delinquency.pdf
An executive order issued in January 2025 suspended the USRAP, citing concerns over national security and the assimilation of refugees. The suspension remains in effect until further assessments determine that the resumption of refugee admissions aligns with U.S. interests. Realigning the United States Refugee Admissions Program – The White House
The administration has ended TPS for both Venezuela and Afghanistan, affecting approximately 350,000 Venezuelans who had been granted legal status due to dire conditions in their home country. This move has led to uncertainty among migrants and employers, particularly in industries like hospitality and construction. Temporary Protected Status | USCIS
The U.S. government is implementing stringent social media screening for all international students applying to American universities. U.S. embassies have been instructed to halt new visa interview appointments pending further guidance on this expansion of vetting procedures. This move has sparked backlash from educational institutions concerned about free speech and academic freedom. Financial Times+2The Times+2New York Post+2
On January 20, 2025, President Trump issued Executive Order 14159, directing the Department of Homeland Security to ensure that aliens comply with their duty to register with the
government under section 262 of the Immigration and Nationality Act. Failure to comply is treated as a civil and criminal enforcement priority. USCIS
The Trump administration has requested the U.S. Supreme Court to overturn a nationwide
injunction blocking the rapid deportation of migrants to third countries without allowing them to raise claims of potential persecution, torture, or harm. The administration argues that delays hinder national security and foreign diplomacy. Reuters
There has been a notable uptick in enforcement actions by U.S. Immigration and Customs
Enforcement (ICE). In May 2025, a 20-year-old Venezuelan high school student in New York City was detained during a routine immigration check-in, despite having no criminal record. This
incident has sparked criticism from educators and city officials. ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations Statistics | ICE
The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) announced a temporary increase in H-2B nonimmigrant visas for FY 2025 to address labor shortages in non-agricultural sectors. However, the additional 19,000 visas made available for returning workers for the early second half of FY 2025 have already been allocated as of April 18, 2025. Temporary Increase in H-2B
Nonimmigrant Visas for FY 2025 | USCIS
Starting April 11, 2025, a new rule requires certain immigrants to register with the U.S.
government. This includes individuals with a Green Card, parole status, a work permit (EAD), or those in immigration court proceedings. The registration aims to enhance the monitoring and management of immigration statuses within the country. Alien Registration Requirement | USCIS
These developments reflect a significant shift in U.S. immigration policy, emphasizing stricter enforcement and revised eligibility criteria. Individuals affected by these changes should consult with immigration professionals to understand their rights and options.
At Workneh Law, based in Illinois, we specialize in immigration law and estate planning. We provide strategic, compassionate, and individualized guidance to navigate the legal process. Contact us— we are here to help. #ሀበሻጠበቃ #ሀበሻየኢሚግሬሽንጠበቃ #HabeshaAttorney #HabeshaImmigrationAttorney #ImmigrationAttorney
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