As of February 2025, the United States has undergone significant shifts in immigration policy following President Donald Trump’s inauguration in January. Here are some changes that reflect a return to stricter enforcement measures and a departure from the previous administration’s approaches:
Suspension of Asylum Appointments
One of the immediate actions taken by the Trump administration was suspending the CBP One app, a tool previously used to schedule appointments for migrants and asylum seekers. This move canceled approximately 30,000 existing appointments, leaving many individuals in legal uncertainty. The Guardian
Declaration of National Emergency and Military Involvement
President Trump declared a national emergency at the southern border, authorizing the deployment of military forces to control immigration. This action underscores the administration’s commitment to strict border security measures. The Guardian
Reinstatement of the “Remain in Mexico” Policy
The administration has reinstated the “Remain in Mexico” policy, requiring asylum seekers to stay in Mexico while their U.S. immigration cases are processed. This policy aims to deter illegal crossings and manage the influx of migrants. The Guardian
Suspension of the U.S. Refugee Admissions Program
Amid a global refugee crisis, the U.S. Refugee Admissions Program has been suspended, hindering the acceptance of new refugees into the country. This suspension reflects the administration’s focus on addressing domestic immigration concerns. The Guardian
Aggressive Enforcement by ICE
Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officers have adopted a more aggressive approach, targeting individuals with serious criminal records and expanding operations to include collateral arrests. The administration has also lifted bans on ICE activities in sensitive locations such as schools, churches, and hospitals, intensifying enforcement efforts. Associated Press
Economic Implications of Mass Deportation Plans
Plans for mass deportation of undocumented immigrants have raised concerns about potential economic repercussions. Experts warn that such actions could severely impact the U.S. economy, particularly in sectors heavily reliant on immigrant labor. Le Monde
