Since Donald Trump got re-elected for president to serve for four more years, our office has received multiple calls from both current and prospective clients asking about what is going to happen with immigration processes. Here, we are planning on providing our thoughts and expectations on the matter.

While it’s difficult to predict every detail, particularly considering the evolving political and legal landscape, it’s likely that the core structure of both family-based and employment-based immigration processes will remain largely unchanged. However, certain aspects of immigration, particularly humanitarian processes like asylum and deportation defense, are expected to see more direct influence from the Trump administration.

In the realm of family-based and employment-based immigration, major overhauls are unlikely. These processes through which U.S. citizens and permanent residents can sponsor relatives or employers can sponsor workers are deeply ingrained in the U.S. immigration system. While we may see some changes in the form of updated immigration forms, adjustments in processing times, or changes to application procedures, the broad framework for these visa categories is likely to stay consistent. The Trump administration has historically prioritized reducing immigration levels, but these core categories have remained central to U.S. immigration policy.

One area where we do expect to see significant changes is in humanitarian immigration, particularly around asylum and deportation defense. Under the Trump administration’s first term, immigration courts and asylum processes saw major shifts, and these are likely to continue. U.S. immigration courts are part of the executive branch and fall directly under the influence of the president. The Trump administration has previously made moves to limit asylum claims, tighten refugee vetting procedures, and expedite deportation proceedings.

In a second term, we can anticipate even stricter enforcement of immigration laws. The administration is likely to continue efforts to reduce asylum applications and streamline deportation processes, possibly including more stringent standards for asylum eligibility. Changes could include limiting access to asylum hearings or accelerating the deportation of individuals who do not qualify for protection. The ongoing debate around "catch-and-release" policies and border security could also play a key role in shaping these processes.

While family-based and employment-based immigration processes may remain relatively stable during another term of Trump’s presidency, humanitarian immigration is expected to experience more significant shifts. This shift reflects the ongoing tension between enforcement and human rights that has characterized the current administration's approach to immigration.

Do you want to learn more about this matter, call our office at (915) 314-2363 to schedule a consultation today!