Biden Administration Makes Last-Minute Changes to Immigration Policies

In the final days before the arrival of the incoming administration, many last-minute changes to immigration policy are occurring. These changes are designed to provide some hope for various immigrants who may face a very different reality over the next four years. If you’re one of the many immigrants in Palm Beach County who feels anxious about the future, these changes may provide some degree of optimism.

Biden Gives Last-Minute Extensions to Hundreds of Thousands of Migrants 

In January of 2025 – just days before Trump’s inauguration – the Biden administration announced new protections for over 800,000 migrants in the United States. These include Venezuelans and Salvadorans who are already living in the country, and the extensions would allow them to remain here for 18 more months. These individuals were previously protected under Temporary Protected Status (TPS) – a program with an uncertain future.

An additional 103,000 Ukrainians and some Sudanese will also get protection under this new policy. This seems like a direct response to Trump’s “mass deportation” promises, and these 1 million individuals are seemingly untouchable until about two years into Trump’s tenure.

Romania the Newest Entry into the Visa Waiver Program 

Also on January 10th, Homeland Security announced that Romania would be the newest addition to the Visa Waiver Program (VWP). This program allows for more streamlined travel, allowing Romanian nationals to visit the United States without first obtaining a Visa. Homeland Security noted that Romania made an effort to meet various requirements in order to become part of the VWP. With this achievement, Romanians can remain in the United States for up to 90 days without first obtaining a visa. The opposite was already true for Americans visiting Romania.

Biden Set to Refund Immigrants Who Applied to Canceled Immigration Program 

At around the same time, the Biden administration promised to issue refunds to anyone who applied to a visa program that was ultimately struck down in federal court. The program seemed set to issue green cards to illegal immigrants married to US citizens. Almost 100,000 people applied, and each applicant paid a $540 fee. This equates to a refund of about $54 million. The Supreme Court ultimately decided that the program violated existing US immigration law.

Activist Groups Also Plan Response Strategies 

Days before the inauguration, the Guardian reported that various activist groups were also planning their own ways to resist Trump’s deportation attempts. These groups anticipated “raids” by the authorities, and they plan to educate families on how to react if they are targeted by ICE.

Can a Palm Beach Immigration Lawyer Help Me? 

While recent changes to US immigration policy may provide a sense of optimism for immigrants, one cannot rely too heavily on a past government to protect against a new administration. If you face immigration issues or the threat of deportation, consider a consultation with The Devore Law Group. Our experienced immigration lawyers in Palm Beach County may be able to help, so reach out today to get started.

Sources: 

apnews.com/article/el-salvador-tps-biden-immigration-temporary-protected-status-f423f4f3cdbac535af35337ebda314f0

dhs.gov/news/2025/01/10/secretary-mayorkas-and-secretary-blinken-announce-designation-romania-visa-waiver

cbsnews.com/news/biden-immigration-program-spouses-refund/

theguardian.com/us-news/2025/jan/09/trump-border-deportation-threat