February Family Immigration

Appeals Court Backs Trump’s Mandatory Detention Policy

On Friday, February 6, 2026, the Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals concluded that the administration’s new policy of detaining individuals without opportunity to seek a bond, is the correct interpretation of the federal government’s power to detain people targeted for deportation. People who have no criminal records and have resided in the country for years or even decades could now be detained and denied the opportunity to seek their release through bond hearings before immigration judges if they are in Texas, Louisiana, or Mississippi. The issue is likely to go to the Supreme Court as other appeals courts around the US weigh in. In the meantime, our experienced immigration attorneys are available to review options if you or a loved one are at risk of detention.

At Monty & Ramirez LLP, we believe preparation is power. There’s no magic fix for immigration challenges—but with Plan Prepárate, the Prepare and Protect Plan, families gain something stronger: a real plan and rapid access to experienced legal defense when it matters most. Call 281-493-5529 today to see if you or your family member qualifies for Plan Prepárate, the Prepare and Protect Plan.

Federal Court Pauses Termination of Haiti TPS

A federal judge in Washington, D.C. has temporarily blocked the scheduled termination of Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Haiti, which had been set to end on February 3, 2026. The court ruled that the administration’s decision to end Haiti’s TPS designation is likely unlawful and ordered the protections to remain in place while the case proceeds through judicial review. Haitian TPS holders may continue to benefit from deportation relief and work authorization for now, though the length of any automatic extension remains uncertain. We are closely monitoring developments, including potential appeals and further guidance from DHS.

Family Immigration Alert: TPS and Parole Program Updates

As of January 28, 2026

Immigration programs that protect families through Temporary Protected Status (TPS) and humanitarian parole continue to change quickly in 2026. Several programs have been terminated, paused, or are currently being challenged in federal court.

Below is a simplified update on the most important developments that may affect families currently living and working in the United States.

Parole Program Updates for Families

TPS Updates That May Affect Families

Temporary Protected Status allows certain individuals from designated countries to remain and work legally in the United States due to unsafe conditions abroad. Several TPS designations are now changing through terminations and lawsuits.

Venezuela TPS Update (Separate Designations)

Important Reminder for Families

If you or a loved one currently relies on TPS or parole:

• Do not assume your status automatically continues
• Check expiration dates on work permits and approval notices
• Be cautious of notarios or scams promising quick fixes
• Speak with an immigration attorney before filing new applications or traveling

Many of these programs are changing through federal court decisions, sometimes with little notice.

Questions About Your Family’s Immigration Options?

Monty & Ramirez LLP helps families nationwide with:

• Family-based green cards
• Parole in Place updates
• TPS renewals and alternatives
• Adjustment of status strategies
• Deportation defense planning

Call our office at 281-493-5529 to schedule a consultation.

USCIS Expands Hold on Immigration Applications for Nationals of High-Risk Countries

On December 2, 2025, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) temporarily halted processing of immigration benefits — including green cards, naturalization, asylum, and other applications — for nationals of 19 countries previously identified under the 2025 travel ban. Interviews and oath ceremonies for affected individuals were also suspended.

On January 1, 2026, USCIS issued Policy Memorandum PM-602-0194, expanding the hold to additional countries listed in Presidential Proclamation 10998. The memorandum also directs a re-review of all approved benefit requests for individuals from these countries who entered the U.S. on or after January 20, 2021.

Certain applications remain exempt, including green card replacements, citizenship document requests, and cases serving U.S. national interests. Monty & Ramirez LLP will continue monitoring this developing policy and provide updates on any implications for family-based immigration cases.

New Visa Issuance Suspensions Under Presidential Proclamation 10998

Effective January 1, 2026, the U.S. Department of State implemented new visa issuance and entry restrictions under Presidential Proclamation 10998, suspending visas fully or partially for nationals of 39 countries and certain individuals traveling on Palestinian Authority–issued documents. The Proclamation fully suspends immigrant and nonimmigrant visa issuance for nationals of 19 countries, including Afghanistan, Haiti, Iran, Somalia, Syria, and Yemen, with limited exceptions for lawful permanent residents, diplomatic categories, dual nationals, and select special immigrant visas. Additional partial suspensions apply to 19 more countries, affecting visitor, student, exchange, and immigrant visa categories.

Updated DOS guidance issued February 2, 2026 confirms that children being adopted by U.S. citizens may qualify for a case-by-case National Interest Exception and should continue through the normal adoption and consular process. Families impacted by these restrictions should consult immigration counsel to assess available exceptions and next steps.

DACA Renewal Reminder: File Early to Avoid Work Authorization Gaps

Delays in DACA and Employment Authorization Document (EAD) renewals are increasing, leaving many recipients at risk of employment interruptions. To avoid gaps in work authorization, USCIS recommends filing your DACA renewal 150–120 days (4–5 months) before your current approval and work permit expire. Filing too close to expiration—just 1–2 months prior—can result in unnecessary delays while your case is pending.

Key Tips for a Smooth Renewal:

• File as soon as you are eligible (150 days before expiration)
• Submit online to track updates and respond quickly
• Double-check forms, signatures, and fees for accuracy
• Filing earlier than 150 days will not speed up processing

Our immigration team can guide you on timing and help ensure your renewal is filed correctly, keeping your work authorization uninterrupted.

USCIS to Enforce Consequences for Aliens Who Falsify Information

USCIS has announced stricter rules for people who provide false information on immigration applications, especially false claims of being a U.S. citizen. Lying or using fake documents to get any immigration benefit can result in very serious consequences, including being found inadmissible to the United States. The updated guidance makes clear that immigration fraud will not be tolerated, and USCIS officers will carefully review cases to determine if someone knowingly provided false information. This policy is effective immediately and applies to all current and future applications.

February 2026 Visa Bulletin

Dates for Filing:

Legal Guidance for Immigrant Families –

La Ley 92.1 FM Houston (SPANISH)

Tune in to La Ley 92.1 FM Houston every Sunday at 9:00 a.m. to hear legal guidance from immigration attorney Sarah D. Monty of Monty & Ramirez LLP. The program provides timely information, updates on immigration policies, and practical guidance for individuals and families navigating the U.S. immigration process.

Program Schedule

📅 January 4

Facing Deportation? What You Need to Know

A conversation between Attorney Sarah Monty and Deportation Defense Attorney Verónica Franco Salazar.

📅 January 11

Legal Protection: Safeguarding Families Without Immigration Status

Attorney Sarah Monty speaks with Estate Planning and Wills Attorney Sergio Castillo about the importance of legal protection.

📅 January 18

The New Naturalization Exam: Changes and How to Prepare

Attorney Sarah Monty and Immigration Attorney Maricela Alvarado explain the key updates.

📅 January 25

Challenging Mandatory Detention: Understanding the Writ of Habeas Corpus

An informative discussion with Attorneys Sarah Monty and Verónica Franco Salazar.

📅 February 8

Legal Options to Adjust Status Without Leaving the United States

Attorney Sarah Monty explores this topic in depth with Immigration Attorney Maricela Alvarado.

📅 February 15

DACA Updates: Preparing for Upcoming Changes

Attorneys Sarah Monty and Verónica Franco Salazar share the latest developments.

📅 February 22

Real Estate Law and Immigrant Families: What You Need to Know

Attorney Sarah Monty and Real Estate Attorney Sergio Castillo discuss key issues.

📅 March 1

Immigration Benefits for Crime Victims: Your Rights and Options

Attorneys Sarah Monty and Verónica Franco Salazar explain important protections.

📅 March 8

Immigration Fraud: How It Can Destroy Your Case

Attorneys Sarah Monty and Maricela Alvarado examine the serious consequences.

📅 March 15

Why Is My Green Card Valid for Only Two Years?

Attorneys Sarah Monty and Verónica Franco Salazar explain conditional residence and how to remove conditions.

📅 March 22

The Provisional Waiver Process: Steps and Strategies

Attorneys Sarah Monty and Maricela Alvarado guide you through the essentials.

📅 March 29

Cancellation of Removal: Can It Save Your Case?

Attorneys Sarah Monty and Verónica Franco Salazar analyze this critical form of relief.

For more information, please contact the experienced immigration attorneys at Monty & Ramirez LLP at 713-289-4546 or via email at info@montyramirezlaw.com