Immigrants Affected by Travel Ban Sue Federal Government Over Pause in Case Processing

Nearly 200 immigrants, including six from Massachusetts, have filed a federal lawsuit against the U.S. government over a sudden pause in processing green cards, citizenship applications, and asylum petitions. The pause was announced by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) shortly after the Trump administration expanded travel restrictions to 39 countries—20 of them facing partial restrictions.

Why USCIS Paused Green Card Processing for Travel Ban Countries

USCIS has paused the processing of green card applications for individuals from countries subject to the travel ban to ensure that all applicants are thoroughly vetted before being allowed to enter or remain in the United States. The agency stated that the pause allows it to review and strengthen security screenings for people from the affected countries. According to the Department of Homeland Security, the temporary halt is intended to maximize the effectiveness of background checks and other vetting procedures, with the goal of protecting public safety while the agency implements the updated immigration restrictions.

Unfortunately, the pause affects thousands of immigrants nationwide who are actively pursuing immigration benefits.

Government Pause Violates Immigration Law and Delays Applications

The lawsuit argues that the government’s action violates immigration law by stopping cases for people who have already met eligibility requirements and passed extensive background checks. Plaintiffs maintain that the pause unfairly delays or blocks their path toward permanent residency or citizenship, undermining long-standing legal procedures for immigration benefits.

Those affected had completed most of the necessary steps in their applications before the pause took effect. The judge is expected to rule quickly, possibly within the next few weeks, to determine whether processing of their applications should continue.

The Department of Homeland Security has defended the pause, saying it is within the President’s authority to manage immigration and that it is intended to ensure all applicants are fully vetted. DHS has said the pause will remain in effect while the agency reviews applications to maximize security screening, with public safety described as the primary concern.

How the court rules could have far-reaching consequences for thousands of immigrants nationwide who face similar delays, and underscores the challenges that arise when executive actions affect people’s lives without adequate consideration.

The Law Offices of Jacob J. Sapochnick will monitor the situation and provide updates on the latest developments as they become available.

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