Immigration Updates For March 2025

On March 13, 2025, the U.S. District Court for the District of Maryland issued a Temporary Restraining Order in Maryland, et al v. United States Dep’t of Agriculture, et al, No. 25-cv-00748, Docket No. 43 (D. Md.) reinstating certain USCIS employees who were terminated on February 14, 2025. Reinstated employees have been placed on administrative leave, a paid non-duty status, and their pay and benefits have resumed.

USCIS contacted affected individuals, but has announced that those who believe they qualify and have not been notified should email uscis-ochco@uscis.dhs.gov with their full name, employment dates, an identifying detail (such as date of birth or Social Security number), and, if available, their termination notice and noted that employees who do not wish to be reinstated must submit a written statement declining reinstatement. The USCIS news alert is available here.

USCIS announced on March 26, 2025, that it reached the H-2B visa cap for the second half of FY2025. March 5, 2025, was the final receipt date for cap-subject H-2B petitions requesting employment between April 1 and September 30, 2025. USCIS announced that any new petitions received after this date will be rejected. Filing dates for supplemental H-2B visas are now available. Employers can refer to the Temporary Increase in H-2B Nonimmigrant Visas for FY 2025 for details on available visas and filing deadlines.

For more information, visit the USCIS website.

On March 13, 2025 U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) announced that it will close several soft-sided processing facilities along the southwest border due to a significant decline in border apprehensions, following President Trump’s executive orders in January 2025. The closures, which will save up to $30 million per month, include facilities in Donna, North Eagle Pass, and Laredo, Texas, as well as in Yuma and Tucson, Arizona. CBP’s permanent facilities will now manage detainees, allowing agents to focus on primary enforcement duties. Nationwide apprehensions dropped to record lows, averaging 330 per day in February, with southwest border apprehensions falling below 300 per day. CBP has said that it will continue to provide necessary support for in-custody individuals while adjusting resources as needed. This was released in the CBP’s website here.

U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) launched an enhanced version of the CBP Home mobile app, featuring a new “Intent to Depart” tool. An announcement issued on March 10, 2025 noted that the application allows individuals unlawfully present in the U.S. or those whose parole has been revoked to voluntarily notify the U.S. government of their intent to depart, in compliance with Executive Order 14159. CBP Home app is expected to simplify CBP processes, improve security, and reduce administrative burdens for travelers, businesses, and stakeholders. Key features include I-94 applications, inspection appointments, border wait times, and bus manifests. The app is available for free on Apple and Android devices via the App Store and Google Play. The announcement is available here.

On March 15, 2025, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has launched a global ad campaign urging illegal aliens to leave the U.S. voluntarily or face deportation. The campaign, running across radio, TV, and digital platforms, warns potential violators that they will be found and removed. Secretary Kristi Noem emphasized that criminals are not welcome and reinforced President Trump’s commitment to securing the border. This ad is available here.

On March 10, 2025, Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem announced the launch of the CBP Home app, featuring a self-deportation reporting option for illegal aliens. This new feature allows individuals to voluntarily report their intent to depart the U.S., saving law enforcement resources and taxpayer dollars. The app, part of a broader $200 million campaign to encourage illegal aliens to leave, will automatically update all CBP One applications and is available for free on mobile platforms. Secretary Noem emphasized, “This app restores integrity to our immigration system and offers a chance for voluntary departure. If they don’t leave, we will find them and deport them.”. For more information visit DHS website.

On March 7, 2025, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) announced that it is ending collective bargaining for Transportation Security Administration’s (TSA) officers, aiming to improve safety and operational efficiency. DHS’ decision aims to remove bureaucratic delays, increase workforce agility, and ensure merit-based performance for TSA officers. The move addresses concerns about officers being tied up in union activities rather than performing screening duties, enhancing the security of U.S. transportation systems. The announcement is available here.

In its announcement dated March 11, 2025, the Center for Diseases Control (CDC) has removed the COVID-19 vaccination requirement for immigrant visa applicants, effective March 11, 2025. Panel physicians will no longer consider a lack of vaccination as a reason for ineligibility for travel. U.S. embassies and consulates will no longer deny immigrant visa applications based on missing COVID-19 vaccination documentation. Applicants whose medical exams are still valid but were previously rejected due to this requirement can request a new exam without a fee. The Department of State’s announcement is available here.

On March 14, 2025, the Department of State announced its resumption of processing Form I-730s for Follow-to-Join refugee applicants and family members of refugees already in the U.S., in accordance with the preliminary injunction in Pacito v. Trump. The Department will reach out to beneficiaries whose appointments were canceled to reschedule them and will continue processing applications for those who have already been interviewed. Beneficiaries must have a sponsor to cover medical exams and travel expenses. For more information visit DOS’ website.