International Law and Immigration
Immigration Updates For May 2025
A monthly publication of the International Law and Immigration Section of the California Lawyers Association.
- Editor-in-Chief: Radhika Balaji
- Contributions by Anitha Thamizharasan
Romania Removed from U.S. Visa Waiver Program
On May 2, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has rescinded Romania’s Visa Waiver Program (VWP) designation, effective immediately. Originally approved in January 2025, the decision was reversed after a DHS review raised security concerns. The U.S. emphasized the need to uphold strict border and immigration security standards. Romania may reapply if it meets the eligibility criteria in the future. See DHS announcement here.
TPS for South Sudan Automatically Extended Through November 3, 2025
On May 6, due to no decision by the March 4, 2025, deadline, the U.S. has automatically extended Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for South Sudan for 6 months, fromMay 4 to November 3, 2025. Employment Authorization Documents (EADs) expiring May 3, 2025, or November 3, 2023, are automatically valid through November 3, 2025. No additional documentation is required. See US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) alerts here.
TSA Starts Enforcing REAL ID at Airports Nationwide
On May 7, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has begun full enforcement of REAL ID requirements at airport checkpoints across the U.S., according to the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). Travelers without a REAL ID or acceptable alternative will face additional screening. The move aims to enhance identity verification and combat fraud and security threats, though 81% of travelers are already compliant. Wait times are not expected to be affected. See DHS’s detailed press release here.
DHS to End TPS Designation for Afghanistan by July 14, 2025
On May 12, 2025, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) announced it will end Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Afghanistan. The current designation expires on May 20, 2025, with termination taking effect on July 14, 2025.
Secretary Kristi Noem stated the decision follows an interagency review which found improved security and economic conditions in Afghanistan. She noted the program is returning to its temporary purpose and cited national interest concerns, including instances of fraud and public safety risks among some TPS recipients. A full explanation will be published in the Federal Register. See the Federal Register update here in the USCIS announcement.
President Trump Launches ‘Project Homecoming’ to Expedite Voluntary Departures of Illegal Immigrants
On May 13, President Trump has announced Project Homecoming, a new federal initiative offering free flights and financial incentives to encourage illegal immigrants to voluntarily leave the U.S. The program includes a mobile app (CBP Home), a concierge departure service, and an “exit bonus” for those who comply. Those who choose to stay will face steep penalties, including deportation, fines, asset seizure, and increased enforcement with 20,000 additional officers. See the Federal Register order made by the President.
U.S. Extends North Korea Travel Ban to August 2026
On May 14, the State Department has extended the ban on using U.S. passports for travel to, in, or through North Korea until August 31, 2026. The restriction, first imposed in 2017, remains in place unless specially authorized. See the Notice announcement made by the State Department here.
U.S. Supreme Court Temporarily Blocks Lower Court Order on Venezuela TPS Termination
On May 19, 2025, the U.S. Supreme Court issued an 8-1 emergency stay blocking a lower court’s March 31 order in National TPS Alliance, et al., v. Kristi Noem et al., No. 3:25-cv-01766 (N.D. Cal. Mar. 31, 2025), that challenged the termination of Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Venezuela. This stay pauses the district court’s ruling while the government appeals to the Ninth Circuit. TPS under the 2021 designation for Venezuela remains valid until September 10, 2025. Further updates will be provided as the case develops. See the latest USCIS alert here.
USCIS Enhances SAVE Program to Strengthen Voter Eligibility Checks
On May 22, 2025, USCIS has upgraded its Systematic Alien Verification for Entitlements (SAVE) program to give state and local governments more efficient tools for verifying U.S. citizenship and immigration status. These enhancements include the ability to use Social Security numbers to confirm citizenship and submit multiple verification cases at once.
The update is aimed at helping prevent noncitizens from registering to vote and supports Executive Order 14248 on election integrity. The improvements follow collaboration with the Social Security Administration and are part of broader federal efforts to bolster trust in the electoral process. USCIS has also waived all SAVE-related fees for state, local, tribal, and territorial agencies as of April 1, 2025.See the latest order in the Federal Register.