New Visa Rules, Texas Dream Act Blocked, TPS Ending, and More
This comprehensive immigration update covers key changes affecting employers and visa applicants, including the F, M, and J visa social media public rule, TPS endings for several countries, the Texas Dream Act block, and critical employer compliance alerts. Stay informed to navigate evolving immigration requirements confidently.
F, M, and J Visa Applicants Must Make Social Media Public Under New State Department Rule
The U.S. State Department has announced new requirements for individuals applying for F, M, and J nonimmigrant visas—commonly used by international students and exchange visitors. Under this policy, all applicants must make their social media profiles public to undergo enhanced vetting as part of the visa screening process. This step is now a key part of national security efforts, as consular officers will review online presence when determining visa eligibility. If you or someone you know is applying for an F, M, or J visa, it’s critical to understand these new requirements. For personalized guidance, contact the immigration team at Monty & Ramirez at 281-493-5529.
Texas Dream Act Blocked—What It Means for Undocumented Students and Their Families
A recent federal court ruling has blocked the Texas Dream Act, a longstanding law that allowed undocumented students living in Texas to pay in-state tuition. Now, state officials have ordered public colleges and universities to identify students who are not legally present and reclassify them as out-of-state—potentially tripling their tuition costs. This sudden change is creating fear and confusion for many immigrant families, especially those with children preparing for college. With no clear process for how schools should determine immigration status, families may face inconsistent treatment and unexpected financial barriers. If your family is impacted or has questions about how this ruling could affect your child’s education, now is the time to speak with a trusted immigration attorney.
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, effectively expanding ICE’s reach into local communities. 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.
TPS for Nepal Ends August 5, 2025
The U.S. Department of Homeland Security has announced that Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Nepal will terminate on August 5, 2025, following a determination that conditions in Nepal have improved since the 2015 earthquake. Nepali nationals and stateless individuals who last resided in Nepal and currently hold TPS should prepare for this change and explore other legal options to remain in the U.S., such as adjustment of status, employer sponsorship, asylum, or nonimmigrant visas. A 60-day transition period is in place, and certain employment authorization documents (EADs) have been automatically extended through the termination date.
TPS for Haiti Ends September 2, 2025—Haitian Nationals Urged to Explore Legal Options
The Department of Homeland Security has announced the termination of Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Haiti, with the designation set to expire on August 3, 2025, and full termination effective September 2, 2025. Citing improved conditions in Haiti, DHS encourages Haitian nationals to prepare for their return or to pursue lawful immigration options if eligible. Haitian TPS holders should act quickly to explore pathways such as adjustment of status, asylum, or other immigration benefits.
TPS for Honduras to End in September 2025
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has announced that the Temporary Protected Status (TPS) designation for Honduras will be terminated effective September 6, 2025—60 days after its publication in the Federal Register on July 8, 2025. DHS determined that the conditions caused by Hurricane Mitch in 1999 no longer warrant TPS protection. As a result, approximately 72,000 Hondurans currently holding TPS must prepare for this change. Employment authorization will remain valid during the 60-day transition period. It is important for TPS holders to explore alternative immigration options as soon as possible.
TPS for Nicaragua to End in September 2025
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has announced the termination of Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Nicaragua, effective September 6, 2025—60 days after publication in the Federal Register on July 8, 2025. After reviewing current conditions in Nicaragua, DHS concluded the country has sufficiently recovered from the natural disaster that led to its initial TPS designation in 1999. With improved infrastructure, economic development, and the ability to accept returning nationals, Nicaragua no longer meets the statutory requirements for TPS. Approximately 4,000 Nicaraguans with TPS will be affected. Employment authorization remains valid during the 60-day transition period.
Justice Department Prioritizes Denaturalization of Certain Naturalized U.S. Citizens
In a major policy shift, the U.S. Department of Justice is directing its attorneys to prioritize denaturalization proceedings against certain naturalized citizens, particularly those with criminal convictions or allegations of fraud. A recent DOJ memo outlines an aggressive enforcement approach, expanding the scope of denaturalization to include national security concerns and fraud-related offenses such as PPP loan or Medicare fraud. This civil litigation process carries serious due process concerns, including the absence of a guaranteed attorney and a lower burden of proof. Immigration advocates warn that the effort could create a “second class” of U.S. citizens—those born abroad—who remain vulnerable to losing their citizenship. If you or someone you know is concerned about denaturalization risks or has questions about citizenship status, contact Monty & Ramirez at 281-493-5529 for a confidential consultation.
New DHS Rule Allows Fines of Up to $998 Per Day for Undocumented Immigrants With Removal Orders
On June 27, the Trump administration implemented a new rule allowing Department of Homeland Security (DHS) officers to impose civil fines—up to $998 per day—on certain undocumented immigrants with final orders of removal. This rule modifies a rarely enforced provision from a 1996 immigration law. Under the new process, DHS officers can send fine notices directly without first issuing a Notice of Intention to Fine. Recipients have 15 business days to appeal, and failure to respond bars further challenge. Appeals will now be reviewed only by supervisory DHS officers, with no option for an in-person hearing or review by the Board of Immigration Appeals. DHS cites modernized systems as the basis for these procedural changes. Individuals with past removal orders or unresolved immigration issues should consult with an immigration attorney to review their status and be prepared for possible enforcement actions.
USCIS Clarifies Validity Requirements for Refugee and Asylee Marriages
Effective March 3, 2025, USCIS has updated its policy to clarify that marriages between principal refugees or asylees and their derivative spouses must be legally valid under the law of the jurisdiction where the marriage took place to qualify for immigration benefits. This guidance applies to all pending and future requests and brings USCIS policy in line with Board of Immigration Appeals precedent and recent executive orders. Refugees and asylees seeking to include a spouse in their application should ensure their marriage complies with local legal standards.
July 2025 Visa Bulletin
Dates for Filing:
| Family-Sponsored | All ChargeabilityAreas ExceptThose Listed | CHINA-mainlandborn | INDIA | MEXICO | PHILIPPINES |
| F1 | 01SEP17 | 01SEP17 | 01SEP17 | 01JUN06 | 22APR15 |
| F2A | 01MAR25 | 01MAR25 | 01MAR25 | 01MAR25 | 01MAR25 |
| F2B | 01JAN17 | 01JAN17 | 01JAN17 | 01APR08 | 01OCT13 |
| F3 | 22JUL12 | 22JUL12 | 22JUL12 | 15JUN01 | 01DEC04 |
| F4 | 08SEP08 | 08SEP08 | 01DEC06 | 30APR01 | 01JAN08 |
For more information, please contact the experienced immigration attorneys at Monty & Ramirez LLP at 713-289-4546 or via email at info@montyramirezlaw.com