Policy Blocked by Federal Judge
A federal judge has stopped a Trump administration policy that prevented detained immigrants from completing fingerprint and background checks needed for visas and other legal immigration status. U.S. District Judge Amir H. Ali ruled that the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) failed to properly explain its decision to cease biometric data collection from detained immigrants with pending applications.
The policy, introduced in December 2025, impacted those seeking permanent residency or visas for victims of human trafficking and serious crimes, as well as other humanitarian protections. The decision reestablishes the previous biometric information collection process while a lawsuit against the policy is ongoing.
Trump’s Immigration Crackdown
Throughout his second term, President Donald Trump has intensified efforts to control immigration. These efforts include expanded arrests, deportations, and stricter rules on asylum seekers and legal migration. The Trump administration defends these policies as necessary for border security and public safety. However, numerous policies have faced legal challenges.
Details of the DHS Policy
The policy, announced in December, halted the collection of fingerprints, photographs, and other biometric data from detained immigrants applying for legal status through U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). Biometric data is crucial for verifying identities and conducting background and security checks.
Previously, Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) assisted detained immigrants by facilitating travel to appointments for these checks. The policy’s removal of this responsibility while maintaining rules denying applications for missed appointments posed challenges for detained immigrants.
USCIS claimed the policy aimed to discourage frivolous claims and ensure operational consistency.
Reasons for Blocking the Policy
Six detained immigrants filed a class-action lawsuit in April. They argued that the policy effectively blocked them from completing applications for protective immigration measures available under federal law.
The plaintiffs included survivors of human trafficking, domestic violence, and childhood abuse, among others. Lawyers argued the policy violated federal immigration law, constitutional due process, and the Administrative Procedure Act.
The judge deemed the policy “arbitrary and capricious” due to DHS’s insufficient consideration of its impact. He questioned the administration’s intent to deter fraudulent or frivolous applications, stating that biometric collection aids in establishing applicant eligibility for immigration benefits.
A government attorney, during a hearing, acknowledged lacking a current answer on how the policy met its objectives.
Impact and Reactions
The policy exposed applicants to prolonged detention and possible deportation before evaluating their applications. Several organizations, representing the plaintiffs, welcomed the ruling for addressing an “impossible trap” created by the administration’s policies.
The Trump administration argued that detained immigrants could request ICE to collect biometric data, and some could pursue applications post-deportation.
Future Actions
Judge Ali’s order halts the policy nationwide and reinstates DHS’s obligation to collect biometric data from detained immigrants with pending applications. The ruling does not guarantee visas, immigration status, or release from detention.
DHS must provide a report to the court by October 21, detailing compliance with the order. The lawsuit’s resolution remains pending.