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Dear Readers,

Welcome back to NawLaw News, where we bring you updates and announcements from the Firm, as well as the latest news in the rapidly changing U.S. immigration world. With President Trump’s second term, there’s no been no shortage of activity, including frequent policy changes and ongoing legal battles. Let’s get you caught up!

Supreme Court Lets Trump Strip Venezuelan Migrants of Protected Status for Now

The U.S. Supreme Court allowed the Trump administration to proceed with ending Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for over 300,000 Venezuelan migrants, reversing a lower court’s decision that had blocked the move. This ruling, issued without detailed explanation, enables the administration to strip legal status from many Venezuelans pending further legal proceedings. Critics, including migrant advocates and legal representatives, called the court’s brief order "shocking" due to its potential humanitarian and economic consequences. A federal judge had previously ruled that removing TPS could cause significant harm, noting the ongoing political instability and violence in Venezuela, which the U.S. State Department considers unsafe for travel. Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem cited alleged gang affiliations and burden on local governments as reasons for ending TPS, but critics argue these claims are unfounded and discriminatory. Beneficiaries and advocates emphasized the positive contributions Venezuelans make to U.S. society, highlighting their education, employment, and desire to live in safety.

US Imposes Visa Bans on India Travel Agents for Facilitating Illegal Migration

The U.S. State Department announced visa restrictions on unnamed owners and staff of India-based travel agencies accused of facilitating illegal migration to the United States. These measures are part of a broader crackdown on unauthorized immigration under President Donald Trump’s administration. The individuals targeted were identified through information gathered by the U.S. mission in India, though specific names and numbers were not disclosed. The visa bans were issued under the Immigration and Nationality Act, and officials pledged to continue penalizing those involved in smuggling networks. The U.S. Embassy in New Delhi has also warned Indian nationals not to overstay visas, emphasizing serious consequences such as deportation and permanent bans. This action reflects ongoing efforts to deter illegal migration and enforce strict immigration controls.

Federal Judge Won’t Block Trump’s Plan to Use IRS Data to Track Down Undocumented Migrants

A federal judge ruled in favor of the Trump administration, allowing a controversial data-sharing agreement between the IRS and ICE to proceed, despite challenges from immigrant-rights groups who argued it violated taxpayer confidentiality laws. The deal permits DHS to request address confirmations from the IRS for individuals suspected of defying deportation orders, though federal law generally prohibits the sharing of tax data for civil enforcement like deportation. Judge Dabney Friedrich concluded that the agreement was legally structured to comply with laws, allowing data sharing only for criminal investigations. Immigrant advocates argued that the policy is a pretext to sidestep legal restrictions and could erode trust in the IRS, especially among undocumented immigrants who have long filed taxes under assurances of confidentiality. The ruling sparked concern that it could discourage tax compliance within immigrant communities, though DHS has yet to make formal data requests under the agreement. Plaintiffs are considering an appeal, vowing to monitor the administration closely to ensure it does not misuse the exception for civil deportation purposes.

Trump Suspends Asylum System, Leaving Immigrants to Face an Uncertain Future

Under the Trump administration, asylum seekers arriving at the U.S. border from countries like Eritrea, Guatemala, and Afghanistan are increasingly denied the opportunity to present their claims, facing rapid expulsions or prolonged detention. Immigration lawyers and advocates report a confusing and opaque system, where individuals are often sent to unfamiliar countries after brief interactions with officials, with limited access to legal representation. Many are funneled into the Convention Against Torture process, which has stricter standards than traditional asylum, further reducing their chances of protection. Legal challenges to Trump’s sweeping restrictions are mounting, particularly over the administration’s controversial use of “invasion” claims to suspend asylum access—an issue pending court review. The government argues such decisions are political and not subject to judicial scrutiny, while rights groups call the move both unlawful and unprecedented. Meanwhile, illegal border crossings, which peaked early in Biden’s term, have sharply declined since Trump returned to office.

ICE Agents at Seattle Courthouse Arrest People Whose Deportation Cases are Dismissed

At the Seattle Immigration Court this week, federal immigration agents have been arresting individuals immediately after their deportation cases are dismissed by a judge. This shift follows new January guidelines that allow U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents to make courthouse arrests and expedite removal for people in the U.S. for less than two years. Immigration attorneys report at least seven arrests so far this week, raising concerns about due process and the suddenness of deportations. Attorneys like Eilish Villa Malone and Sonia Rodriguez describe a tense atmosphere, with ICE agents consistently present and acting swiftly. Arrests often occur after government attorneys move to dismiss deportation cases, and if the immigrant does not object, they may be deported within hours. Federal authorities have not commented on the policy changes despite inquiries from local media.

Harvard University Loses Student and Exchange Visitor Program Certification for Pro-Terrorist Conduct

The Department of Homeland Security, under Secretary Kristi Noem, has revoked Harvard University's Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) certification, effectively barring the institution from enrolling foreign students. This drastic measure follows Harvard’s alleged failure to provide requested information on foreign student misconduct and its refusal to address what DHS describes as a hostile and unsafe campus environment, particularly for Jewish students. The decision also stems from accusations that Harvard collaborated with the Chinese Communist Party (CCP), including hosting members of a CCP paramilitary group involved in human rights abuses. DHS cites findings from a joint-government task force and Harvard’s own internal study, both indicating widespread antisemitism and race-based discrimination on campus, with little or no institutional response. The department also points to alarming campus crime statistics and controversial DEI policies as further evidence of institutional failure. Additionally, Harvard’s financial entanglements with foreign governments and alleged military-related research collaborations with China further fueled DHS concerns, culminating in the loss of SEVP certification and the termination of previous federal funding.

Client Q&A

Q. ”What is the likelihood that if I travel to Canada to see family, etc., and upon my return, I would get stooped at the boarder for what ever reason?  I am hearing all these ridiculous stories of people being stopped for no reason.  Even those with green cards and visas. Is this really the case?  Do I need to not travel?” - a Canadian national

A. Although we have seen a dramatic increase in scrutiny at the U.S. border and ports of entry, assuming you have no serious criminal issue or have data on your phone, device, or computer that can be considered anti-American or problematic, you should be fine to travel abroad. Green card holders are always subject to inspection when seeking admission at the U.S. border and ports of entry.

Q. “Must I still be married to my U.S. citizen wife to renew my 10-year green card? Would there be any specific advantage conferred by U.S. citizenship over possession of a green card over the ten-year period covered by the card? If, for example, I should relocate to the UK, would I maintain possession of my green card and still be afforded freedom of travel between the UK and the US, as I would with dual citizenship?” - A lawful permanent resident (green card holder) from the UK who received his green card many years ago based on marriage to a U.S. citizen

A. No, the continuation of the marital relationship is not required. Having U.S. citizenship is advantageous because you need not be concerned about returning to the U.S. every 6 months to preserve your green card status. Insofar as dual citizenship is permitted by the UK, we highly recommend this alternative to simply renewing the green card every 10 years.

Q. “If I am planning to marry a U.S. citizen will it be a problem if I do so after my B-2 stay expires?” - a B-2 visitor

A. Under the current federal regulations, marriage to a U.S. citizen will forgive any time you are out of status.

Exciting Events at NawLaw: Stay Informed and Engaged!

Neil with a good friend Attorney Antonio Carlos Rolim from Brazil

Neil proudly participating in the American Heart Association Walk, supporting heart health and community wellness. ❤️👟

Congratulations to our NawLaw Clients who’ve Received their Green Cards and Work Permits! 🎉 

We’re so proud to be part of your journey and celebrate this huge milestone with you!

Here’s to new beginnings and endless opportunities!

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The Supreme Court allowed the Trump administration to end protections for 300,000+ Venezuelan migrants, aiding deportation efforts. A jud... See more

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For once I have good news: the U.S. Supreme Court blocked the Trump administration from using the Alien Enemies Act to deport Venezuelans.... See more

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