📝 Tougher travel and border-exit/entry procedures
As of December 26, 2025, the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) — under the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) — will begin mandatory biometric screening (including photographs and fingerprint/ facial-recognition data) for all non–U.S. citizens, including green card holders.
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That means whenever you enter or leave the United States, you’ll likely be photographed.
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Previous partial exemptions (e.g. children under 14 or adults over 79) no longer apply.
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The DHS says the goal is to improve identity verification, prevent fraud or visa overstays, and tighten overall border security.
✅ What this means for you: Traveling — especially international travel — may involve longer processing times at airports and border crossings. Be sure to carry your green card and any required documentation, and plan for possible delays or extra screening.
🔍 Heightened scrutiny — re-examination of many existing Green Cards
In late November 2025, the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) announced a re-examination of all green cards issued to individuals from certain nations deemed “countries of concern.” This action follows a federal directive and is part of a broader immigration enforcement push.
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The review applies not just to new applications — but to many people who already hold green cards.
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The stated aim is “rigorous vetting” for national-security reasons.
✅ What this means for you: If you are from an affected country (or know someone who is), your green card could be subject to additional review or verification — possibly affecting travel plans, re-entry, or even status, depending on the result.
📄 Changes in application procedures for new green cards (especially family-based petitions)
For those currently applying — or helping a family member apply — the process has become more stringent in 2025. The USCIS has updated various forms used in family-based green card petitions (for example, the version of Form I-485 required for marriage-based green cards changed in April 2025).
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The new forms include stronger warnings about marriage fraud and more thorough verification requirements.
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Using an outdated form edition can lead to rejections or delays.
✅ What this means for you: If you are filing now (or know someone who is), be sure to download and use the latest USCIS forms. Expect possibly additional questions or documentation — and allow extra time for processing.
🤔 What These Changes Mean for Illinois Families and Immigrant Residents
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Travel planning matters more than ever. If you or loved ones with green cards travel internationally (for family visits, work, vacations), you’ll need to be ready for stricter border checks — and maybe longer wait times or extra documentation.
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Be extra vigilant about paperwork. Whether applying for a green card or renewing, make sure you use the correct, up-to-date forms, and keep good records.
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Risk of re-examination if from certain countries. For many immigrants, especially those from countries under scrutiny, there’s increased uncertainty.
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Understand the impact on family applications. If you’re sponsoring a spouse or family member, processing could take longer and the scrutiny may be more intensive than in past years.
🧭 What You Should Do — Steps to Stay Prepared
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Keep your green card, passport, and any relevant immigration documents updated and accessible.
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Before travel: Allow extra time at airports; ensure documents are valid; stay up to date on DHS/USCIS announcements.
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If you’re applying for a green card (or helping a family member): Double-check that you’re using the most recent USCIS forms, and expect more thorough review.
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If you or a loved one might be impacted by re-examination (e.g. from a “country of concern”), consider consulting an immigration-aware attorney for guidance.
At the Law Office of Jonathan W. Cole P.C., we know how stressful immigration changes can be — especially if you’re balancing family, work, and travel. If you or your loved ones have questions about how the 2025 policy updates affect green card status, renewals, or travel, please call us at (708) 529-7794. We’re here to help — “Your Neighborhood Law Firm.”
📞 (708) 529-7794 | Law Office of Jonathan W. Cole P.C. — “Your Neighborhood Law Firm.”
