Stricter USCIS Enforcement, TPS Updates, & More

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Federal Judge rules Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Venezuela Remains Valid

On September 5, 2025, a federal judge ruled the Department of Homeland Security unlawfully revoked TPS protections for Venezuelans and Haitains. The judge’s order effectively sets aside the administration’s attempt to end temporary legal protections and work permits for individuals on TPS from Venezuela and Haiti. For now, TPS remains valid for both 2021 and 2023 Venezuela TPS recipients until October 2, 2026. Former Secretary Mayorkas’s extension allows for re-registration until September 10, 2025. However, further litigation is expected on the matter as the Justice Department will likely appeal the decision.

It is important to act promptly to avoid gaps in work authorization or legal status, and our team at Monty & Ramirez LLP is available to provide guidance and answer any questions.

USCIS Brings Back “Neighborhood Checks” for Citizenship Applicants

On August 22, 2025, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) announced in a policy memorandum that it will once again conduct in-person “neighborhood checks” as part of the naturalization process, ending a 34-year waiver of the practice. Under the updated policy, USCIS officers may interview neighbors, coworkers, or employers of applicants to verify eligibility for U.S. citizenship, including good moral character and continuous residence. While officers will decide on a case-by-case basis to conduct these checks, the agency is encouraging applicants to submit testimonial letters with their applications to help avoid additional scrutiny or delays.

What This Means for Families Applying for Citizenship:

• Case-by-case reviews: Neighborhood checks will not apply automatically but may be ordered if USCIS feels more evidence is needed.
• Prepare testimonial letters: Submitting letters from neighbors, employers, or community members upfront may reduce the risk of added investigations.
• Expect possible delays: If USCIS decides a check is necessary, it could slow down the naturalization process.
• Workplace involvement: Employers may be contacted to verify employment history and basic character information.

Bottom Line:

Most citizenship applicants will see no change, but families should be aware that USCIS officers now have broad discretion to conduct neighborhood checks. Preparing strong documentation from the beginning can help keep cases moving forward.

USCIS to Consider Anti-Americanism in Immigrant Benefit Requests

U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has issued new policy guidance making it clear that anti-American activity, antisemitic views, and ties to terrorist organizations will weigh heavily against applicants in immigration benefit requests that require the use of discretion. The updated USCIS Policy Manual emphasizes that immigration benefits are a privilege, not a right, and officers will now treat evidence of anti-American or antisemitic activity as an overwhelmingly negative factor when evaluating applications, including parole requests, EB-5 investor petitions, and other discretionary benefits. The policy also expands social media vetting to identify such activity. USCIS stressed that compliance with U.S. immigration laws remains a central factor in favorable discretionary decisions. This updated guidance is effective immediately and applies to all pending and future requests.

USCIS Updates Good Moral Character Review for Naturalization

On August 15, 2025, USCIS issued a policy memo revising how officers evaluate the “good moral character” requirement for naturalization. Under the new guidance, officers will consider a wider range of factors, including positive contributions such as community involvement, family caregiving, education, stable employment, and tax compliance, alongside conduct previously overlooked, like repeated traffic violations or other actions inconsistent with civic responsibility. Family-based applicants seeking citizenship should be prepared for more comprehensive background reviews and may need to provide evidence of rehabilitation or positive contributions. This update may result in longer processing times and signals a broader trend toward stricter, more subjective evaluations in immigration benefits.

USCIS Adds Electronic Payment Option for Family Immigration Fees

USCIS now allows family-based petition and application fees to be paid electronically via ACH debit from a U.S. bank account using Form G-1650, or by credit card using Form G-1450. Paper checks and money orders will be accepted only until October 28, 2025; after that, USCIS will accept only ACH debit or credit card payments. Applicants without a U.S. bank account may use Form G-1450 with a credit or prepaid card. Applications may be rejected if payments are denied.

USCIS to Enforce Consequences for Aliens Who Falsify Information – Prepare Now with a Plan

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 an 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.

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.

September 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