President Trump has moved swiftly to reinstate and expand deportation policies, making immigration enforcement one of the top priorities of his administration.

Mass Deportations Under Trump’s Second Term – What Immigrants Need to Know

Since taking office in January 2025, President Trump has moved swiftly to reinstate and expand deportation policies, making immigration enforcement one of the top priorities of his administration. Within days of his inauguration, multiple executive orders were signed, directing Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) to increase removal operations targeting undocumented immigrants, visa overstays, and certain green card holders.

With these policies in effect, the immigrant community faces a new era of heightened enforcement, detentions, and removals. Understanding these changes and staying informed may help those affected navigate the evolving legal landscape.

Key Deportation Policy Changes Under Trump

Trump’s approach to deportation differs significantly from the policies of the previous administration. While Biden’s enforcement priorities focused on deporting individuals with serious criminal backgrounds, Trump’s policies expand removal efforts to a broader category of immigrants.

Expansion of Expedited Removal

Expedited removal, which previously applied mainly to immigrants caught near the border, now applies nationwide. Under new orders, undocumented individuals who cannot prove at least two years of U.S. residence may face deportation without an immigration court hearing.

Targeting Long-Term Undocumented Residents

Many undocumented immigrants who had lived in the U.S. for years without criminal records had previously been granted certain protections from removal. Under the new policies, these protections have been revoked, placing many long-term residents—including those with U.S. citizen family members—at risk of deportation proceedings.

Increase in Workplace Raids

ICE has resumed large-scale workplace raids, targeting undocumented workers in industries such as construction, hospitality, and manufacturing. Employers found hiring unauthorized workers are also facing increased penalties.

Increased Scrutiny on Green Card Holders with Criminal Records

Green card holders with past criminal convictions—including certain non-violent offenses—may face heightened enforcement under Trump’s new priorities. While not all green card holders with records are automatically subject to removal, cases are reportedly being reopened at a higher rate. Individuals in this situation may wish to seek legal advice on their status.

Limited Prosecutorial Discretion

Previously, under Biden-era policies, some low-priority deportation cases were delayed or closed. Trump’s administration has ordered these cases to be reopened and expedited, meaning many individuals who were previously not targeted for deportation may now be placed in removal proceedings.

Who May Be at Risk of Deportation?

Trump’s new directives broaden the scope of removal operations. While each case depends on individual circumstances, groups that may be at greater risk include:

  • Undocumented immigrants, including those with no prior criminal records.
  • Visa overstays, meaning individuals who entered legally but remained past their permitted stay.
  • DACA recipients whose protections have expired or are set to expire soon.
  • Green card holders with past criminal convictions, particularly those involving aggravated felonies or crimes of moral turpitude.
  • Asylum seekers whose cases have been denied.

If you or someone you know falls into one of these categories, it may be beneficial to explore legal options before enforcement actions intensify.

What Can Be Done to Protect Immigration Status?

With mass deportations already underway, taking proactive steps may help immigrants navigate this changing landscape. While every case is unique, some individuals may wish to explore legal pathways to secure their status, such as:

  • Exploring family-based immigration options that could provide a path to lawful residency.
  • Determining eligibility for waivers or other forms of relief for visa overstays.
  • Green card holders reviewing options for U.S. citizenship to protect against potential removal.

Given the complexities of immigration law, consulting with an experienced immigration attorney may be beneficial to understand potential relief options.

Stay Informed and Be Prepared

Mass deportations are already happening, and with Trump’s new policies, millions of immigrants may face removal. Whether someone is undocumented, a visa overstay, or a green card holder with past legal issues, being proactive about immigration status may make a difference.

For legal guidance on immigration matters, call us now at 201-461-0031 or email mail@songlawfirm.com to schedule a consultation

Taking action today may help secure your future in America. Contact us to discuss your options confidentially.

Disclaimer: This column is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. For specific guidance on immigration issues, please contact Song Law Firm at 201-461-0031 or via email at mail@songlawfirm.com.

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