Shaping the Future of Immigration
with Insight, Advocacy, and Action
The American Institute for Immigration Law and Policy, Inc. (AIILP) is dedicated to advancing the understanding and development of immigration law and policy in ways that are both rigorous and accessible. We pursue this mission through comprehensive research, careful legal and policy analysis, and wide-ranging educational initiatives that bring clarity to an often complex system.
“The creation of special agents at USCIS blurs the line between service and enforcement, which could reshape the relationship between applicants and the agency.”
USCIS Establishes New “Special Agents” with Enforcement Authority
In mid-September 2025, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) issued a final rule creating a new category of officers within U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) known as “special agents.” Unlike USCIS adjudicators who focus on processing applications, these agents will be granted enforcement authority, including powers to investigate, coordinate with Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), and, in some circumstances, carry out arrests. The regulation is set to take effect on October 6, 2025.
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LATEST FROM AIILP
USCIS Updates Policy: Family-Based Petitions Now Carry NTA Risk
On August 1, 2025, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) released an updated Policy Alert (PA-2025-12) in its Policy Manual regarding family-based immigrant visa petitions, including when interviews are required and when a Notice to Appear (NTA) may be issued.
USCIS Reaffirms Public Charge Inadmissibility Guidance
“For applicants, this means you should show clear proof that you can support yourself or that you have a reliable sponsor who can do so.”
USCIS Expands Social Media Vetting to Include “Anti-American” Activity
“By expanding digital vetting beyond public safety concerns, USCIS is formalizing online behavior as a factor in immigration decisions.”
Mission Statement
Our goal is to provide policymakers, legal practitioners, scholars, community leaders, and the public with the tools they need to shape immigration systems that are fair, just, and effective. We believe that informed decision-making leads to better outcomes, and we are committed to ensuring that the voices and experiences of immigrant communities are reflected in the policies that affect them.
As a nonprofit organization, we exist not only to study immigration but also to support and empower those who live its realities every day. By connecting scholarship with practice and research with advocacy, we seek to foster an immigration system that upholds dignity, strengthens communities, and reflects the values of equity and inclusion at the heart of American society.
The American Institute for Immigration Law and Policy, Inc. is steadfast in its commitment to transforming the landscape of immigration law and policy. At the heart of our mission lies a dedication to fostering a deeper understanding of immigration systems, recognizing the complexities that come with legal, social, and cultural dimensions. By conducting rigorous research and comprehensive analysis, we aim to provide clarity on pressing immigration issues and offer solutions that are not only practical but also just and equitable.
Our Commitment
We conduct in-depth legal and policy studies to unravel the complexities of immigration systems. By providing evidence-based insights, we help shape effective policies that address real-world challenges and promote fairness and justice in immigration practices.
Evidence-Based Research
Our programs include engaging seminars, hands-on workshops, and insightful publications aimed at educating and empowering policymakers, legal professionals, scholars, and the general public. These initiatives foster a deeper understanding of immigration issues and equip stakeholders with the knowledge needed to drive meaningful change.
Education and Outreach
We advocate for equitable immigration policies by working closely with stakeholders, participating in legislative processes, and amplifying the voices of affected communities. Through interdisciplinary collaboration with experts in law, economics, and social sciences, we develop holistic solutions that reflect the multifaceted nature of immigration.