“Parole in Place” Refund Checks, TPS Extensions, EAD Extensions, & More
USCIS Issuing Refunds for the Parole In Place & Keeping Families Together Program
As of January 6, 2025, USCIS has started issuing refunds for the $580 filing fee related to the now-vacated Keeping Families Together (KFT) Parole Program. Refunds will be processed over the next 5-6 weeks, and applicants will receive a notice in their MyUSCIS accounts indicating that their case has been administratively closed and a refund is being issued. If the fee was paid by credit card, the refund will be credited back within 1-2 weeks. For those who paid by debit card, ICE will issue a refund by check, which may take up to 6 weeks due to weekly issuance limits.
DHS Final Rule Permanently Extends EAD Automatic Renewal Period to 540 Days for Certain Applicants
On December 13, 2024, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) published a final rule increasing the automatic extension period for expiring Employment Authorization Documents (EADs) from 180 days to up to 540 days for certain renewal applicants. This is especially significant for family-based applicants, including those applying for adjustment of status (C09), certain asylum seekers (C08), and Temporary Protected Status (TPS) holders (A12 or C19).
For individuals in these categories, employers may continue to accept EADs that appear expired if accompanied by a Form I-797C receipt notice showing timely filing and eligibility for automatic extension.
Incoming Trump Administration Planning to Allow ICE Enforcement at Sensitive Locations
According to NBC News and other media outlets, the incoming Trump administration is planning to rescind the policy that barred ICE and immigration enforcement from undertaking enforcement acts in sensitive places such as schools, churches, and hospitals. While no policy change has been made official yet, immigrants should be aware that a number of changes will take place with he incoming Trump administration, and we urge the exercise of caution.
Birth Right Citizenship Ends?
The incoming Trump administration has taken aim at birthright citizenship both in the campaign trail and in subsequent announcements. Birthright citizenship is a right of any person born in the territory of the United States under the 14th Amendment of the United States Constitution, regardless of the citizenship or immigration status of the parents. However, removing birthright citizenship would be a difficult process and would involve either a change to the Constitution, or a decision of the Supreme Court. In the past, the Supreme Court has recognized birthright citizenship as part of the 14th Amendment.
The House Advances the Laken Riley Act to Expand Immigration Enforcement
The Laken Riley Act, recently passed by the House, is now being considered by the Senate. The bill seeks to increase state involvement in immigration enforcement and mandates the detention of noncitizens suspected of theft involving $100 or more. If enacted, it would allow state attorneys general to sue federal agencies to enforce immigration actions and request visa bans on countries refusing to accept deported nationals.
The legislation could significantly impact immigration policy, increasing detention requirements and altering visa eligibility for individuals accused of minor infractions. Monty & Ramirez LLP will continue to track the bill’s progress and provide updates. If you have concerns about how this may affect your family’s immigration case, contact our office for assistance.
DHS Extends TPS Designations for El Salvador, Ukraine, Sudan, and Venezuela
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has announced an 18-month extension of Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Ukraine, Sudan, and Venezuela, allowing eligible individuals from these countries to continue living and working in the United States under TPS. Those currently protected must re-register to retain their status and employment authorization (EAD). DHS plans to release detailed re-registration instructions and eligibility requirements in future Federal Register notices. Additionally, an advance copy of a notice extending TPS for El Salvador was issued, with the designation running from March 10, 2025, through September 9, 2026. Official publication of this notice is scheduled for January 17, 2026.