RECENT U.S. IMMIGRATION LAW NEWS
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Recent changes in U.S. immigration policy are creating significant shifts for many applicants, from those seeking family-based visas to international students and asylum seekers. Here’s a brief look at some of the latest developments.
Navigating New Rules for Family-Based Visas
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has recently updated how it calculates a child’s age under the Child Status Protection Act (CSPA). Effective August 15, 2025, USCIS will use the stricter “Final Action Dates” chart from the Visa Bulletin to determine if a young immigrant can retain “child” status. This policy change replaces the more flexible “Dates for Filing” standard and could impact the eligibility of many young people who turn 21 while waiting for their green cards.
On a related note, the September 2025 Visa Bulletin brings some modest progress for family-based categories, with the F-2A category (spouses and children of permanent residents) advancing for all countries.
Increased Scrutiny for Naturalization and Visas
The government has also implemented a new policy for naturalization applicants, adding a more comprehensive “good moral character” assessment. While some offenses remain permanent bars to citizenship, officers are now directed to take a “holistic” approach that considers an applicant’s behavior, community involvement, and contributions, along with evidence of rehabilitation.
For temporary visa holders, new restrictions are being proposed, including a potential end to “duration of status” for F, J, and I visas. This change would cap the length of stay for international students, researchers, and media, requiring them to repeatedly renew their visas and adding considerable red tape and uncertainty to their stays.
Asylum and Refugee Policy in Flux
A federal judge recently denied a request to end the Flores Settlement Agreement, which has long provided protections for immigrant children in federal custody. The ruling upholds the existing standards for the care and release of detained minors.
On another front, the administration is reportedly considering a new refugee admissions target, which would be the lowest in decades. New rules are also being debated for asylum seekers and those applying for certain non-immigrant visas, with some proposals requiring visa bonds of up to $15,000 for travelers from specific countries.
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