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In recent weeks, USCIS has confirmed a heightened focus on security screenings, data verification, and biometrics in line with renewed immigration enforcement policies under the Trump Administration. These efforts, USCIS says, aim to "restore integrity" to the immigration system and enhance national security and public safety. What Changed? On April 22, 2025, a USCIS spokesperson told AP News that the agency is increasing vetting efforts across all immigration programs. This was formally echoed in a May 1, 2025 response to an inquiry from AILA (American Immigration Lawyers Association), where USCIS stated: “We are increasing the screening and vetting of all aliens filing for...

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has announced a new voluntary self-deportation initiative that offers undocumented immigrants free travel assistance and a $1,000 stipend through the CBP Home App. The goal is to reduce the cost and resources spent on formal deportation proceedings while encouraging individuals to leave the U.S. on their own. Key Details of the Program Voluntary participation via the CBP Home App $1,000 stipend paid after departure is confirmed Free travel ticket provided Participants are deprioritized for ICE enforcement while arranging their return May preserve the ability to legally re-enter the U.S. in the future According to DHS, this...

In a significant update for international students across the U.S., U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) is currently restoring certain terminated SEVIS records for F-1 visa holders. As of April 24, 2025, internal communications from ICE’s Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) confirm ongoing efforts to reinstate records that were previously deactivated—some due to legal challenges and others under unclear circumstances. This unexpected development is creating new pathways for F-1 students who were left in limbo and raises critical questions about the future of SEVIS policy enforcement. 🔍 Why Were SEVIS Records Terminated in the First Place? The recent wave of SEVIS terminations...