The immigration landscape in the United States continues to shift under President Donald Trump’s administration, creating new challenges for the immigrant community. This week, we analyze four key issues that directly affect those seeking to regularize their status in the country.
1. Trump Suspends Immigration Applications from the Biden Era
The Trump administration has indefinitely paused thousands of immigration applications from Latin Americans and Ukrainians who entered the U.S. under Biden-era programs, citing concerns about fraud and national security.
This has created uncertainty for individuals who were in the process of obtaining a Green Card or legal status in the country. The suspension affects programs like Humanitarian Parole, which was widely used during Biden’s presidency to promote legal migration.
How does this impact immigrants?
- Adjustment of status applications through marriage are now suspended.
- Asylum seekers can no longer move forward with their cases through USCIS.
- The government is revoking parole for those already in the U.S. and placing them in immigration court proceedings.
If you are affected by this situation, it is crucial to seek legal advice to explore available options and avoid being placed in deportation proceedings.
2. Immigration Detaining Immigrants at Mandatory Check-Ins
In New York, immigration attorneys have reported that ICE is detaining immigrants when they attend mandatory immigration check-ins, even when they have no criminal record.
This fear-driven strategy has made many immigrants hesitant to comply with their legal obligations, worrying that attending a required appointment could result in detention and deportation.
What to do if you have an ICE appointment?
- Consult with an attorney before attending.
- Do not sign any documents without legal review.
- Have an emergency plan in place in case of detention.
If a loved one is facing this risk, seeking legal guidance is essential to understanding their rights and available options.
3. ICE Raids in Chicago and Constitutional Violations
The Trump administration has launched aggressive immigration raids in Chicago, targeting immigrants—many of whom have no criminal background.
Legal experts argue that these tactics may violate the Fourth Amendment, which protects against unreasonable searches and seizures.
Your rights during an ICE raid:
- Do not open the door without a judicial warrant signed by a judge.
- Do not answer any questions without an attorney present.
- If ICE enters without permission, document everything and seek legal help.
If ICE has violated your rights, you may be able to sue the government and potentially overturn any actions taken against you.
4. Fingerprinting of Adults Claiming Immigrant Children
The Trump administration has reintroduced a controversial policy requiring fingerprinting of all adults living with immigrant children who seek release from detention centers.
This policy could delay family reunifications, as many undocumented adults fear that providing fingerprints will lead to their deportation.
How does this policy affect immigrant children?
- Longer stays in federal shelters.
- Increased fear among family members willing to claim the children.
- Possible deportations of adults trying to reunite with them.
If an immigrant child has suffered neglect, abuse, or abandonment, they may qualify for a Special Immigrant Juvenile Visa (SIJ), which provides a pathway to a Green Card. Seeking legal advice is crucial to exploring this option.
Take Action and Protect Your Future!
With these changes happening, the best way to protect yourself is by staying informed and seeking legal counsel. Many people are unaware that they may qualify for a humanitarian remedy, and due to a lack of information, they miss the opportunity to obtain residency or work permits.
If you need legal assistance, schedule a consultation by calling 877-619-8472. You can do so in person in San Diego or San Marcos, or via video call from anywhere in the U.S..
Don’t let fear or misinformation dictate your future. Know your rights and take action today!