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In 2025, U.S. immigration law is undergoing significant changes, from the introduction of a new travel ban to major reforms in the H-1B visa program and the hopeful passage of the American Families United Act aimed at keeping families together. Navigating these complex and rapidly evolving policies can be challenging, making it essential to consult with an experienced immigration attorney. Expert guidance can help individuals and families understand their rights and take full advantage of new opportunities while avoiding costly mistakes.
The New June 2025 U.S. Travel Ban
In a major move during his second term, President Donald Trump has reenacted a sweeping new travel ban, effective June 9, 2025, targeting citizens of 12 countries and imposing partial restrictions on seven more. The administration cites national security concerns and the threat of “foreign terrorists” as the primary justification, continuing a broader immigration crackdown that has also focused on deportations and tighter visa rules for foreign students.
The countries facing a full travel ban include: Afghanistan, Myanmar, Chad, Republic of the Congo, Equatorial Guinea, Eritrea, Haiti, Iran, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, and Yemen.
Partial restrictions apply to citizens of: Burundi, Cuba, Laos, Sierra Leone, Togo, Turkmenistan, and Venezuela.
It is important to note this ban applies only to foreign nationals from these countries who are outside the United States on or after June 9, 2025, and do not hold a valid visa as of that date. Additionally, visas issued before June 9 will remain valid and will not be revoked under this policy.
Exceptions from the ban include:
- U.S. lawful permanent residents
- Immediate family of lawful residents with valid immigrant visas
- U.S. government employees holding Special Immigrant Visas
- Dual nationals traveling on a passport from a non-banned country
- Afghan nationals with Special Immigrant Visas
- Religious or ethnic minorities from Iran with specific immigrant visas
- Athletes and their families attending major international sporting events, such as Olympics or World Cup
This policy could significantly disrupt the visa process for nationals from the banned countries, leading to heightened scrutiny, potential denials, and longer wait times. For many, visa eligibility will be entirely suspended unless they qualify for and receive a waiver, something that may be difficult to obtain without legal support.
With U.S. immigration policy shifting rapidly, it is more important than ever to stay informed. If you are concerned about how these changes may impact your visa application or your ability to travel to the U.S consult with an immigration attorney at CoxEsq, PC.
The 2025 H-1B Reform: New Rules for Entrepreneurial Immigration
In 2025, important reforms to the H1B visa program expanded opportunities for skilled foreign workers, with a special focus on startup founders. The Department of Homeland Security’s H-1B Modernization Rule, effective January 17, now allows entrepreneurs with majority ownership in their companies to self-petition for H-1B visas. This marks a major shift from past restrictions that treated owner-applicants with skepticism. To qualify, founders must demonstrate a valid employer-employee relationship through independent oversight, employment contracts, and operational separation. The rule also redefines “specialty occupation,” replacing the rigid “always required” degree standard with a more flexible “normally required” standard, better aligning with modern interdisciplinary roles. Alongside these changes, the H-1B lottery process was revamped to limit duplicate entries, and the registration fee increased from $10 to $215. These reforms offer new pathways for innovation-driven immigration but add complexity, making legal guidance more essential than ever for successful petitioning in today’s regulatory environment.
The American Families United Act
The American Families United Act, if passed by Congress in 2025, would bring relief for immigrant families facing separation due to technical immigration violations. This bipartisan legislation grants immigration judges greater discretion to waive certain inadmissibility bars, allowing undocumented spouses, children, and parents of U.S. citizens to adjust their status and remain lawfully in the country. Beyond family unity, the act may also benefit asylum seekers by giving judges more flexibility to prioritize keeping families together, even if asylum claims are denied. The AFUA represents a compassionate shift in immigration policy, recognizing the importance of family stability and offering hope to many who currently face uncertainty and risk of deportation.
Contact CoxESQ, PC Immigration Law Firm for Help with Rapidly Changing Immigration Policy
U.S. Immigration law is constantly changing and staying informed and prepared is more important in 2025 before than ever. Whether you’re facing challenges related to travel restrictions, visa reforms, or family-based immigration, having skilled legal support can make all the difference. Contact the immigration law experts at CoxESQ, PC today to schedule a consultation and ensure your rights are protected every step of the way.