Trump’s Immigration Agenda: What’s On The Horizon for 2025? 

On November 5, 2024, Donald J. Trump was elected the 47th President of the United States. His victory marks a significant moment in American politics, with anticipated new directions and policies under his administration. However, immigrants are bracing for his administration’s promised aggressive policies around immigration, including mass deportations.  

Many immigrants and their families, along with advocates and communities, are worried about what a renewed Trump administration could mean for their future in the U.S. 

Whether you’re directly affected or simply concerned about the direction of U.S. immigration policy, here’s what you need to know about Trump’s new presidency and the impact it may have. 

1. Mass Deportation Plans 

The administration plans to prioritize mass deportations, utilizing local law enforcement, the National Guard, and the military to increase enforcement. By withholding federal funds, cities with sanctuary policies might face pressure to comply with federal immigration objectives. To better understand these plans, it’s helpful to distinguish between interior and exterior enforcement: 

• Interior Enforcement: Deportations of individuals already within U.S. borders will likely be a lengthy and challenging process. Those individuals have constitutional rights to due process, often requiring a prolonged court procedure before any removal. 

• Exterior Enforcement: In contrast, enforcement at the border is expected to be rapid. Those detained upon arrival are subject to expedited removal, streamlining the deportation process for recent entrants. 

Resources and funding will be redirected to agencies like DHS and ICE to bolster this mass deportation agenda, while an increase in border patrol agents and immigration law enforcement is anticipated.  

At McBean Law, we provide legal options for clients who are facing the threat of deportation. Speak with one of our experienced immigration attorneys about your situation and possible options to remain in the United States.  

 2. More Workplace Raids 

Workplace raids are back on the table, particularly targeting large employers of migrant workers. These raids are part of an effort to ostensibly make jobs more available to U.S. citizens. However, it is widely acknowledged that many of these jobs are often unappealing to the domestic workforce. Still, these actions may be taken to project a tough stance on immigration and reinforce the administration’s message. 

3. Impact on Legal Immigration 

Legal immigration is likely to see some significant changes, primarily through: 

• Ending Temporary Protected Status (TPS): There is a focus on rescinding TPS, a program that provides temporary legal status to nationals from certain countries facing crises, such as Haiti and Venezuela. Attempts to do so were met with challenges during the previous administration, but TPS elimination is a clear objective.

McBean Law immigration attorneys help clients understand their legal options, such as TPS. Contact us today to speak with an immigration lawyer on your side.   

4. Border Policy & “Remain in Mexico” 

Plans are in place to reinstate the “Remain in Mexico” policy, which requires asylum seekers to stay in Mexico while their cases are processed in the U.S. While Title 42 may no longer be used to enforce this policy, an executive order could be implemented to achieve similar outcomes. This policy primarily impacts those waiting outside the U.S., so the effect on individuals within U.S. borders may be minimal. 

5. Travel Bans 

Expect travel bans to resurface, particularly targeting Muslim-majority countries on national security grounds. These bans, which restrict entry from certain regions, have faced legal challenges in the past and will likely be litigated once again if they are reinstated. This would affect families and individuals attempting to enter the U.S. from restricted countries. 

An immigration lawyer’s expertise is necessary when navigating legal obstacles and understanding your rights. 

6. Expanding the Border Wall 

Although the impact may not be immediately felt, the administration is expected to push for continued construction of the border wall. The extent to which this will proceed depends on funding from Congress.  

7. Ending Birthright Citizenship 

There are plans to end birthright citizenship through an executive order. This would mean that only children born to U.S. citizens or green card holders would be granted U.S. citizenship at birth. This change would likely face constitutional challenges, potentially reaching the Supreme Court. 

Potential Legal Battles & Immigration System Adjustments 

Beyond the formal agenda, here are some additional potential changes worth noting: 

• Prosecutorial Discretion: During the previous administration, policies that allowed individuals to negotiate immigration outcomes were ended. The same approach could return, potentially eliminating options for those in removal proceedings to settle their cases. 

• Delays in USCIS Processing: USCIS, responsible for processing visa applications, could face policy changes leading to slower processing. Interview waivers, which have reduced processing times, might be limited or eliminated. 

• International Students and Foreign Workers: International students and foreign workers may also be targeted. Policies like OPT (Optional Practical Training) for students could be limited, reducing post-graduation work opportunities. Additionally, H-1B visa holders may face stricter wage requirements, potentially pricing foreign talent out of the market. 

• Parole in Place: This policy, which allows undocumented spouses of U.S. citizens to remain in the U.S., could be halted. 

• Slower Processing at U.S. Embassies: Global delays in processing at U.S. embassies could be enforced, slowing down visa issuance internationally. 

To dive deeper into the potential impacts of Trump’s policies, watch our update on McBean Immigration TV. In this video, we break down Trump’s immigration agenda and what it could mean for immigrants, their families, and the legal landscape in the U.S. 

Watch the video here 

What Can You Do? 

Given these potential changes, now may be an essential time for immigrants to take proactive steps, consult with an experienced immigration attorney, and understand options for legal protection. With ongoing and anticipated policy shifts, staying informed and prepared can be crucial for those seeking to secure their status or maintain stability within the U.S. 

Work with an Immigration Law Lawyer 

Navigating immigration law requires attention to detail. If you’re facing doubts from immigration officers or want to ensure your case is as strong as possible, consider working with an experienced immigration attorney. At McBean Law, we’re committed to helping clients achieve their immigration goals. Let us help you build a strong case that stands up to scrutiny and moves you closer to your American dream. 

Don’t let doubts derail your immigration journey. Reach out to a qualified immigration lawyer today and take the first step toward resolving your immigration concerns with confidence. 

LaToya McBean Pompy immigrated to the United States herself. Her experience sparked an interest in helping many families unite in the U.S. by founding McBean Law. If you need help with your or a loved one’s visa, contact us here or call us today at (914) 898-9488 to schedule a private consultation with LaToya and her team of immigration attorneys, who are here to help you. 

Additionally, you can watch us on YouTube and TikTok, follow us on Facebook and Instagram, and subscribe to our newsletter.