Trump’s return to office will significantly impact the U.S. immigration system. Here are 4 anticipated changes:
1. Increased Scrutiny and Enforcement for Employers
Employers should prepare for increased scrutiny on employee petitions, more Requests for Evidence (RFEs), additional site visits, and heightened enforcement activities.
2. Longer Processing Times for Applicants
Applicants should expect longer processing times as resources may be diverted from case processing. Similar delays were seen during Trump’s last term when resources shifted toward anti-immigrant initiatives.
3. Potential Denaturalization Initiatives
Naturalized U.S. citizens may face targeted initiatives, as seen in the last administration’s launch of a denaturalization unit targeting naturalized citizens.
4. Executive Orders Targeting Legal Immigration
Executive Orders restricting legal immigration may mirror past policies like the “Buy American, Hire American (BAHA)” order, which ended USCIS deference to prior extension approvals and added hurdles for H-1B workers at third-party sites.
Staying ahead of immigration changes will be crucial. Here are my recommendations to help you stay prepared:
Use Premium Processing (if Available): If you’re considering filing with Premium Processing, aim to file now to secure approval before January 20, 2025, as immediate directives could impact USCIS processing methods after this date.
Stay Ahead: While anti-immigrant campaign rhetoric doesn’t always translate into policy, it’s essential to stay vigilant, especially given policy shifts seen in the previous term.
This post is intended for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice.