Practice Resources

Tracking Notable Executive Branch Action during the Second Trump Administration

1/21/25 AILA Doc. No. 25011701.

This page tracks select changes to immigration-related regulations and policy that have been proposed or promulgated by the second Trump Administration. AILA is analyzing these orders and other executive actions to provide guidance and share analysis with AILA members.

Additional resources for AILA members:

Please Note: Information found on this page does not constitute legal advice. Material found here is not a substitute for independent legal advice based on a thorough review and analysis of the facts of each individual case, or for independent research based on statutory and regulatory authorities; case law; policy guidance; and, for procedural issues, federal government websites.

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Practice Resources

Practice Alert: Update on TPS Venezuela EAD Validity

The AILA Verification and Documentation Committee provides this update alerting members about the validity of employment authorization documents for Venezuelan nationals who were granted Temporary Protected Status under the 2023 designation.

Federal Agencies, Agency Memos & Announcements

Presidential Proclamation Establishing “Project Homecoming”

On 5/9/25, President Trump signed a proclamation that creates a process for departure for undocumented immigrants using the CBP Home app, provides government-funded flights and an exit bonus, directs DHS to increase its enforcement and removal operations force, and more. (90 FR 20357, 5/14/25)

5/14/25 AILA Doc. No. 25051200. Removal & Relief
Federal Agencies, Agency Memos & Announcements

Executive Order on Sanctuary Cities

On 4/28/25, President Trump signed Executive Order (EO) 14287 that directs the AG and the DHS Secretary to publish a list of states and local jurisdictions that “obstruct the enforcement of Federal immigration laws” and to bring non-compliant jurisdictions into compliance. (90 FR 18761, 5/2/25)

5/2/25 AILA Doc. No. 25042900.
Federal Agencies, FR Regulations & Notices

Presidential Memo on Preventing Undocumented Individuals from Obtaining Social Security Act Benefits

On 4/15/25, President Trump issued a presidential memorandum that, among other things, directs certain agency heads to ensure that ineligible noncitizens are not receiving funds from Social Security Act programs and expands SSA’s full-time fraud prosecutor program. (90 FR 16451, 4/18/25)

4/18/25 AILA Doc. No. 25041633.
Federal Agencies, Agency Memos & Announcements

Presidential Memo on Military Control of Public Land along Southern Border

On 4/11/25, President Trump issued a presidential memorandum that, among other things, directs the heads of certain agencies to take actions facilitating the use and jurisdiction of federal lands along the southern border by the Department of Defense to enable military activities.

4/11/25 AILA Doc. No. 25041431. Admissions & Border
Immigration News

New York Times: Pressuring Migrants to 'Self-Deport,' White House Moves to Cancel Social Security Numbers

The Trump Administration has revoked the temporary legal status of hundreds of thousands of immigrants allowed into the country under the Biden Administration. Now, to pressure some of those immigrants and others who had legal status to "self-deport," it is canceling the SSNs they lawfully obtained.

Federal Agencies, Agency Memos & Announcements

DHS Reminds Foreign Nationals to Register Under Federal Law or Face Legal Penalties

DHS Secretary Noem reminded all foreign nationals present in the United Stated longer than 30 days that the deadline to register under the Alien Registration Act is on 4/11/25.

4/11/25 AILA Doc. No. 25041114.
Practice Resources

Practice Alert: DOS to Revoke Visas and Issue Travel Restrictions on South Sudan Nationals

The DOS Committee provides this practice alert on the DOS announcement imposing a travel ban on South Sudanese passport holders.

4/9/25 AILA Doc. No. 25040903. Admissions & Border, Consular Processing
Federal Agencies, FR Regulations & Notices

DHS Notice of Determination of Waiver for Construction of Border Wall in California

DHS notice of determination of necessity to waive certain laws, regulations, and other legal requirements to ensure the expeditious construction of barriers and roads in the vicinity of the international land border in California. Determination takes effect on 4/8/25. (90 FR 15153, 4/8/25)

4/8/25 AILA Doc. No. 25040801. Admissions & Border
Federal Agencies, FR Regulations & Notices

Executive Order on Making District of Columbia “Safe and Beautiful”

On 3/27/25, President Trump issued Executive Order (EO) 14252 which, among other things, establishes a task force to direct maximum enforcement of federal immigration law in the Washington, D.C., area and to monitor D.C.’s sanctuary city status. (90 FR 14559, 4/3/25)

4/3/25 AILA Doc. No. 25040305. Removal & Relief
Federal Agencies, FR Regulations & Notices

Executive Order on Integrity of U.S. Elections

On 3/25/25, President Trump issued Executive Order (EO) 14248, “Preserving and Protecting the Integrity of American Elections,” which, among other things, includes a section on enforcing the citizenship requirement for federal elections. (90 FR 14005, 3/28/25)

3/28/25 AILA Doc. No. 25032506.
Practice Resources

Practice Alert: DHS Notice Terminating CHNV Parole Processes

DHS has issued an advance copy of the notice to be published in the Federal Register on March 25, 2025 which will terminate the categorical parole programs for inadmissible noncitizens from Cuba, Haiti, Nicaragua, and Venezuela (CHNV) and their immediate family members.

3/24/25 AILA Doc. No. 25032403.
Practice Resources

Practice Alert: CIS Ombudsman, CRCL, OIDO Offices Closed as of 3/21/25, Staff Reportedly Dismissed

AILA has received confirmation that the office of the CIS Ombudsman, OIDO, and CRCL have closed and staff has been placed on a 60-day administrative leave. Pending Ombudsman inquiries should be considered closed. AILA will share more information as it becomes available.

3/21/25 AILA Doc. No. 25032101.
Practice Resources

Practice Alert: DHS to Publish the Alien Registration Form and Evidence of Registration Interim Final Rule

On 3/12/25, DHS will be publishing an Interim Final Rule (IFR), which will take within 30 days requiring individuals to register their presence and provide their fingerprints if they are in the U.S. for 30 days or more. AILA provides the following based on the advanced copy of the IFR.

3/11/25 AILA Doc. No. 25031108.
Practice Resources

Practice Alert: AILA Litigates USCIS Announcement of New Form Editions with No Grace Period for Prior Editions

USCIS began requiring new editions of various forms with no grace period for prior editions. AILA contacted USCIS multiple times and received no response, so AILA and partners filed a lawsuit to compel USCIS to extend a grace period. After the suit was filed, AILA received a response from USCIS.

Federal Agencies, FR Regulations & Notices

Executive Order Designating English as the Official Language of the United States

On 3/1/25, President Trump issued Executive Order (EO) 14224, which designates English as the official language of the United States. The order does not require or direct any change in the services provided by any agency. (90 FR 11363, 3/6/25)

3/6/25 AILA Doc. No. 25030600.
Examples & Questions

AILA Collecting Information for Potential Declarations on Form Grace Periods

This survey gathers information from AILA members that would be willing to write a declaration for a potential court filing on USCIS form changes made without notice or grace period in February/March 2025.

3/5/25 AILA Doc. No. 25030504.
Practice Resources

Practice Alert: USCIS Policy Memo on the Issuances of NTAs

On February 28, 2025, USCIS detailing guidance regarding USCIS issuance of Notices to Appear (NTAs). This practice alert summarizes the memo and provides practice advice in light of the memo's directives.

Federal Agencies, FR Regulations & Notices

Executive Order on Ending Federal Funding for Undocumented Immigrants

On 2/19/25, President Trump signed Executive Order (EO) 14218 directing the head of each executive department or agency to identify all federally funded programs that currently permit undocumented immigrants to obtain any cash or non-cash public benefit, among other actions. (90 FR 10581, 2/25/25)

2/25/25 AILA Doc. No. 25022005.
Federal Agencies, Agency Memos & Announcements

White House Releases Fact Sheet on Executive Order Ending Federal Benefits for Undocumented Immigrants

The White House released a fact sheet stating that, on 2/19/25, President Trump signed an Executive Order (EO) directing federal departments and agencies to identify all federally funded programs currently providing financial benefits to undocumented immigrants and to “take corrective action.”

2/19/25 AILA Doc. No. 25022000.
Federal Agencies, FR Regulations & Notices

Executive Order on U.S. Foreign Relations

On 2/12/25, President Trump issued Executive Order (EO) 14211 that calls for the reform of the Foreign Service in recruiting, performance, evaluation, and retention standards, and directs the Secretary of State to revise or replace the Foreign Affairs Manual (FAM). (90 FR 9831, 2/18/25)

2/18/25 AILA Doc. No. 25021400. Admissions & Border, Consular Processing
Federal Agencies, FR Regulations & Notices

Executive Order on Addressing Actions of South Africa

On 2/7/25, President Trump issued Executive Order (EO) 14204, “Addressing Egregious Actions of the Republic of South Africa,” stating that it is U.S. policy to promote the resettlement of Afrikaner refugees, as long as South Africa continues “unjust and immoral practices.” (90 FR 9497, 2/12/25)

2/12/25 AILA Doc. No. 25021204. Admissions & Border, Asylum & Refugees
Federal Agencies, Agency Memos & Announcements

DOS Issues Sex Marker Passport Guidance

DOS issued guidance explaining that, under the 1/20/25 Executive Order (EO) 14168, “Defending Women from Gender Ideology Extremism and Restoring Biological Truth to the Federal Government,” it will no longer issue U.S. passports or Consular Reports of Birth Abroad (CRBAs) with an X marker.

2/11/25 AILA Doc. No. 25021306. Admissions & Border, Consular Processing
Practice Resources

Practice Alert: The Latest on TPS for Venezuela

Practice Alert on the recent DHS notice vacating the 1/10/25 extension and redesignation of TPS for Venezuela and the upcoming termination of certain Venezuelan TPS beneficiaries on 4/7/25. Please note that this termination has been postponed by a March 31, 2025 court order.

Federal Agencies, Agency Memos & Announcements

DOS Provides Update on I-730 Following-to-Join Refugee Processing

DOS provided an update on I-730 following-to-join refugee (FTJ-R) processing in light of the 1/20/25 Executive Order 14163, stating that the suspension of the processing of all refugee applications includes FTJ-R travel eligibility determinations conducted at consular posts and embassies overseas.

2/7/25 AILA Doc. No. 25020762. Asylum & Refugees
Federal Agencies, Agency Memos & Announcements

EOIR Rescinds Memo on Language Access in Immigration Court

EOIR Acting Director Sirce Owen issued Policy Memorandum (PM) 25-20 rescinding and canceling the 6/6/23 Director’s Memorandum (DM) 23-02, which provided guidance to IJs regarding language access issues in immigration court proceedings.

2/6/25 AILA Doc. No. 25020700. Removal & Relief
Federal Agencies, FR Regulations & Notices

USCIS Notice of Termination of 2023 Designation of Venezuela for TPS

USCIS notice that the DHS Secretary is terminating the 10/3/23 Temporary Protected Status (TPS) designation of Venezuela, effective 4/7/25. This termination determination does not apply to the 2021 designation of Venezuela for TPS, which remains in effect until 9/10/25. (90 FR 9040, 2/5/25)

Federal Agencies, Agency Memos & Announcements

DOJ Issues Memo on Sanctuary Jurisdiction Directives

Attorney General Pamela Bondi issued a memo on sanctuary jurisdiction directives, stating that sanctuary jurisdictions should not receive access to federal grants administered by the DOJ, among other things.

2/5/25 AILA Doc. No. 25020761. Removal & Relief
Federal Agencies, Agency Memos & Announcements

EOIR Issues Memo on Re-Establishing a Robust Anti-Fraud Program

EOIR Acting Director Sirce Owen issued Policy Memorandum (PM) 25-19 stating that EOIR is committed to re-establishing a robust and effective Anti-Fraud Program that will provide resources to employees on how to identify and report suspected fraud, coordinate with investigative authorities, and more.

2/5/25 AILA Doc. No. 25020600. Asylum & Refugees, Removal & Relief
Federal Agencies, Agency Memos & Announcements

EOIR Reinstates Memo on Legal Advocacy by Non-Representatives in Immigration Court

EOIR Acting Director Sirce Owen issued Policy Memorandum (PM) 25-18 rescinding the 5/5/22 Director’s Memorandum (DM) 22-06 and reinstating the 11/21/19 PM 20-05, which reaffirms principles related to legal advocacy by non-representatives in immigration court proceedings.

2/4/25 AILA Doc. No. 25020505. Removal & Relief
Practice Resources

Practice Alert: New ICE Guidance on Current or Potential Victim-Based Benefits

On January 31, 2025, it was reported on social media that the previous day, ICE had issued new policy guidance to its employees. The VAWA/U/T Committee provides members with details of and practice pointers in regards to this notice.

2/3/25 AILA Doc. No. 25020604. T & U Status, VAWA
Federal Agencies, FR Regulations & Notices

USCIS Notice of Vacatur of 2025 TPS Decision for Venezuela

USCIS notice that DHS Secretary Kristi Noem has decided to vacate the 1/10/25 decision of former DHS Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas regarding TPS for Venezuela, which had extended the 2023 designation of Venezuela for TPS for 18 months, among other actions. Effective immediately. (90 FR 8805, 2/3/25)

Federal Agencies, Agency Memos & Announcements

EOIR Reinstates Policy Memos with Guidance on Asylum Applications and Continuances

EOIR Acting Director Sirce Owen issued Policy Memorandum (PM) 25-17 rescinding and canceling Director’s Memorandum (DM) 22-05 and reinstating Policy Memoranda (PM) 19-05, 21-06, and 21-13, which provide guidance on the processing and adjudication of asylum applications and on continuances.

2/3/25 AILA Doc. No. 25020402. Asylum & Refugees, Removal & Relief
Federal Agencies, Agency Memos & Announcements

EOIR Rescinds Memo Providing Guidance on Enforcement Priorities and Prosecutorial Discretion

EOIR Acting Director Sirce Owen issued Policy Memorandum (PM) 25-16 that rescinds the 9/28/23 Director’s Memorandum (DM) 23-04, which provided guidance to EOIR adjudicators on DHS enforcement priorities and prosecutorial discretion initiatives.

2/3/25 AILA Doc. No. 25020401. Prosecutorial Discretion, Removal & Relief
Federal Agencies, FR Regulations & Notices

Executive Order on Additional Measures to Combat Anti-Semitism

On 1/29/25, President Trump issued Executive Order (EO) 14188 that, among other actions, directs certain heads of agencies to include in reports to the president recommendations to familiarize colleges and universities with the grounds for inadmissibility under INA §212(a)(3). (90 FR 8847, 2/3/25)

2/3/25 AILA Doc. No. 25020307. Removal & Relief
Federal Agencies, Agency Memos & Announcements

EOIR Issues Memo Reinstating Prior Guidance on Child Advocates in Immigration Proceedings

EOIR Acting Director Sirce Owen issued Policy Memorandum (PM) 25-14, rescinding a 2023 Director’s Memorandum (DM) that directed IJs to accept certain filings as evidence and to allow certain witnesses to testify, and reinstating the 11/15/19 PM 20-03, “Child Advocates in Immigration Proceedings.”

1/31/25 AILA Doc. No. 25020304. Humanitarian Parole, Removal & Relief, Unaccompanied Children
Federal Agencies, Agency Memos & Announcements

EOIR Issues Memo on the Office of the Chief Administrative Hearing Officer

EOIR Acting Director Sirce Owen issued Policy Memorandum (PM) 25-13 in order to reset EOIR policy toward the Office of the Chief Administrative Hearing Officer and “reiterate EOIR’s commitment to fair treatment of its components and employees.”

1/31/25 AILA Doc. No. 25020303. Employer Compliance
Federal Agencies, Agency Memos & Announcements

EOIR Issues Memo on Office of Legal Access Programs

EOIR Acting Director Sirce Owen issued Policy Memorandum (PM) 25-15 to clarify questions regarding the status and function of EOIR’s Office of Legal Access Programs (OLAP), including information on the Legal Orientation Program (LOP).

1/31/25 AILA Doc. No. 25020305. Removal & Relief
Federal Agencies, FR Regulations & Notices

Executive Order Designating Ansar Allah as a Foreign Terrorist Organization

On 1/22/25, President Trump issued Executive Order (EO) 14175 directing the Secretary of State to take all appropriate action, consistent with INA §219, with regard to designating Ansar Allah as a terrorist organization (FTO), among other actions. (90 FR 8639, 1/31/25)

1/31/25 AILA Doc. No. 25012301. Admissions & Border, Consular Processing
Federal Agencies, FR Regulations & Notices

Executive Order on Removing Barriers to American Leadership in Artificial Intelligence

This executive order (EO) revokes certain existing AI policies and directives following the revocation of a 10/30/23 EO that recommended policies to facilitate access to O-1, EB-1, EB-2, and entrepreneur parole visa options for foreign nationals with AI expertise. (90 FR 8741, 1/31/25)

1/31/25 AILA Doc. No. 25012463. Business Immigration, Consular Processing
Federal Agencies, Agency Memos & Announcements

EOIR Issues Memo on Laken Riley Act

EOIR Acting Director Sirce Owen issued Policy Memorandum (PM) 25-11 providing guidance on provisions of the Laken Riley Act, which was signed into law by President Trump on 1/29/25, that are directly relevant to EOIR operations.

1/30/25 AILA Doc. No. 25013106. Crimes, Detention & Bond
Federal Agencies, FR Regulations & Notices

Executive Order on Enhancing Visa Vetting and Screening

On 1/20/25, President Trump issued Executive Order (EO) 14161 to further enhance the vetting and screening processes across agencies all relevant federal agencies for purposes of visa issuance. (90 FR 8451, 1/30/25)

1/30/25 AILA Doc. No. 25012105. Admissions & Border, Consular Processing, Removal & Relief
Federal Agencies, FR Regulations & Notices

Presidential Memo on Adjustments to U.S. Trade Policy

On 1/20/25, President Trump issued a memorandum calling on the U.S. Trade Representative to commence public consultations ahead of the 2026 review of the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) and assess the impact of the USMCA on American workers, farmers, ranchers, and others. (90 FR 8471, 1/30/25)

1/30/25 AILA Doc. No. 25012008. Admissions & Border, Business Immigration, TN Professionals
Federal Agencies, FR Regulations & Notices

Executive Order Suspending the U.S. Refugee Admissions Program

On 1/20/25, President Trump issued Executive Order (EO) 14163 that, among other actions, suspends the U.S. Refugee Assistance Program (USRAP) effective at 12:01am (ET) on 1/27/25. (90 FR 8459, 1/30/25)

1/30/25 AILA Doc. No. 25012006. Admissions & Border, Asylum & Refugees
Federal Agencies, Agency Memos & Announcements

EOIR Reinstates Memo on Biennial Fee Reviews, Fees, and Fee Waivers

EOIR Acting Director Sirce Owen issued Policy Memorandum (PM) 25-12 rescinding and canceling the 6/7/21 PM 21-24 and reinstating the 12/18/20 PM 21-10, entitled “Fees,” which memorialized and updated EOIR policy regarding biennial fee reviews, fees, and fee waivers.

1/30/25 AILA Doc. No. 25013107. Asylum & Refugees, Removal & Relief
Federal Agencies, FR Regulations & Notices

Executive Order on the Military Prioritizing U.S. Border Security

On 1/20/25, President Trump issued Executive Order (EO) 14167, which calls on DOD to assign USNORTHCOM the mission of sealing U.S. borders by repelling unlawful mass migration, narcotics trafficking, human smuggling and trafficking, and other criminal activities. (90 FR 8613, 1/30/25)

1/30/25 AILA Doc. No. 25012106. Admissions & Border
Federal Agencies, FR Regulations & Notices

Executive Order on Women and Gender

On 1/20/25, President Trump issued Executive Order (EO) 14168, “Defending Women from Gender Ideology Extremism and Restoring Biological Truth to the Federal Government,” stating among other things that it is U.S. policy to recognize two sexes, male and female. (90 FR 8615, 1/30/25)

1/30/25 AILA Doc. No. 25021305. Admissions & Border
Federal Agencies, FR Regulations & Notices

Executive Order on America First Policy Directive to the Secretary of State

On 1/20/25, President Trump issued Executive Order (EO) 14150, which requires the Secretary of State to issue guidance bringing the Department of State’s (DOS) policies, programs, personnel, and operations in line with an America First foreign policy. (90 FR 8337, 1/29/25)

1/29/25 AILA Doc. No. 25012109.
Federal Agencies, FR Regulations & Notices

Presidential Proclamation Declaring a National Emergency at the U.S. Southern Border

On 1/20/25, President Trump issued Proclamation 10886 declaring a national emergency at the southern border of the United States. (90 FR 8327, 1/29/25)

1/29/25 AILA Doc. No. 25012032. Admissions & Border, Asylum & Refugees
Federal Agencies, FR Regulations & Notices

Executive Order on Birthright Citizenship

On 1/20/25, President Trump issued Executive Order (EO) 14160 denying citizenship to certain persons, including those born from a mother who was unlawfully present in the United States and the father was not a U.S. citizen or LPR at the time of said person’s birth. (90 FR 8449, 1/29/25)

1/29/25 AILA Doc. No. 25012131. Naturalization & Citizenship
Federal Agencies, AILA Announcements

EOIR Reinstates Memo with Guidelines for Immigration Court Cases Involving Juveniles

EOIR Acting Director Sirce Owen issued Policy Memorandum (PM) 25-10 rescinding and canceling the 12/21/23 Director’s Memorandum (DM) 24-01 and reinstating the 12/20/17 Operating Policies and Procedures Memorandum (OPPM) 17-03 with guidelines for immigration court cases involving juveniles.

1/29/25 AILA Doc. No. 25013167. Humanitarian Parole, Removal & Relief, Unaccompanied Children
Federal Agencies, FR Regulations & Notices

Presidential Proclamation Suspending Entry at the Southern Border

On 1/20/25, President Trump issued Proclamation 10888, which identifies asylum seekers seeking entry at the southern border as an “invasion” against which the states need “protection,” and suspends physical entry until the president determines that the “invasion” has ended. (90 FR 8333, 1/29/25)

1/29/25 AILA Doc. No. 25012110. Admissions & Border, Asylum & Refugees
Federal Agencies, FR Regulations & Notices

Executive Order on Enforcement of U.S. Immigration Laws

On 1/20/25, President Trump issued Executive Order (EO) 14159, which revokes proclamations from President Biden on enforcement, border processing, and family reunification, among others. (90 FR 8443, 1/29/25)

Federal Agencies, Agency Memos & Announcements

Presidential Memo on Expanding Detention Center at Guantanamo Bay to Full Capacity

President Trump issued a memo on expanding the Migrant Operations Center at Naval Station Guantanamo Bay to full capacity to “provide additional detention space for high-priority criminal aliens unlawfully present in the United States.”

1/29/25 AILA Doc. No. 25013109. Detention & Bond, Removal & Relief
Federal Agencies, Agency Memos & Announcements

EOIR Rescinds Policy Memo on Updated Terminology Regarding Noncitizens

EOIR Acting Director Sirce Owen issued Policy Memorandum (PM) 25-07, which rescinds and cancels the 7/23/21 PM 21-27 that had updated the agency’s use of terminology regarding noncitizens and had directed the agency not to use terms like “alien,” “unaccompanied alien,” or “illegal alien.”

1/29/25 AILA Doc. No. 25013163.
Federal Agencies, FR Regulations & Notices

Executive Order Designating Cartels and Other Organizations as Foreign Terrorist Organizations and Specially Designated Global Terrorists

On 1/20/25, President Trump issued Executive Order (EO) 14157, which orders the Attorney General and DHS Secretary within 14 days of the order to take all appropriate action, in consultation with the Secretary of State, to make operational preparations regarding implementation. (90 FR 8439, 1/29/25)

1/29/25 AILA Doc. No. 25012007. Admissions & Border, Consular Processing
Federal Agencies, Agency Memos & Announcements

EOIR Reinstates Policy Memo on Pro Bono Legal Services

EOIR Acting Director Sirce Owen issued Policy Memorandum (PM) 25-08, which rescinds and cancels the 11/5/21 Director’s Memorandum (DM) 22-01 and reinstates the 12/10/20 PM 21-08 that consolidated and updated EOIR policies related to pro bono legal services.

1/29/25 AILA Doc. No. 25013164. Removal & Relief
Federal Agencies, Agency Memos & Announcements

EOIR Rescinds Memo with Guidance on DHS Enforcement Priorities and Prosecutorial Discretion

EOIR Acting Director Sirce Owen issued Policy Memorandum (PM) 25-09, which states that it is rescinding and canceling the 6/11/21 PM 21-25 that provided EOIR policies regarding the effect of DHS enforcement priorities and the use of prosecutorial discretion.

Federal Agencies, Agency Memos & Announcements

DHS Announcement on President Trump Signing Laken Riley Act into Law

DHS announcement that on 1/29/25 President Trump signed into law the Laken Riley Act, which mandates the federal detention of undocumented individuals who are accused of theft, burglary, assaulting a law enforcement officer, and any crime that causes death or serious bodily injury.

1/29/25 AILA Doc. No. 25013004. Crimes, Detention & Bond
Federal Agencies, Agency Memos & Announcements

EOIR Rescinds and Cancels OPPM on Enforcement Actions in or near OCIJ Space

EOIR Acting Director Sirce Owen issued Policy Memorandum (PM) 25-06, “Cancellation of Operating Policies and Procedures Memorandum 23-01,” which rescinds and cancels the 12/11/23 OPPM providing guidance on DHS enforcement actions in or near Office of the Chief Immigration Judge (OCIJ) space.

1/28/25 AILA Doc. No. 25012909. Removal & Relief
Federal Agencies, Agency Memos & Announcements

USCIS Pauses Acceptance of Form I-134A

USCIS announced that it is pausing acceptance of Form I-134A, Online Request to be a Supporter and Declaration of Financial Support, until it reviews all categorical parole processes, as required by the 1/20/25 Executive Order (EO) entitled “Securing Our Borders.”

1/28/25 AILA Doc. No. 25012803. Humanitarian Parole
Agency Memos & Announcements

Presidential Memo Announcing Regulatory Freeze Pending Review

Presidential memo to the heads of executive departments and agencies ordering certain actions, including not to propose or issue any rule until a department or agency head appointed or designated by President Trump after noon on 1/20/25 has reviewed and approved it. (90 FR 8249, 1/28/25)

1/28/25 AILA Doc. No. 25012910.
FR Regulations & Notices

Executive Order Rescinding Certain EOs and Actions from the Biden Administration

Executive Order (EO) issued on 1/20/25 rescinding and revoking a number of EOs and actions from the Biden Administration, including certain EOs related to the COVID-19 pandemic, access to voting, climate change, and civil immigration enforcement policies and priorities. (90 FR 8237, 1/28/25)

1/28/25 AILA Doc. No. 25012005.
Federal Agencies, Agency Memos & Announcements

EOIR Rescinds and Cancels Policy Memo on Migrant Protection Protocols and Motions to Reopen

EOIR Acting Director Sirce Owen issued Policy Memorandum (PM) 25-05, “Cancellation of Policy Memorandum 21-26,” rescinding and canceling the 6/24/21 PM 21-26, “Migrant Protection Protocols and Motions to Reopen,” which addressed EOIR-related aspects of the Migrant Protection Protocols (MPP).

1/27/25 AILA Doc. No. 25012906. Admissions & Border, Asylum & Refugees
Federal Agencies, Agency Memos & Announcements

EOIR Rescinds and Cancels Director’s Memorandum on EOIR’s Response to COVID-19

EOIR Acting Director Sirce Owen issued Policy Memorandum (PM) 25-03, “Cancellation of Director’s Memorandum 22-02,” which rescinds and cancels the 11/8/21 Director’s Memorandum (DM) 22-02, “Updated Guidance on EOIR’s Response to the COVID-19 Outbreak.”

1/27/25 AILA Doc. No. 25012905.
Federal Agencies, Agency Memos & Announcements

EOIR Rescinds Policy Memorandum That Rescinded and Canceled Policy Memo on Case Processing at the BIA

EOIR Acting Director Sirce Owen issued a policy memo that rescinds and cancels Policy Memorandum (PM) 21-16, which had rescinded and canceled the 10/1/19 PM 20-01 entitled “Case Processing at the Board of Immigration Appeals.” The memo notes that PM 20-01 remains rescinded and canceled.

1/27/25 AILA Doc. No. 25012801.
Federal Agencies, Agency Memos & Announcements

EOIR Issues Policy Memo on EOIR’s Core Policy Values

EOIR Acting Director Sirce Owen issued Policy Memorandum (PM) 25-02, “EOIR’s Core Policy Values,” providing general guidance regarding EOIR’s foundational values for formulating policies. It also addresses “specific situations which have undermined or contradicted those values in recent years.”

1/27/25 AILA Doc. No. 25012904.
Federal Agencies, Agency Memos & Announcements

ICE Releases Statement on “Enhanced Targeted Operations” in Chicago

ICE issued a short statement that it, along with federal partners, including the FBI, ATF, DEA, CBP, and the U.S. Marshals Service, began conducting “enhanced targeted operations” on 1/26/25 in Chicago to “enforce U.S. immigration law and preserve public safety and national security.”

1/26/25 AILA Doc. No. 25012709. Removal & Relief
Federal Agencies, Agency Memos & Announcements

DHS Announces Confirmation of Kristi Noem as DHS Secretary

DHS announcement that the Senate voted on 1/25/25 to confirm Kristi Noem as the 8th Secretary of DHS, by a vote of 59 to 34. Prior to her confirmation as Secretary of DHS, Secretary Noem served as the Governor of South Dakota.

1/25/25 AILA Doc. No. 25012701.
FR Regulations & Notices

DHS Notice Designating Noncitizens for Expedited Removal

DHS notice titled “Designating Aliens for Expedited Removal” rescinding a prior 3/21/22 notice and restoring the scope of expedited removal to the fullest extent authorized by Congress. The designation is effective as of 6:00pm (ET) on 1/21/25. (90 FR 8139, 1/24/25)

1/24/25 AILA Doc. No. 25012462. Admissions & Border, Expedited Removal
Federal Agencies, Agency Memos & Announcements

Acting DHS Secretary Issues Finding of “Mass Influx of Aliens”

Acting DHS Secretary issued a finding, among other things, that “an actual or imminent mass influx of aliens is arriving at the southern border” and “presents urgent circumstances requiring an immediate federal response.” This finding is effective immediately and expires in 60 days, unless extended.

1/23/25 AILA Doc. No. 25012403. Admissions & Border, Removal & Relief
Federal Agencies, Agency Memos & Announcements

DHS Issues Guidance on How to Exercise Enforcement Discretion

Acting DHS Secretary Benjamine Huffman issued a memo to ICE, CBP, and USCIS titled, “Guidance Regarding How to Exercise Enforcement Discretion” that outlines how to exercise enforcement discretion in implementing two new policies.

Federal Agencies, Agency Memos & Announcements

DHS Issues Statement on Directive Expanding Immigration Law Enforcement to Some DOJ Officials

DHS announced that on 1/23/25 Acting DHS Secretary Benjamine Huffman issued a directive giving DOJ law enforcement officials in the U.S. Marshals, DEA, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and the Federal Bureau of Prisons “authority to investigate and apprehend illegal aliens.”

1/23/25 AILA Doc. No. 25012468. Removal & Relief
Federal Agencies, Agency Memos & Announcements

USCIS Waives COVID-19 Vaccination Requirement for Adjustment of Status Applicants

USCIS announced that, effective 1/22/25, it is waiving any and all requirements that applicants for adjustment of status to that of a lawful permanent resident (LPR) present documentation on their Form I-693 that they received the COVID-19 vaccination.

1/22/25 AILA Doc. No. 25012300. Adjustment of Status
Federal Agencies, Agency Memos & Announcements

DHS Reinstates Migrant Protection Protocols

DHS announced that it is restarting the Migrant Protection Protocols (MPP) immediately, stating that “the situation at the border has changed and the facts on the ground are favorable to resuming implementation of the 2019 MPP Policy.”

Federal Agencies, Agency Memos & Announcements

DOJ Issues Memo on Interim Policy Changes Regarding Charging, Sentencing, and Immigration Enforcement

Acting Deputy Attorney General Emil Bove issued a memo for all DOJ employees regarding interim decisions and policy changes pending confirmation of the Attorney General.

1/21/25 AILA Doc. No. 25012912.
Federal Agencies, Agency Memos & Announcements

ICE Issues Memo Providing Interim Guidance on Civil Immigration Enforcement Actions in or near Courthouses

Acting ICE Director Caleb Vitello issued a memo (ICE Directive 11072.3) providing interim guidance on civil immigration enforcement actions in or near courthouses. The guidance is effective immediately and remains in effect until superseded.

1/21/25 AILA Doc. No. 25012304. Removal & Relief
Federal Agencies, Agency Memos & Announcements

DHS Rescinds Guidelines for Enforcement Actions in or near Protected Areas and Issues Directive on Humanitarian Parole

DHS announced that on 1/20/25 Acting DHS Secretary Benjamine Huffman issued two directives, the first rescinding prior guidelines for ICE and CBP enforcement in or near protected areas, and the second ending “the broad abuse of humanitarian parole” and returning the program to a case-by-case basis.

1/21/25 AILA Doc. No. 25012466. Admissions & Border, Humanitarian Parole, Removal & Relief
Federal Agencies, Agency Memos & Announcements

CBP Announces Removal of Scheduling Functionality in CBP One App

CBP announced removal of the scheduling functionality within the CBP One mobile application, effective 1/20/25, at 12:00pm (ET). Previously, noncitizens were able to submit advanced information and schedule appointments at eight southwest border ports of entry. All appointments have been cancelled.

1/21/25 AILA Doc. No. 25012203. Admissions & Border, Asylum & Refugees
Federal Agencies, Agency Memos & Announcements

ICE Issues Memo on Terminology for Communications Materials and Internal and External Communications

ICE Acting Director Caleb Vitello issued a memo, “Terminology for Communications Materials and Internal and External Communications,” that supersedes and rescinds a 4/19/21 memo and directs ICE employees to use the lexicon consistent with the INA and the language historically used by the agency.

1/21/25 AILA Doc. No. 25012305. Admissions & Border
Federal Agencies, Agency Memos & Announcements

President Trump's America First Priorities Announced

The Trump Administration has released it's first set of priorities, among them, the "Make America Safe Again," which include immigration-related priorities. Among these are, reinstating Remain in Mexico policies and deportation operations, among others.

1/20/25 AILA Doc. No. 25012003. Asylum & Refugees, Removal & Relief
Federal Agencies, Agency Memos & Announcements

Executive Order on Gender Identity on All Government Office and Identity Documents

This EO aims to revert policies on gender identity across all aspects of the government, including by no longer allowing an individual to select their gender identity on government issued documents such as passports, visas, and Global Entry cards.