In 2025, the United States ushered in a new administration with plenty of new ideas. This administration has very different views on immigration compared to its predecessor, and it has already implemented numerous policy changes. Immigrants who wish to settle in the United States should be aware of these changes. Family-based visas have been affected, and new challenges have arisen for loved ones who want to remain together in the United States. While this situation may seem daunting, various strategies could help overcome these hurdles, especially if implemented by experienced immigration lawyers in Dallas.
The Return of the “Remain in Mexico” Policy
Known officially as the “Migrant Protection Protocols,” the “Remain in Mexico” policy returned after the arrival of the new administration. Originally initiated in 2019, this policy was paused and restarted repeatedly over the next six years, due to both incoming presidents and Supreme Court decisions. In 2025, the policy went back into effect – and it could affect families attempting to remain together in the United States while their visa applications are pending.
Although the details are complex, this could also cause families to become separated if one member travels back to Mexico and then attempts to re-enter the country. If you have experienced this issue firsthand, you might want to speak with an experienced immigration lawyer for further guidance. Some believe that the Remain in Mexico policy endangers family visa applicants, as it forces them to live in potentially dangerous border towns while waiting for their appointments at ports of entry and consulates.
The Potential End of Birthright Citizenship
One of the most controversial proposed changes brought about by the new administration is the potential end of birthright citizenship. For those who do not know, US law currently states that children born in the United States automatically become U.S. citizens, even if both their biological parents are undocumented migrants. The derogatory term “anchor baby” is often used in this context.
Parents should know that this executive order has not yet gone into effect, as numerous states have challenged it. The Supreme Court may need to determine whether it is constitutional since it appears to violate the 14th Amendment. The process of determining the constitutionality of ending birthright citizenship could take months or even years.
Note that this does not affect children with at least one parent who is a green card holder. It would only affect children of two parents who are both “undocumented.” Although the future of this executive order is not yet clear, undocumented parents may want to discuss their next steps with experienced immigration lawyers. It may make sense to pursue family-based visas rather than relying on birthright citizenship. Note that even if your child gains automatic birthright citizenship, there is no guarantee that you will also become a permanent resident or citizen as well.
The Threat of Mass Deportations
The new administration has announced plans to carry out “mass deportations” of undocumented individuals. This could significantly affect plans to pursue family-based visas. It may also separate families with “mixed status” (families with both documented and undocumented members). The threat of deportation could be much higher for family members in the United States, and those facing this threat may need to explore deportation defense strategies with experienced immigration lawyers in Texas.
The Firing of Numerous Immigration Judges Will Affect Backlogs
In late February 2025, the Texas Tribune reported that the new administration had terminated five immigration judges in the Lone Star State. This is the continuation of a trend involving the termination of numerous immigration judges throughout the country, and the fact that these judges are continuing to be fired suggests that this trend could continue long into the future.
Although this is not an immigration policy per se, it will inevitably lead to greater delays for anyone pursuing family-based visas in Texas. Families should prepare themselves for longer wait times due to fewer judges attempting to handle an extremely high backlog of cases. That said, it may be possible to speed up this process with help from an experienced immigration lawyer. Expedited processing is one option, and your lawyer can potentially minimize delays by reducing preventable errors in your application.
Stricter Requirements for Family-Based Visas
The new administration is also making eligibility requirements for family-based visas stricter. These requirements include more challenging interviews, and you may need to discuss these changes before you meet with a consular officer. You should also be aware of increased income requirements if you plan to sponsor a family member for a visa. The new administration has expressed concerns that family sponsors may not be able to financially support their relatives once they arrive – and they want to avoid these individuals turning to the state for financial support. This may require certain adjustments for lower-income families pursuing family visas in Texas.
The Future of Many of These Changes is Not Yet Clear
Although the future of immigration policies may seem daunting, it is also unclear whether any of these changes will actually manifest. Some of the proposed policy adjustments must be approved by Congress, and others face challenges in the Supreme Court. It may make sense to keep on top of these changes with help from your immigration lawyers, who are some of the most knowledgeable people in this regard. That said, certain proactive steps could be possible even as future policy changes remain unclear.
Can an Immigration Lawyer in Dallas Help Me With Family-Based Visas?
Regardless of recent policy changes, many immigration strategies remain relevant. In addition, immigration lawyers in Dallas may be able to help families develop new, innovative strategies to address new challenges. Each family’s situation is slightly different, and online research may only provide broad, basic information. For a more personalized, targeted immigration strategy, consider speaking with an experienced immigration lawyer in Dallas. During a consultation with Presti Law Firm, you may be able to address your family’s unique challenges with greater confidence. Contact us today to get started.