Current Policies (2025–2026)
Last updated: 2025-2026
⚠️ Important notice
- •Immigration policy changed significantly in January 2025.
- •Always verify current rules at uscis.gov or with a licensed attorney.
- •This page explains what changed and what it means for you.
The information in this section reflects policies under the current administration that took office in January 2025. Many policies changed significantly from the previous administration. Always verify current rules with a licensed immigration attorney or at uscis.gov.
Enforcement Policy Changes
The current administration has significantly expanded immigration enforcement since January 2025. Here is what has changed and what it means for you.
1. Expanded Interior Enforcement
What changed:
ICE has significantly increased arrests inside the United States — not just near the border. ICE is now conducting more operations in cities, neighborhoods, workplaces, and public spaces.
What it means for you:
Immigrants in cities far from the border — including "sanctuary" cities — now face increased risk of ICE enforcement operations. Knowing your rights (see the ICE section) is more important than ever.
2. Removal of 'Sensitive Location' Protections
What changed:
A previous policy that generally prevented ICE from conducting arrests near sensitive locations — including schools, churches, hospitals, and playgrounds — was reversed in January 2025.
What it means for you:
There is no longer a guaranteed safe zone around churches, schools, or hospitals. ICE can now legally conduct enforcement operations near these locations. This does NOT mean ICE is specifically targeting schools or churches, but the legal protection is gone.
3. Expanded Expedited Removal
What changed:
Expedited removal allows deportation without a full immigration court hearing. The current administration expanded this to apply to people who have been in the U.S. for a longer period and who are found further from the border.
What it means for you:
More people are now at risk of being deported quickly without seeing an immigration judge. If ICE tries to use expedited removal on you, immediately say: "I am afraid to return to my country" (if true) and "I want a lawyer." This can stop expedited removal and get you a hearing.
4. End of CBP One App and Humanitarian Parole Programs
What changed:
The CBP One app, which allowed people to schedule appointments to request entry at the border, was shut down in January 2025. Humanitarian parole programs that allowed nationals of Cuba, Haiti, Nicaragua, and Venezuela (CHNV) to enter the U.S. legally were also ended. People already in the U.S. under these programs had their parole terminated.
What it means for you:
People who entered under CHNV parole and whose parole was terminated may now be considered unlawfully present. Those in this situation should consult an immigration lawyer immediately to understand their options. People who were in the middle of applying through CBP One no longer have that option.
5. Changes to DACA
What changed:
DACA (Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals) has faced ongoing legal challenges. Courts have ruled differently in different states, creating uncertainty. As of 2025-2026, USCIS has been partially blocked from processing new DACA applications, and renewals face ongoing legal uncertainty.
What it means for you:
If you are a DACA recipient, renew as early as possible (USCIS recommends renewing 150–120 days before expiration). Consult an immigration lawyer about your options. If you qualify for any other immigration benefit (such as through marriage or employment), explore those pathways as a backup.
6. Increased 287(g) Partnerships with Local Police
What changed:
The current administration has expanded the 287(g) program, which allows local police departments to perform immigration enforcement functions. More counties and cities are now part of this program than in previous years.
What it means for you:
In more places across the U.S., a routine traffic stop or arrest by local police can now lead to immigration consequences. Know whether your area has a 287(g) agreement.
7. Heightened 'Public Charge' Scrutiny
What changed:
The government is more carefully reviewing whether green card applicants are likely to depend on government assistance. The consideration of a wider range of public benefits in the public charge analysis has been reemphasized.
What it means for you:
If you are applying for a green card, be cautious about which government benefits you use. Talk to an immigration lawyer about the public charge rule before applying for any government assistance if you are in the process of getting a green card.
8. Invocation of Alien Enemies Act
What changed:
The current administration invoked the Alien Enemies Act of 1798 to attempt to deport certain people. Courts have issued rulings blocking or limiting these deportations, and legal challenges are ongoing as of 2025–2026.
What it means for you:
This is an area of active legal change. The courts are still deciding the extent of this power. If you receive any notice related to this or believe you could be affected, contact an immigration lawyer immediately.