Family Petitions, EOIR Case Reopenings, Social Media Travel Tips & More

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USCIS POLICY MANUAL UPDATES

USCIS has released new policy guidance that changes how it reviews family-based immigration petitions—especially green card applications for spouses of U.S. citizens. The updated policy, effective August 1, applies to both new and pending cases. The changes to the policy manual are meant to provide clear and consistent guidance on eligibility criteria, filing requirements, interviews, and decisions for family-based petitions. The new guidance explains when USCIS requires an interview for family-based immigrant visa petitions. Additionally, USCIS made it clear that an approved petition does not give someone legal status and that USCIS may place a person in removal proceedings if they find that person is not eligible to stay in the U.S..

USCIS also clarified their policy on visa availability for those subject to the Child Status Protection Act, a law that protects certain immigrant children from losing their eligibility to immigrate based on an approved family petition. Effective August 15, 2025, USCIS will be calculating the date a visa becomes available for purposes of the CSPA based on the Final Action Dates chart of the Department of State Visa Bulletin. This policy is not retroactive.

Update Your Address with EOIR: Dormant Immigration Cases Are Being Reopened

Immigration courts and the Board of Immigration Appeals are now actively reopening cases that had previously been administratively closed, many of which have been dormant for years. We are seeing a significant rise in motions to recalendar, which place these cases back on a judge’s docket without much warning. If the court does not have your current address, you may miss important notices, including hearing dates, which can lead to a deportation order issued in your absence. If you have an old immigration case, it’s critical to make sure the Executive Office for Immigration Review (EOIR), not just USCIS, has your most up-to-date address. Schedule a consultation with our office if you need assistance updating your address or want to discuss the status of your immigration case.

Federal Judge Blocks Trump’s Birthright Citizenship Order, Appeals Courts Uphold Injunctions

A federal judge in New Hampshire has blocked President Trump’s executive order restricting birthright citizenship and granted class-action status to all children born in the U.S. on or after February 20, 2025, to undocumented or temporarily present parents. The judge ruled the order—limiting citizenship to children with at least one U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident parent—likely violates the 14th Amendment. Since then, the 9th Circuit and other federal courts have upheld similar nationwide injunctions. As of early August, the issue appears headed toward U.S. Supreme Court review, but for now, birthright citizenship remains fully protected under the 14th Amendment.

Immigration Judge Firings Could Slow Down Case Processing

Fifteen immigration judges were recently informed that their employment will end on July 22, following similar terminations earlier this year. These judges were located in states including Texas, California, and New York. The Executive Office for Immigration Review (EOIR), which oversees the immigration court system, has not provided reasons for the dismissals. Replacing experienced judges with new hires could slow down the resolution of immigration cases and add delays for individuals and families awaiting decisions.

Protecting Your Immigration Status: Social Media and Travel Tips for Families

When traveling internationally, immigrants should be aware that U.S. border agents may review social media activity and conduct electronic device searches without a warrant. Refusing a search can result in denied entry or seizure of your devices, even for U.S. citizens. Keep a clear record of your travel documents, social media handles, and any communications with immigration officials. If you encounter difficulties, such as visa denial or entry refusal due to social media, seek legal assistance immediately to address the issue. Staying informed and cautious with your online presence can help ensure a smoother travel experience and protect your family’s immigration status.

Social Media Tips for International Travel:

• Review and adjust your social media privacy settings to limit public visibility.
• Avoid posting content that could be interpreted as political activism, unauthorized employment, or visa violations.
• Refrain from posting about travel plans or visa status before and during your trip.
• Be prepared for possible device searches.
• Document any incidents or communications related to travel or social media scrutiny.
• Consult with an immigration attorney promptly if denied entry or visa status is challenged.

New Visa Bond Pilot Program Targets Countries with High Overstay Rates

Starting August 20, the U.S. will implement a one-year pilot program allowing consular officers to require visa bonds ranging from $5,000 to $15,000 for certain visitors. The program targets applicants from countries with high visa overstay rates or insufficient vetting systems. Travelers affected will be required to post a bond—typically $10,000—which will be refunded if they leave the U.S. on time. In addition to the bond, a new $250 “visa integrity fee” will also take effect on October 1, adding to the cost burden for those applying for non-immigrant visas.

Texas Bill Mandates ICE Cooperation – Prepare Now with a Plan

As of June 23, 2025, Texas has enacted Senate Bill 8 (SB 8), mandating cooperation between local law enforcement and Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). This sweeping legislation requires sheriffs in larger Texas counties that operate or contract jails to enter into 287(g) agreements with ICE.. The bill could have far-reaching consequences for undocumented individuals and their U.S. citizen family members. By deputizing local law enforcement to identify undocumented immigrants in jails, the bill raises the risk of immigration holds and removal proceedings—even for those married to or parenting U.S. citizens. This increased enforcement presence could discourage undocumented individuals from seeking help or cooperating with authorities, compounding fear and instability in mixed-status households.

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.

August 2025 Visa Bulletin

Dates for Filing:

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