SAVE System Changes, Self-Deportation Risks, TPS for Venezuelans, Visa Crackdowns & More
USCIS has upgraded its SAVE (Systematic Alien Verification for Entitlements) program, which agencies use to confirm immigration status or U.S. citizenship when processing applications for things like driver’s licenses or public benefits.
Additionally, individuals can now check the status of their pending SAVE case online. These changes are designed to make the verification process more accurate, efficient, and easier to follow, reducing delays and helping agencies process applications more smoothly. You can learn more at uscis.gov/save.
Misleading EOIR Flyers Are Being Circulated Nationwide
The Executive Office for Immigration Review (EOIR) has recently begun circulating misleading flyers titled “Message to Illegal Aliens: A Warning to Self-Deport.” These flyers have appeared in immigration courts and are being sent directly to respondents, even those granted relief. Although they bear the Department of Justice seal, many of the statements are inaccurate, legally misleading, and could cause confusion. The flyers suggest that “self-deporting” has benefits—like avoiding fines or preserving future immigration options—without explaining the legal consequences. In fact, leaving the U.S. while in removal proceedings can trigger bars to reentry and even result in a non-waivable five-year ban. These notices are silent regarding a respondent’s legal rights, including the right to appeal and the potential for immigration relief. If you or a loved one receives one of these flyers, do not act on it without first speaking to an immigration attorney. Our firm is closely monitoring the situation and is here to provide guidance and legal clarity.
DHS Announces $1,000 Stipend for Voluntary Self-Deportation via CBP One App
On May 5, 2025, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) announced a controversial new program offering financial and travel assistance to individuals who choose to voluntarily depart the United States using the CBP One app. Under this initiative, noncitizens who self-deport through the app will receive a $1,000 stipend and logistical support for travel back to their home country. DHS claims this is part of an effort to reduce detention and streamline voluntary departures.
Monty & Ramirez LLP urges caution. Voluntarily departing the U.S. while in removal proceedings or after accumulating unlawful presence can carry serious legal consequences—including multi-year bars to reentry. If you are considering departure or have questions about your immigration options, speak to an experienced immigration attorney first to understand the risks and whether safer legal alternatives may apply to your case. No one should consider self-deporting without first speaking to a qualified immigration attorney. The risks are real and may permanently affect your future in the U.S. Call us today at 281-493-5529 to protect your rights and explore your legal options.
TPS for Venezuelans: Supreme Court Ends 2023 Designation—What You Need to Know
The U.S. Supreme Court has cleared the way for the Department of Homeland Security to terminate the 2023 Temporary Protected Status (TPS) designation for Venezuelan nationals. This decision affects an estimated 350,000 individuals who were granted protection from deportation and work authorization due to conditions in Venezuela. While a lower court had temporarily blocked the termination earlier this year, the Supreme Court’s ruling now lifts that injunction, allowing the government to move forward.
Importantly, Venezuelans registered under the earlier 2021 TPS designation still retain their protections and work authorization until September 10, 2025. This means many individuals may still be eligible to remain and work legally in the U.S., depending on which TPS designation they hold. We encourage both individuals and employers to consult with immigration counsel to assess legal options, avoid compliance issues, and prepare for further developments. This situation is evolving rapidly, and we will continue to provide updates as DHS releases official guidance.
ICE Begins New Effort to Detain Noncitizens in Immigration Court
ICE has recently intensified their operations by arresting noncitizens in immigration court. ICE Office of the Principal Legal Advisor (OPLA) has been moving to dismiss formal removal proceedings provided under Immigration and National Act (INA) § 240. Once the motion is granted by an immigration judge, it is reported that ICE Enforcement and Removal Operation (ERO) are taking noncitizens into custody for expedited removal orders. This expansion of expedited removal is being challenged in federal court. Individuals who are required to appear at an immigration court should speak to a qualified immigration attorney to discuss any questions or concerns related to expedited removal proceedings.
Federal Judge Blocks Law Offering Undocumented Residents In-State Tuition
On June 4, 2025 a federal judge in Texas blocked The Texas Dream Act soon after the U.S. Department of Justice announced that it was suing Texas over this policy that allowed undocumented students to qualify for lower tuition rates at public universities. The Texas Dream Act, championed by former Texas governor Rick Perry, allowed undocumented residents access to the same discounted tuition as other in-state college students. Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton claims that this is the end of a “discriminatory and un-American provision.”
Crackdown on Visa Overstays
On June 4, 2025 U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) released a statement on their website regarding visa overstays in response to a recent incident in Boulder, Colorado involving an Egyptian national who overstayed his visa in the United States and is said to have attacked various Americans. This statement cites that CBP, ICE, and USCIS are ramping up their review of immigration records to take “immediate appropriate” actions to address visa overstays.
Texas Bill Mandates ICE Cooperation – Prepare Now with a Plan
The proposed Texas bill mandating that large counties enter 287(g) agreements with ICE 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.
June 2025 – Dates for Filing (Family-Sponsored)
| Category | All Chargeability Areas Except Those Listed | CHINA-mainland born | INDIA | MEXICO | PHILIPPINES |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| F1 | 01SEP17 | 01SEP17 | 01SEP17 | 01APR06 | 22APR15 |
| F2A | 01FEB25 | 01FEB25 | 01FEB25 | 01FEB25 | 01FEB25 |
| F2B | 01JAN17 | 01JAN17 | 01JAN17 | 01APR07 | 01OCT13 |
| F3 | 22JUL12 | 22JUL12 | 22JUL12 | 15JUN01 | 22SEP04 |
| F4 | 01JUN08 | 01JUN08 | 01DEC06 | 30APR01 | 01JAN08 |
July 2025 – Dates for Filing (Family-Sponsored)
| Category | All Chargeability Areas Except Those Listed | CHINA-mainland born | 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 |