1.6 Million to Lose Legal U.S. Residency Rights in 2025: NPR
As the Biden administration’s immigration policies face a significant reversal under President Trump’s leadership, over 1.6 million immigrants may face the loss of their legal residency rights by 2025. This shocking statistic highlights a trend toward tightening immigration controls in the United States.
Mass Loss of Legal Status
In the first 11 months of Trump’s presidency, more than 1.6 million immigrants have lost their legal status. This group includes individuals from various visa categories, asylum seekers, and those under temporary protected status (TPS).
- This number surpasses the population of Philadelphia.
- Many affected individuals have lived in the U.S. for several years.
- Immigration advocates fear this number may be an undercount.
Todd Schulte, president of the advocacy group FWD.us, emphasized that many individuals followed legal pathways that the government had provided, only for those statuses to be revoked later.
Policy Changes and Programs Affected
Key changes implemented by the Trump administration include the cancellation of several vital immigration programs:
- The diversity visa lottery program has been paused, impacting thousands of immigrants.
- CBP One, a mobile app allowing asylum appointments, was terminated, disrupting the legal entry process for many.
- Temporary protected status has been ended for 10 countries since January.
These cancellations are part of an effort to reduce both legal and illegal immigration substantially. According to White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt, the administration is focused on revoking legal status for many individuals.
Specific Programs Under Threat
- TPS for El Salvador, Lebanon, Somalia, Sudan, and Yemen is expiring next year.
- Ukrainian protection programs may also be canceled, leaving vulnerable populations without safe residency.
Analysis shows that some TPS beneficiaries might keep their status until October 2026, while ongoing lawsuits may impact various terminations. However, the uncertainty surrounding future extensions creates anxiety for many.
Visa Revocations and Legal Consequences
This year, the U.S. State Department has revoked 85,000 visas across multiple categories. Common reasons include criminal behavior, with DUIs and theft cited as leading causes.
As the implications of these policies unfold, many immigrants in the U.S. are grappling with fear and uncertainty regarding their futures.
Looking Ahead
Should current policies remain in place, millions may lose their legal residency rights by 2025. This unprecedented shift raises significant concerns about the treatment of those who have followed legal immigration processes.
With numerous programs under scrutiny, the immigrant community remains vigilant and prepared for the challenges ahead, as the U.S. immigration landscape continues to evolve.
