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policies between January 2017 and October 2024

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Current Status
  1. January 2021

    1. January 14, 2021

      Acting Attorney General issues a second Matter of A-B- to provide "additional guidance" on asylum

      Hearings and Adjudications AGEOIR Final/Actual Adjudication
    2. January 13, 2021

      EOIR announces interactive Policy Manual to access BIA and Immigration Court Practice Manuals

      Hearings and Adjudications EOIR Final/Actual Agency Directive

      Current Status

      Partially in effect
    3. January 12, 2021

      EOIR Director issues policy memo on rulemakings and federal court orders

      Hearings and Adjudications EOIR Final/Actual Agency Directive

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
    4. January 8, 2021

      EOIR Director issues guidance to restrict continuances

      Hearings and Adjudications EOIR Final/Actual Agency Directive
  1. December 2020

    1. December 31, 2020

      EOIR Director rescinds two more OPPMs

      Hearings and Adjudications EOIR Final/ActualRescinded Agency Directive

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
    2. December 28, 2020

      EOIR releases factsheet on "Myths vs. Facts About Immigration Proceedings"

      Hearings and AdjudicationsAsylum, Withholding and CAT EOIR Final/Actual Data and Reports

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
    3. December 23, 2020

      EOIR and USCIS issue communicable-disease security bars to asylum and withholding eligibility

      Asylum, Withholding and CAT USCISCBPDHSEOIR Final/Actual Rule
    4. December 22, 2020

      EOIR Director rescinds five more OPPMs

      Hearings and AdjudicationsU/T/VAWA EOIR Final/Actual Agency Directive

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
    5. December 18, 2020

      EOIR dramatically increases fees for appeals, applications, and motions

      Hearings and Adjudications EOIR Final/Actual Rule

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
    6. December 18, 2020

      EOIR Director issues policy memo on fees and fee waivers

      Hearings and Adjudications EOIR Final/Actual Agency Directive
    7. December 16, 2020

      New EOIR regs restrict admin closure, curtail BIA decisional authorities, and truncate briefing

      Hearings and Adjudications EOIR ProposedIn LitigationEnjoined/VacatedRescinded Rule
    8. December 16, 2020

      EOIR imposes tougher procedures for asylum and withholding of removal

      Asylum, Withholding and CATHearings and Adjudications EOIR Final/ActualIn LitigationEnjoined/Vacated Rule

      Current Status

      Not in effect
    9. December 11, 2020

      EOIR and DHS issue final rule significantly restricting asylum, withholding of removal, and CAT protections

      Asylum, Withholding and CAT CBPUSCISEOIR Final/ActualIn LitigationEnjoined/Vacated Rule
    10. December 11, 2020

      EOIR Director instructs IJs and BIA on significant asylum reg

      Hearings and Adjudications EOIR Final/Actual Agency Directive
    11. December 10, 2020

      EOIR Director rescinds and replaces OPPMs on pro bono representation

      Hearings and Adjudications EOIR Final/Actual Agency DirectiveChange in Practice
    12. December 4, 2020

      EOIR proposes to mandate electronic filing, change procedures on law student representation

      Hearings and Adjudications EOIR Proposed Forms and Information CollectionRule

      Current Status

      Partially in effect
    13. December 4, 2020

      EOIR Director modifies asylum processing and asylum clock, rescinds two OPPMs

      Hearings and Adjudications EOIR Final/Actual Agency DirectiveChange in Practice
    14. December 1, 2020

      EOIR Director creates master calendar rules specifically for non-detained, represented cases

      Hearings and Adjudications EOIR Final/Actual Agency DirectiveChange in Practice

      Current Status

      Partially in effect
  1. November 2020

    1. November 27, 2020

      EOIR proposes sweeping changes to rules on motions to reopen/reconsider

      Hearings and Adjudications EOIRICE Proposed Rule
    2. November 27, 2020

      EOIR proposes regs to further narrow continuances in immigration court

      Hearings and Adjudications EOIR Proposed Rule

      Current Status

      Not in effect
    3. November 20, 2020

      EOIR rescinds ten OPPMs deemed outdated

      Hearings and Adjudications EOIR Final/Actual Agency Directive

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
    4. November 18, 2020

      EOIR requests comments on New FOIAXpress Public Access Link

      Hearings and Adjudications EOIR Proposed Forms and Information Collection
    5. November 6, 2020

      EOIR updates policy guidance on immigration court hearings conducted by telephone and VTC

      Hearings and Adjudications EOIR Final/Actual Agency Directive

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
    6. November 6, 2020

      EOIR rescinds OPPMs based on ABT settlement agreement

      Asylum, Withholding and CATHearings and Adjudications EOIR Final/Actual Agency Directive

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
    7. November 5, 2020

      AG Barr issues Matter of Negusie, ruling there is no duress exception to "persecutor bar" for asylum and withholding of removal

      Asylum, Withholding and CAT AGEOIRICEUSCIS Final/Actual Adjudication
    8. November 5, 2020

      EOIR issues guidance for implementing Mendez Rojas settlement on recent border crossers and one-year asylum deadline

      Hearings and AdjudicationsAsylum, Withholding and CAT EOIRUSCISDHS Final/Actual Agency Directive

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
    9. November 5, 2020

      DOS revokes designation of ETIM as a foreign terrorist organization

      InteriorBorder DOSDOJDHS Final/Actual Agency Directive

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
    10. November 3, 2020

      EOIR rule expands Director's authority over BIA and expands authority of EOIR Office of Policy

      Hearings and Adjudications EOIR Final/Actual Rule

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
    11. November 2, 2020

      IJ union decertified

      Hearings and Adjudications EOIR In Litigation Change in Practice
  1. October 2020

    1. October 21, 2020

      EOIR and USCIS issue final rule expanding criminal bars to asylum and limiting review of discretionary denials of asylum

      Asylum, Withholding and CATHearings and AdjudicationsInteriorBorder CBPICEUSCISEOIRBureau of Population, Refugees, and Migration Final/ActualIn LitigationEnjoined/Vacated Rule

      Current Status

      Not in effect
    2. October 9, 2020

      Reported: DOJ cancels diversity training, including for immigration judges

      Hearings and Adjudications DOJEOIR Final/ActualRescinded Agency Directive
    3. October 7, 2020

      EOIR creates Chief ALJ position at OCAHO

      Hearings and Adjudications EOIR Final/Actual Rule

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
    4. October 7, 2020

      DOJ issues interim final rule on the issuance of guidance documents and their use in litigation

      Hearings and Adjudications AG Final/Actual Rule

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
    5. October 6, 2020

      USCIS issues guidance on TPS and eligibility for adjustment of status

      TPSImmigrant Visas USCISAG Final/Actual Agency DirectiveChange in Practice
    6. October 1, 2020

      EOIR launches Immigration Court Online Resource (ICOR) and Pro Bono Portal

      DetentionHearings and Adjudications EOIR Final/Actual Data and Reports

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
  1. September 2020

    1. September 30, 2020

      EOIR proposes regulatory change to allow some preparation assistance by representatives without a full appearance

      Hearings and Adjudications EOIR Proposed Forms and Information CollectionRule
    2. September 24, 2020

      AG Barr issues Matter of A-C-A-A-, requiring BIA to review asylum grants more critically

      Hearings and Adjudications AGEOIR Final/Actual Adjudication
    3. September 22, 2020

      EOIR proposes revisions to Form EOIR-27, Entry of Appearance as Attorney/Representative Before BIA

      Hearings and Adjudications EOIR Proposed Forms and Information Collection

      Current Status

      Partially in effect
  1. August 2020

    1. August 21, 2020

      USCIS updates its policy manual with guidance on terminating asylee status at adjustment of status

      Asylum, Withholding and CAT USCISICEEOIR Final/Actual Agency DirectiveChange in Practice

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
    2. August 20, 2020

      Trump Cabinet officials voted in 2018 White House meeting to separate migrant children

      BorderAsylum, Withholding and CAT DHSDOJ Reported Agency Directive

      Current Status

      Not in effect
    3. August 3, 2020

      EOIR authorizes use of settlement officers in OCAHO cases

      Hearings and Adjudications EOIR Final/Actual Change in Practice

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
  1. July 2020

    1. July 30, 2020

      AG Barr issues Matter of Reyes, expanding what can qualify as an aggravated felony conviction

      Hearings and Adjudications AGEOIR Final/Actual Adjudication

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
    2. July 17, 2020

      EOIR proposes new Form EOIR-59 to allow for the release of records

      Hearings and Adjudications EOIR Proposed Forms and Information Collection
    3. July 14, 2020

      AG Barr issues Matter of O-F-A-S-, clarifying when harm by a public official constitutes torture for CAT purposes

      Hearings and AdjudicationsAsylum, Withholding and CAT AGEOIR Final/Actual Adjudication

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
    4. July 13, 2020

      Justice Department proposes revisions to EOIR-31A, Request for Accreditation of Non-Attorney Representative

      Hearings and Adjudications EOIR Proposed Forms and Information Collection

      Current Status

      Not in effect
    5. July 13, 2020

      DOJ proposes revisions to Form EOIR-31 regarding recognition of non-profit organizations

      Humanitarian EOIR Proposed Forms and Information Collection

      Current Status

      Not in effect
    6. July 2, 2020

      EOIR rescinds two OPPMs deemed outdated

      Hearings and Adjudications EOIR Final/Actual Agency Directive

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
    7. July 2, 2020

      EOIR Director issues second decision on Matter of Bay Area Legal Services, Inc., rebukes amicus curiae

      Hearings and Adjudications EOIR Final/Actual Adjudication

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
  1. June 2020

    1. June 17, 2020

      AG Barr certifies Matter of A-M-R-C-, a 15 years' closed asylum case

      Hearings and AdjudicationsAsylum, Withholding and CAT AG Final/Actual Adjudication

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
    2. June 12, 2020

      EOIR rescinds five OPPMs deemed outdated

      Hearings and Adjudications EOIR Final/Actual Agency Directive

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
    3. June 9, 2020

      DOJ "reassigns" pre-Trump BIA judges

      Hearings and Adjudications EOIR Reported Change in Practice

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
  1. May 2020

    1. May 27, 2020

      Reported: DOJ offers financial incentives to pre-Trump BIA judges to retire or resign

      Hearings and Adjudications EOIR Reported Change in Practice

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
    2. May 22, 2020

      EOIR Director issues Matter of Bay Area Legal Services, Inc., rules on several R&A issues

      Hearings and Adjudications EOIR Final/Actual Adjudication

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
    3. May 15, 2020

      COVID-19: EOIR postpones hearings for non-detained cases

      Hearings and Adjudications EOIR Final/Actual Change in Practice
  1. April 2020

    1. April 30, 2020

      EOIR extends bar for asylum in CNMI to 2030

      Asylum, Withholding and CAT EOIR Final/Actual Rule

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
    2. April 29, 2020

      EOIR issues guidance on legal changes affecting individuals in the CNMI

      Asylum, Withholding and CATHearings and Adjudications EOIR Final/Actual Agency Directive

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
    3. April 3, 2020

      EOIR begins accepting digital and electronic signatures

      Hearings and Adjudications EOIR Final/Actual Change in Practice

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
  1. March 2020

    1. March 23, 2020

      COVID-19: DHS and EOIR jointly announce rescheduling of MPP hearings

      Asylum, Withholding and CATHearings and Adjudications ICEEOIR Final/Actual Change in Practice

      Current Status

      Partially in effect
    2. March 18, 2020

      COVID-19: EOIR sets immigration court practices during outbreak

      Hearings and Adjudications EOIR Replaced Agency Directive
    3. March 9, 2020

      DOJ eliminates DHS discretion to exempt certain detained noncitizens from DNA-sample collection

      BorderInteriorDetention ICEDOJCBP Final/Actual Rule

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
    4. March 6, 2020

      ICE requests redeployment of 500 HSI agents to increase arrests and surveillance in sanctuary cities

      InteriorSanctuary Restrictions ICECBPEOIR Reported Change in Practice

      Current Status

      Not in effect
  1. February 2020

    1. February 27, 2020

      Reported: ICE, CBP and DOJ use Clearview AI, a facial recognition program to scan social media photos

      Enforcement CBPICEDOJ Reported Change in Practice

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
    2. February 26, 2020

      AG Barr issues Matter of R-A-F-, remanding BIA decision for reconsideration of "torture" determination

      Asylum, Withholding and CATHearings and Adjudications AGEOIR Final/Actual Adjudication

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
    3. February 26, 2020

      DOJ announces OIL unit dedicated to denaturalization cases

      Hearings and AdjudicationsNaturalizationCitizenship USCISDOJ Final/Actual Change in Practice

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
    4. February 20, 2020

      Update to Immigration Court Practice Manual imposes page limit on pre-trial briefs

      Hearings and Adjudications EOIR Final/Actual Change in Practice

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
    5. February 13, 2020

      EOIR clarifies use of standing orders, relationship with Immigration Practice Manual

      Hearings and Adjudications EOIR Final/Actual Agency Directive

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
    6. February 13, 2020

      EOIR Director modifies adjournment, call up, and case identification codes

      Hearings and Adjudications EOIR Final/ActualRescinded Agency DirectiveChange in Practice
  1. January 2020

    1. January 31, 2020

      EOIR re-articulates policies on case management and docketing

      Hearings and Adjudications EOIR Agency Directive

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
    2. January 17, 2020

      EOIR Director expands restrictions on immigration judges' public speaking

      Hearings and Adjudications EOIRDOJ Final/Actual Agency Directive

      Current Status

      Partially in effect
    3. January 13, 2020

      EOIR issues guidance on adjustment of status eligibility for certain Liberians under the NDAA

      Hearings and Adjudications DHSEOIR Final/Actual Agency Directive

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
    4. January 10, 2020

      State Department designates Asa'ib Ahl al-Haq as a foreign terrorist organization

      InteriorBorder DOSDHSDOJ Final/Actual Agency Directive

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
  1. December 2019

    1. December 21, 2019

      Reported: ICE asking immigration courts to reopen DACA recipients' removal cases

      InteriorDACA ICEEOIR Reported Change in Practice

      Current Status

      Not in effect
    2. December 20, 2019

      USCIS issues guidance to clarify the effect of travel by TPS beneficiaries with final orders

      TPSImmigrant Visas USCISICEEOIR Final/Actual Agency Directive
    3. December 20, 2019

      EOIR to open another immigration court in Houston

      Hearings and Adjudications EOIR Final/Actual Agency Directive

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
    4. December 19, 2019

      EOIR implements electronic system for legal providers to be included on List of Pro Bono Legal Service Providers

      HumanitarianHearings and Adjudications EOIR Final/Actual Forms and Information Collection

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
    5. December 6, 2019

      Reported: EOIR expands use of "tent courts" along Southern Border

      HumanitarianAsylum, Withholding and CATBorderHearings and Adjudications USCISEOIRCBPICE Reported Change in Practice

      Current Status

      Not in effect
  1. November 2019

    1. November 22, 2019

      EOIR General Counsel issues guidance on applying Asylum Eligibility and Procedural Modifications Rule to certain asylum seekers impacted by metering

      Asylum, Withholding and CATHearings and Adjudications EOIR Final/ActualIn Litigation Agency Directive

      Current Status

      Not in effect
    2. November 21, 2019

      EOIR reaffirms amici cannot engage in legal advocacy before IJs

      Hearings and Adjudications EOIR Final/Actual Agency Directive
    3. November 21, 2019

      EOIR final rule exempts OCAHO case management system from Privacy Act

      Hearings and Adjudications EOIR Final/Actual Rule

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
    4. November 21, 2019

      EOIR to open Van Nuys Immigration Court in Los Angeles

      Hearings and Adjudications EOIR Final/Actual Change in Practice

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
    5. November 19, 2019

      Interim final rule modifies existing regulations to implement the Asylum Cooperative Agreements

      BorderAsylum, Withholding and CAT EOIRUSCISCBPDOS Final/ActualIn Litigation Rule
    6. November 19, 2019

      EOIR memorializes policy regarding joint rule on the implementation of Asylum Cooperative Agreements

      Asylum, Withholding and CATBorderHearings and Adjudications USCISEOIRICE Final/ActualIn Litigation Agency Directive
    7. November 15, 2019

      EOIR issues guidance regarding child advocates in UAC hearings

      MinorsHearings and Adjudications EOIRORRICE Final/Actual Agency Directive
    8. November 7, 2019

      CBP issues NTAs with false court dates to migrants in MPP

      Hearings and AdjudicationsAsylum, Withholding and CAT CBPICEEOIR Final/Actual Change in Practice

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
    9. November 6, 2019

      DHS begins implementing the Humanitarian Asylum Review Program

      Asylum, Withholding and CATBorderHearings and Adjudications USCISCBPEOIR Final/ActualIn Litigation Change in Practice
  1. October 2019

    1. Current Status

      Fully in Effect
    2. October 25, 2019

      AG Barr issues Matter of Thomas and Thompson, ruling on the immigration effect of modified criminal convictions

      Hearings and Adjudications AGEOIR Final/Actual Adjudication

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
    3. October 7, 2019

      DHS begins implementing the Prompt Asylum Claim Review program

      Asylum, Withholding and CATBorderDetentionHearings and Adjudications CBPUSCISEOIR Final/ActualIn Litigation Change in Practice
    4. October 2, 2019

      EOIR Director issues guidance on the review of R&A denials

      Hearings and Adjudications EOIR Final/Actual Agency Directive

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
    5. October 1, 2019

      EOIR Director modifies BIA case processing, creates internal deadlines

      Hearings and Adjudications EOIR Final/Actual Agency Directive
  1. September 2019

    1. September 30, 2019

      USCIS issues policy guidance for Matter of L-E-A-

      Asylum, Withholding and CATRefugees USCISICEEOIR Final/Actual Agency Directive
    2. September 26, 2019

      EOIR adds new courts' information to Immigration Court Practice Manual

      Hearings and Adjudications EOIR Replaced Data and Reports

      Current Status

      Not in effect
    3. September 25, 2019

      United States and Honduras sign Asylum Cooperative Agreement

      BorderAsylum, Withholding and CAT CBPUSCISDOJ Final/ActualIn Litigation Agency Directive
    4. September 20, 2019

      United States and El Salvador sign Asylum Cooperative Agreement

      BorderAsylum, Withholding and CAT DOJUSCISCBP Final/ActualIn LitigationRescinded Agency Directive
  1. August 2019

    1. August 16, 2019

      EOIR Director restricts use of status dockets

      Hearings and Adjudications EOIR Final/Actual Agency Directive

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
    2. August 16, 2019

      EOIR clarifies policy on judge misconduct complaints and ex parte communications

      Hearings and Adjudications EOIR Final/Actual Agency Directive

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
    3. August 13, 2019

      EOIR opens immigration court in Sacramento

      Hearings and Adjudications EOIR Final/Actual Agency Directive

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
    4. August 8, 2019

      Detained noncitizens with small children released on humanitarian grounds in Mississippi

      Interior ICEAG Final/Actual Change in Practice

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
  1. July 2019

    1. July 29, 2019

      AG decides Matter of L-E-A-, narrowing family-based PSGs

      Asylum, Withholding and CAT EOIRICEAGUSCIS Final/ActualIn Litigation Adjudication
    2. July 26, 2019

      United States and Guatemala sign Asylum Cooperative Agreement

      Asylum, Withholding and CATBorder DOJCBPUSCIS Final/ActualIn Litigation Agency Directive
    3. July 18, 2019

      DOJ removes probationary period for IJs hired as Board Members

      Hearings and Adjudications EOIR Final/Actual Change in Practice

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
    4. July 16, 2019

      DHS and DOJ issue joint third country asylum rule

      Asylum, Withholding and CATBorder ICEEOIRUSCISCBP Final/ActualIn LitigationEnjoined/Vacated Rule
    5. July 15, 2019

      EOIR issues guidelines regarding DHS/DOJ third country interim final rule

      Asylum, Withholding and CAT ICEEOIR Final/ActualIn LitigationRescinded Agency Directive
    6. July 3, 2019

      EOIR experiments with providing pre-recorded rights advisals at master calendar hearings

      Hearings and Adjudications EOIR ReportedRescinded Change in Practice

      Current Status

      Not in effect
    7. July 2, 2019

      EOIR final rule leaves AWOs intact but allows three Board Member review of complex cases

      Hearings and Adjudications EOIR Final/Actual Rule

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
  1. May 2019

    1. May 23, 2019

      POTUS issues memo ordering strict enforcement of sponsor-reimbursement laws

      Humanitarian DOJDHSHHSDOS Final/Actual Presidential Orders
    2. May 7, 2019

      DOJ seeks comments regarding revision of Form EOIR–26, Notice of Appeal From a Decision of an Immigration Judge

      Hearings and Adjudications EOIR Final/Actual Forms and Information Collection

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
  1. April 2019

    1. April 29, 2019

      President Trump issues memo proposing to tighten asylum rules

      Asylum, Withholding and CATBorder EOIRUSCISCBPAG Proposed Presidential Orders

      Current Status

      Not in effect
    2. April 26, 2019

      DOJ proposes changes to cancellation of removal forms, Form EOIR-42A and EOIR-42B

      Hearings and Adjudications EOIR Final/Actual Forms and Information Collection

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
    3. Current Status

      Fully in Effect
    4. April 8, 2019

      DOS to designate Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps as Foreign Terrorist Organization

      Enforcement DHSDOSAG Final/Actual Agency Directive

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
    5. April 5, 2019

      DOJ finalizes rule adjusting civil monetary penalties for inflation

      Hearings and Adjudications EOIRDOJ Final/Actual Rule

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
  1. March 2019

    1. March 29, 2019

      EOIR Director's "no dark courtrooms" policy to max out courtroom space

      Hearings and Adjudications EOIR Final/Actual Agency DirectiveChange in Practice

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
    2. March 20, 2019

      EOIR relaxes rules on electronic devices in EOIR court space

      Hearings and Adjudications EOIR Final/Actual Agency Directive

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
    3. March 8, 2019

      EOIR Director claims budget woes, gets scolded for not telling Congress

      Hearings and Adjudications EOIR Reported Change in Practice

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
  1. February 2019

    1. February 12, 2019

      ICE issues guidance on Migrant Protection Protocols (MPP)

      BorderAsylum, Withholding and CAT ICEEOIR Final/ActualIn Litigation Agency Directive

      Current Status

      Partially in effect
  1. December 2018

    1. December 21, 2018

      EOIR issues guidance on Pereira v. Sessions, announcing changes in NTA filings and case scheduling

      Hearings and Adjudications EOIRUSCISICECBP Final/ActualIn Litigation Change in Practice

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
    2. December 21, 2018

      EOIR Director sets case completion goals for OCAHO

      Hearings and Adjudications EOIR Final/Actual Agency Directive

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
    3. December 19, 2018

      EOIR issues IJ guidance on credible fear hearings following Grace v. Whitaker

      Hearings and Adjudications USCISEOIR Final/Actual Agency Directive

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
    4. December 19, 2018

      EOIR Director reinforces employees' duty to report suspected fraud in court proceedings

      Hearings and Adjudications EOIR Final/Actual Agency Directive

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
    5. December 18, 2018

      EOIR Director orders more aggressive reporting of ineffective assistance of counsel and attorney misconduct

      Hearings and Adjudications EOIR Final/Actual Agency Directive

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
  1. November 2018

    1. November 30, 2018

      ACIJ directs NYC IJs to complete family cases within 365 days

      Hearings and Adjudications ICEEOIR Final/Actual Agency Directive

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
    2. November 19, 2018

      EOIR Director orders IJs to adjudicate asylum claims within 180 days

      Asylum, Withholding and CAT ICEEOIR Final/Actual Agency Directive
    3. November 16, 2018

      EOIR Director orders courts to track 'family unit' cases, complete them within a year

      Hearings and Adjudications EOIR Final/Actual Agency Directive

      Current Status

      Partially in effect
    4. November 13, 2018

      EOIR issues guidance on denying asylum to southern border EWIs

      Hearings and Adjudications EOIR Final/Actual Agency Directive
    5. November 9, 2018

      DOJ and DHS issue interim final rule restricting access to asylum for individuals who enter outside recognized POEs

      Asylum, Withholding and CATBorder USCISCBPICEDHSEOIR Final/ActualIn LitigationEnjoined/Vacated Rule
    6. November 9, 2018

      POTUS issues Proclamation 9822 suspending entry across southern border outside ports of entry to bar asylum access

      Asylum, Withholding and CATBorder CBPUSCISICEEOIR Final/ActualIn LitigationEnjoined/Vacated Presidential Orders

      Current Status

      Not in effect
    7. November 8, 2018

      USCIS announces continued implementation of policy memo on NTAs

      Interior USCISICEEOIR Final/Actual Agency Directive

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
    8. November 8, 2018

      EOIR Director issues guidance on new regs implementing the "proclamation-based asylum bar"

      Hearings and Adjudications EOIR Final/Actual Agency Directive
    9. November 7, 2018

      EOIR Director to review all standing policy memos, rescinds four OPPMs

      Hearings and Adjudications EOIR Rescinded Agency Directive

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
  1. October 2018

    1. October 18, 2018

      EOIR plans to modify departure bar rule on motions to reopen / reconsider

      Hearings and Adjudications EOIR In Regulatory Agenda Rule

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
    2. October 18, 2018

      DOJ plans to expand AG certification authority

      Hearings and Adjudications AGEOIR In Regulatory Agenda Rule

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
    3. October 18, 2018

      EOIR plans change to background check regulations

      Hearings and Adjudications EOIR In Regulatory Agenda Rule

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
    4. October 18, 2018

      EOIR to proceed with venue and jurisdiction rule

      Hearings and Adjudications EOIR In Regulatory Agenda Rule

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
    5. October 16, 2018

      Update to BIA Practice Manual imposes page limits on briefs and motions, time limit on briefing extensions

      Hearings and Adjudications EOIR Final/Actual Change in Practice

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
    6. October 15, 2018

      IJ complaint processing moves from EOIR courts to EOIR Director's office

      Hearings and Adjudications EOIR Final/Actual Change in Practice

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
    7. October 12, 2018

      AG Sessions drops Matter of M-G-G-

      Hearings and Adjudications EOIRAG Final/Actual Adjudication

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
  1. September 2018

    1. September 18, 2018

      AG Sessions issues Matter of S-O-G- & F-D-B-, truncating IJs' authority to terminate proceedings

      Hearings and Adjudications EOIRAGICE Final/Actual Adjudication

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
    2. September 16, 2018

      Report that ICE issues NTAs with incorrect hearing dates

      InteriorHearings and Adjudications ICEEOIR ReportedIn Litigation Change in Practice
    3. September 13, 2018

      AG Sessions issues litigation guidelines for opposing nationwide injunctions

      Hearings and Adjudications AGDOJ Final/Actual Agency Directive

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
    4. September 11, 2018

      ICE is reportedly increasing use of video conferencing at immigration court

      InteriorHearings and Adjudications ICEEOIR Reported Change in Practice

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
    5. September 1, 2018

      EOIR issues revised Uniform Docketing System Manual

      Hearings and Adjudications EOIRDOJ Final/Actual Agency DirectiveChange in Practice

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
  1. August 2018

    1. August 31, 2018

      DOJ subpoenas North Carolina voting records at ICE request

      Enforcement ICEDOJ Adjudication

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
    2. August 16, 2018

      AG Sessions issues Matter of L-A-B-R-, restricting continuances

      Hearings and Adjudications EOIRAGICE Final/Actual Adjudication

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
    3. August 16, 2018

      DOJ proposes to collect human trafficking data from state and territory AG offices

      U/T/VAWA DOJ Final/Actual Forms and Information Collection

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
  1. July 2018

    1. July 31, 2018

      DOL and DOJ increase collaboration on employer discrimination and abuse

      Workplace EnforcementEmployment Verification IERDOL Final/Actual Change in Practice

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
    2. July 24, 2018

      DOJ directs public information offices to use the term "illegal alien"

      Enforcement DOJ Final/Actual Change in Practice

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
    3. July 20, 2018

      DOJ issues FY18 solicitation for Byrne JAG grants with new "conditions"

      Sanctuary Restrictions DOJState & Local Entities Final/ActualIn LitigationEnjoined/Vacated Agency Directive

      Current Status

      Not in effect
    4. July 19, 2018

      EOIR launches electronic filing pilot program, starting with San Diego immigration court

      Hearings and Adjudications EOIR Final/Actual Change in Practice

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
    5. July 11, 2018

      ICE issues guidance for OPLA attorneys on litigating asylum claims after Matter of A-B-

      Asylum, Withholding and CAT USCISICEEOIR Final/ActualIn LitigationEnjoined/Vacated Agency Directive
    6. July 10, 2018

      DHS issues a four-step process for family reunification to comply with court order

      EnforcementHearings and Adjudications AGICEORR Final/Actual Agency Directive

      Current Status

      Not in effect
    7. July 3, 2018

      AG Sessions rescinds 24 guidance documents, including guidance discouraging employers from discriminating against asylees and refugees

      RefugeesAsylum, Withholding and CATSanctuary Restrictions DOJ Final/Actual Change in Practice

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
  1. June 2018

    1. June 28, 2018

      New Jersey IJs issue notices on asylum, withholding, and CAT relief applicants on Matter of A-B-

      Asylum, Withholding and CAT EOIRICE Final/ActualIn LitigationEnjoined/Vacated Agency Directive
    2. June 28, 2018

      DOJ issues new immigration-related conditions for FY 2018 Byrne/JAG grants

      Sanctuary Restrictions DOJICEState & Local Entities Final/ActualIn LitigationEnjoined/Vacated Change in Practice

      Current Status

      Not in effect
    3. June 25, 2018

      EOIR pilots electronic filing

      Hearings and Adjudications EOIR Final/Actual Change in Practice

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
    4. June 25, 2018

      Government delays credible fear interviews for asylum seekers

      Hearings and AdjudicationsBorderAsylum, Withholding and CATDetention DHSCBPICEEOIR Final/ActualIn LitigationReplaced Change in Practice

      Current Status

      Not in effect
    5. June 23, 2018

      ICE designates special facility and policies for reunification and removal of separated families

      DetentionMinors EOIRICEORR Final/Actual Agency Directive

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
    6. June 21, 2018

      DOJ requests relief from Flores settlement in order to detain children in family facilities

      Hearings and Adjudications DOJ In Litigation Change in Practice

      Current Status

      Not in effect
    7. June 21, 2018

      CBP announces end to family separations based on border prosecutions

      Border CBPICEEOIRORRDOD Final/Actual Agency Directive

      Current Status

      Partially in effect
    8. June 20, 2018

      POTUS issues EO 13841, directing families to be detained together and seeking modification of Flores settlement.

      DetentionBorderMinors CBPICEORRDODEOIR Final/Actual Presidential Orders
    9. June 7, 2018

      ICE reportedly transfers 1,600 detainees into federal prisons

      Detention ICEDOJ Reported Change in Practice

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
  1. May 2018

    1. May 22, 2018

      DOJ seeks comment on proposal that OVC grantees must use TIMS, an electronic database

      EnforcementHumanitarian DOJ Final/Actual Forms and Information Collection

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
    2. May 17, 2018

      AG Sessions issues Matter of Castro-Tum, restricting administrative closure

      Hearings and Adjudications EOIRAGUSCISICE Final/Actual Adjudication
    3. May 15, 2018

      HHS proposes expanded background checks and information sharing for sponsors of unaccompanied children

      MinorsInterior ORRICECBPDOJ Final/Actual Change in Practice

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
    4. May 11, 2018

      DOJ and USCIS increase cooperation to detect fraud by employers

      Workplace EnforcementEmployment Verification USCISIER Final/Actual Agency Directive

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
    5. May 9, 2018

      EOIR releases immigration court statistics through Q2 of FY18

      Asylum, Withholding and CATMinorsHearings and Adjudications EOIR Final/Actual Data and Reports

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
    6. May 2, 2018

      DOJ announces additional prosecutors and IJs for southwest border

      Hearings and Adjudications EOIRDOJ Final/Actual Change in Practice

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
  1. April 2018

    1. April 27, 2018

      CBP's metering policy is confirmed through litigation

      Asylum, Withholding and CATBorder CBPUSCISEOIR Final/ActualIn LitigationEnjoined/Vacated Agency DirectiveChange in Practice
    2. April 17, 2018

      Whistleblowers allege DOJ blocks hiring of IJs and Board Members on ideological and political grounds

      Hearings and Adjudications EOIR Reported Change in Practice

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
    3. April 13, 2018

      DOJ demands evidence of compliance with 8 U.S.C. § 1373 from three jurisdictions

      Sanctuary Restrictions DOJState & Local Entities Final/ActualIn Litigation Agency DirectiveForms and Information Collection

      Current Status

      Not in effect
    4. April 11, 2018

      EOIR reportedly plans to halt LOP

      Hearings and Adjudications EOIR Final/Actual Program Termination

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
    5. April 6, 2018

      POTUS issues memorandum ending "catch and release" at the border

      Border CBPICEUSCISORRAG Final/Actual Presidential Orders
    6. April 6, 2018

      DOJ announces "zero tolerance" policy on Southwest border

      Border CBPAG Final/Actual Agency Directive
    7. April 6, 2018

      Government delays bond hearings for asylum seekers

      DetentionAsylum, Withholding and CATHearings and AdjudicationsBorder DHSCBPICEEOIRAG Final/ActualIn Litigation Change in Practice

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
    8. Current Status

      Fully in Effect
  1. March 2018

    1. March 30, 2018

      EOIR imposes IJ quotas and deadlines

      Hearings and Adjudications EOIR Final/Actual Change in Practice

      Current Status

      Partially in effect
    2. March 27, 2018

      DOJ reaches agreement with West Palm Beach over 8 U.S.C. § 1373 compliance

      Sanctuary Restrictions DOJState & Local Entities Final/Actual Agency DirectiveForms and Information Collection

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
    3. March 26, 2018

      Commerce Department announces addition of citizenship question to 2020 Census

      Citizenship DOJOther In LitigationEnjoined/VacatedRescinded Change in PracticeData and Reports

      Current Status

      Not in effect
    4. March 19, 2018

      EOIR requests comments on proposed e-filing portal for OCAHO

      Hearings and Adjudications EOIR Proposed Forms and Information Collection
    5. March 7, 2018

      AG Sessions issues Matter of A-B-, restricting asylum claims based on domestic or gang violence

      Asylum, Withholding and CATHearings and Adjudications EOIRAGICEUSCIS Final/ActualIn LitigationEnjoined/Vacated Adjudication
    6. Current Status

      Not in effect
    7. Current Status

      Fully in Effect
  1. February 2018

    1. February 27, 2018

      EOIR expands BIA to 21 judges

      Hearings and Adjudications EOIR Final/Actual Rule
    2. February 8, 2018

      ICE and CBP reportedly separating family members

      Border CBPAG Reported Change in Practice
    3. February 6, 2018

      POTUS issues memorandum ordering creation of a National Vetting Center

      Enforcement DOSDHSDOJDODOther Final/Actual Presidential Orders

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
  1. January 2018

    1. January 29, 2018

      DHS announces new extreme vetting measures for refugees

      Refugees Bureau of Population, Refugees, and MigrationUSCISDOJOther Final/Actual Change in Practice

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
    2. January 29, 2018

      DOJ increases civil penalties, in line with inflation, for employers of undocumented immigrants

      Workplace EnforcementEmployment Verification ICEIER Final/Actual Rule

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
    3. January 24, 2018

      DOJ demands documents from cities regarding information sharing with DHS and DOJ

      Interior AG Final/Actual Forms and Information Collection
    4. January 17, 2018

      EOIR Director issues directives on case priorities and IJ performance metrics

      Hearings and Adjudications EOIR Final/Actual Agency Directive

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
    5. January 17, 2018

      EOIR issues guidance on change of venue

      Hearings and Adjudications EOIR Final/Actual Agency Directive

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
  1. December 2017

    1. Current Status

      Not in effect
    2. December 20, 2017

      EOIR cuts back on child-friendly practices in immigration court

      Hearings and Adjudications EOIR Final/Actual Agency Directive
    3. December 20, 2017

      EOIR issues new guidance on cases subject to the cancellation/suspension cap

      Hearings and Adjudications EOIR Final/Actual Agency Directive

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
    4. December 5, 2017

      DOJ provides backgrounder on EOIR’s strategic caseload reduction plan

      Hearings and Adjudications EOIR Final/Actual Change in Practice

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
    5. Current Status

      Fully in Effect
  1. November 2017

    1. November 15, 2017

      DOJ warns 29 jurisdictions about losing Byrne JAG funds for non-compliance with § 1373

      Sanctuary Restrictions DOJState & Local Entities Final/ActualIn LitigationEnjoined/Vacated Agency Directive
  1. October 2017

    1. October 24, 2017

      POTUS issues EO 13815, announcing resumption of refugee admissions with new extreme vetting procedures

      Refugees Bureau of Population, Refugees, and MigrationUSCISDOJ Final/Actual Presidential Orders
    2. October 12, 2017

      DOJ finds five jurisdictions not in compliance with § 1373, gives time to respond

      Sanctuary Restrictions DOJState & Local Entities Final/ActualIn Litigation Agency Directive

      Current Status

      Not in effect
    3. October 10, 2017

      DOJ and DOS sign agreement on employer visa misconduct

      EnforcementWorkplace EnforcementEmployment Verification IERBureau of Consular Affairs Final/Actual Agency Directive

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
    4. October 8, 2017

      DOJ/DHS plan to hire additional immigration judges and ICE attorneys

      Interior ICEEOIR Final/Actual Agency Directive

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
    5. October 8, 2017

      White House releases details on border security principles and policies

      Border CBPICEUSCISEOIR Final/Actual Presidential Orders

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
  1. September 2017

    1. September 19, 2017

      DOJ files denaturalization complaints against 3 U.S. citizens

      Citizenship USCISDOJ Final/Actual Change in Practice

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
  1. August 2017

    1. August 16, 2017

      ORR announces Community Safety Initiative to review unaccompanied minor policies

      MinorsInterior ORRICEDOJState & Local Entities Final/ActualIn Litigation Agency Directive

      Current Status

      Partially in effect
    2. August 8, 2017

      EOIR data shows increase in removal orders in first six months of the Trump Administration

      EnforcementHearings and Adjudications EOIR Final/Actual Data and Reports

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
    3. August 3, 2017

      DOJ announces it will withhold Public Safety Partnership funds from sanctuary jurisdictions

      Sanctuary Restrictions DOJState & Local Entities Final/Actual Change in Practice

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
  1. July 2017

    1. July 31, 2017

      EOIR discourages IJs from granting continuances

      Hearings and Adjudications EOIR Final/Actual Agency Directive

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
    2. July 25, 2017

      DOJ issues new conditions for FY 2017 Byrne JAG grants to "sanctuary" jurisdictions

      Sanctuary Restrictions AGICEState & Local Entities Final/ActualIn Litigation Agency Directive

      Current Status

      Not in effect
  1. May 2017

    1. May 22, 2017

      AG Sessions implements Executive Order banning sanctuary city funding

      Sanctuary Restrictions DOJICEState & Local Entities Final/ActualIn LitigationEnjoined/Vacated Agency DirectiveChange in Practice

      Current Status

      Not in effect
    2. May 2, 2017

      DOJ requests comments on Form EOIR-27, Notice of Entry of Appearance before BIA

      HumanitarianHearings and Adjudications EOIR Final/Actual Forms and Information Collection

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
  1. April 2017

    1. April 21, 2017

      DOJ conditions grant funds on compliance with 8 U.S.C. § 1373

      Sanctuary Restrictions DOJICEState & Local Entities Final/Actual Agency Directive
    2. April 11, 2017

      DOJ announces "streamlined" IJ hiring

      Hearings and Adjudications EOIR Final/Actual Change in Practice

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
    3. April 11, 2017

      AG Sessions orders federal prosecutors to give greater priority to criminal immigration violations

      Hearings and Adjudications DOJ Final/Actual Agency Directive

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
    4. April 5, 2017

      EOIR directs NGO to enter formal appearances in immigration court cases

      Hearings and Adjudications EOIR Final/ActualIn LitigationEnjoined/Vacated Change in Practice

      Current Status

      Not in effect
    5. April 3, 2017

      DOJ and DOL warn H-1B employers not to discriminate against U.S. workers

      Non-Immigrant Visas: Employment-BasedEmployment Verification IERDOL Final/Actual Agency Directive

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
  1. March 2017

    1. March 30, 2017

      AG Sessions expands IHP

      Interior EOIRCBPICE Final/Actual Change in Practice

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
    2. March 27, 2017

      AG Sessions warns sanctuary jurisdictions to certify compliance with 8 U.S.C. § 1373 or lose DOJ grants

      Sanctuary RestrictionsInterior DOJICEState & Local Entities Final/Actual Agency Directive
    3. March 24, 2017

      EOIR announces new hearing locations: Cibola and Alvarado

      Hearings and Adjudications EOIR Final/Actual Change in Practice

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
    4. March 17, 2017

      EOIR deploys IJs to implement Executive Orders re southern border

      Hearings and Adjudications EOIR Final/Actual Change in Practice

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
    5. March 6, 2017

      President issues memo implementing heightened vetting of visa applications and reporting requirements

      RefugeesNon-Immigrant Visas Bureau of Consular AffairsBureau of Population, Refugees, and MigrationORRUSCISDHSDOJ Final/Actual Presidential Orders
  1. February 2017

    1. February 21, 2017

      AG Sessions rescinds order phasing out BOP-contracted private prisons

      Enforcement DOJ Final/Actual Agency Directive

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
    2. February 9, 2017

      POTUS issues EO 13773, prioritizing enforcement against transnational crime

      Enforcement DOSDOJICECBP Final/Actual Presidential Orders

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
    3. February 9, 2017

      POTUS issues EO 13776, creating task force on "illegal immigration"

      Enforcement DOJAG Final/Actual Presidential Orders

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
  1. January 2017

    1. January 31, 2017

      EOIR announces revised case processing priorities

      Hearings and Adjudications EOIR Final/Actual Agency Directive

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
    2. January 25, 2017

      POTUS issues EO 13768, broadly expanding enforcement priorities and mandating enhancements to interior enforcement

      DetentionInteriorSanctuary Restrictions AGDOSICE Final/ActualIn Litigation Presidential Orders