📅 2026 Update: Changes in Immigration Fees and Policies

These changes may affect the options available to non-citizens facing deportation due to criminal offenses. The article below continues to address the various criminal offenses that can lead to deportation and their consequences.

💵 Annual Asylum Fee

On October 1, 2025, the U.S. This fee is significant because it adds an extra financial burden to asylum seekers.

The fee may impact those who have been convicted of crimes, as they may struggle to pay while dealing with their immigration status.

🚨 Fee Increase for Form I-246

As of May 7, 2026, the proposed fee for Form I-246, which is used to apply for a stay of deportation, will increase from $155 to $755. This substantial rise aims to cover the costs of processing these applications. Individuals facing deportation may find this fee challenging, especially if they are already experiencing financial difficulties due to their immigration situation.

🌍 Termination of Temporary Protected Status for Ethiopia

On December 15, 2025, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) announced the termination of Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Ethiopia. This change will take effect on February 13, 2026. For individuals from Ethiopia who may have relied on TPS as a safe haven, this could lead to increased risks of deportation if they have been convicted of crimes or are otherwise in violation of immigration laws.

⚖️ Immigration Enforcement and Processing Changes

The enforcement of immigration laws continues to be a focus for the current administration. Non-citizens with criminal records face heightened scrutiny during immigration proceedings. The increased use of expedited removal allows immigration officials to quickly deport individuals without a hearing before an immigration judge.

This process can complicate the defense against deportation, particularly for those with criminal convictions.

📜 Free Legal Assistance Options

For individuals facing deportation, various free or low-cost legal services are available. Nonprofits and legal aid organizations can provide support to those dealing with immigration issues related to criminal offenses.

🚨 Termination of Temporary Protected Status (TPS)

The termination of Temporary Protected Status can significantly impact non-citizens facing deportation. For instance, on December 15, 2025, the DHS announced the end of TPS for Ethiopia, effective February 13, 2026. This decision means that individuals who relied on this status for legal protection may now be vulnerable to deportation.

Those affected should be aware of their options and seek assistance. Understanding the implications of TPS termination is crucial for navigating their immigration status and potential legal proceedings.

📌 Key Points

  • 🔹 Annual Asylum Fee of $100 now required for pending applications.
  • 🔹 Proposed fee increase for Form I-246 from $155 to $755 as of May 2026.
  • 🔹 Termination of TPS for Ethiopia effective February 13, 2026.
  • 🔹 Increased immigration enforcement and expedited removal processes.
  • 🔹 Options for free legal assistance are available for those facing deportation.

💡 Tips for Non-Citizens Facing Deportation

📅 Understand Recent Changes in Fees

Be aware of the new Annual Asylum Fee of $100 for pending asylum applications. This fee applies to each calendar year your application remains pending and adds financial strain for those already facing legal challenges. The proposed fee increase for Form I-246 from $155 to $755 also significantly impacts those seeking a stay of deportation.

⚖️ Know the Criminal Offenses

Familiarize yourself with the types of criminal offenses that can lead to deportation. Crimes of Moral Turpitude and Aggravated Felonies are serious offenses under U.S. immigration law. Understanding how these categories apply to your situation can help you prepare your case better.

🌍 Impact of TPS Terminations

If you are from Ethiopia, note that Temporary Protected Status (TPS) will terminate on February 13, 2026. This change may put those who relied on TPS at risk of deportation if they are also facing criminal charges or immigration violations. Make sure to explore your options promptly.

📜 Seek Free Legal Assistance

Look for nonprofit organizations that offer free or low-cost legal services. These organizations can help you navigate complicated immigration laws and provide support for your case. They may also offer resources on how to prepare for your hearing.

🚨 Be Prepared for Immigration Enforcement

Immigration laws continue to tighten, leading to increased enforcement actions. Be aware that expedited removal processes have become more common, which allows for quicker deportations without a hearing. Being prepared and knowing your rights can be crucial in these situations.

🆓 Voluntary Departure Options

Voluntary departure allows certain individuals to leave the U.S. without a formal deportation order. This option can be beneficial for non-citizens who want to avoid the long-term consequences of deportation. It may help preserve future immigration opportunities.

To request voluntary departure, individuals typically need to demonstrate good moral character and that they are eligible under U.S. immigration law. This request can be made during removal proceedings, and it’s essential to act quickly to avoid missing any deadlines.

Utilizing voluntary departure can provide a way to leave the country on more favorable terms. It may allow for easier reentry in the future, compared to facing a permanent ban due to a deportation order.

🏆 Immigration Support Services Ranked by User Reviews (2026)

These services help individuals navigate complex immigration processes, including applications for asylum, stays of deportation, and legal support.

Typically, unhappy customers tend to leave more reviews, so the number of reviews can vary widely among different services.

🥇 1. GovAssist LLC

GovAssist LLC holds a Trustpilot score of 4.3. This service has been known for providing visa consulting, application assistance, and document preparation. Given the complexities surrounding immigration and potential deportation, their offerings can be particularly valuable for non-citizens navigating the legal landscape.

However, some users report delays in response times, which could impact urgent cases.

🥈 2. Boundless Immigration

Boundless Immigration enjoys a high Trustpilot score of 4.8. Reviewers appreciate its focus on immigration application assistance and document preparation. This service aims to expedite processes, which can be crucial for individuals facing deportation.

Nevertheless, some users mention limited customer support availability, which may be a concern for those needing timely guidance.

🥉 3. Lawfully

Lawfully averages a Trustpilot score of 4.8. It is recognized for its immigration case tracking and document preparation capabilities. This can be especially helpful for non-citizens involved in deportation proceedings, as tracking case progress is essential.

Still, some users have reported occasional inaccuracies in case predictions, which could lead to unexpected outcomes.

4️⃣ CitizenPath Immigration Services

For those at risk of deportation, easy-to-use tools and resources can reduce confusion and anxiety.

A caveat is that some users mention technical issues with the platform, which could hinder the application process.

5️⃣ Translayte

This service specializes in translation and notarization services, which are critical for non-citizens needing accurate documentation for immigration purposes. Clear communication is essential when dealing with legal matters, especially in cases that may lead to deportation.

🆓 Free Legal Assistance Options

There are various nonprofit organizations and legal aid services available that provide free or low-cost legal assistance to individuals facing deportation. These organizations can help with navigating immigration laws, understanding rights, and preparing for hearings. They may also offer resources specifically related to criminal offenses and immigration, which can be beneficial for those in vulnerable situations.

🔎 Key Factors to Compare When Choosing Immigration Support Services

  • 🔍 Trustpilot score and number of reviews
  • 📄 Types of services offered related to deportation and immigration
  • ⏳ Response time and customer support availability
  • 💰 Pricing and potential fee waivers for those in need
  • 📈 Success rates and user satisfaction with outcomes

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

❓ What is the Annual Asylum Fee?

The Annual Asylum Fee (AAF) is a fee of $100 that individuals with pending asylum applications must pay for each year their application remains pending. This fee was implemented on October 1, 2025, by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).

💵 How much is the fee for Form I-246?

As of May 7, 2026, the proposed fee for Form I-246, which is the Application for a Stay of Deportation or Removal, is $755. This is a significant increase from the previous fee of $155, which had not been updated since 1989.

🚨 What happens if my Temporary Protected Status (TPS) is terminated?

If your TPS is terminated, you may be at risk of deportation, especially if you have criminal charges or immigration violations. For example, Ethiopia's TPS designation was terminated effective February 13, 2026, affecting individuals who relied on this status for legal protection.

🕒 How long does it take to process Form I-589?

Applicants should check the USCIS Processing Times webpage for the most current information.

📜 Can I request a fee waiver for immigration forms?

Certain individuals may qualify for fee waivers for specific immigration forms. To determine eligibility, you can review Form I-912, Request for Fee Waiver, which outlines the criteria for obtaining a waiver.

🆓 Where can I find free legal assistance for immigration issues?

Various nonprofit organizations and legal aid services provide free or low-cost legal assistance to individuals facing deportation. These resources can help you understand your rights and prepare for hearings related to your immigration case.

⚖️ Recent Cases Related to Deportation

Recent court rulings have addressed various issues surrounding deportation cases, especially those involving criminal offenses. These decisions can significantly impact non-citizens facing removal from the United States.

For more information about recent rulings that may affect deportation cases, you can check more rulings on the news page.

End of October 2026 Update





Criminal offenses can have a devastating impact on an individual's life, including their ability to remain in the United States. Immigration law provides for deportation of non-citizens who engage in certain criminal activities. But what are criminal offenses that could lead to deportation?

This article will explore the various crimes that can trigger deportation and the consequences that non-citizens face if convicted of these crimes. We will also look at how the current administration is dealing with immigration laws and deportation.

What is deportation?

What are Criminal Offenses on Deportation?

Deportation is the process of removing an immigrant from the country. It is a permanent ban on entering the United States and could mean the separation of an individual from their family members and friends. Deportation is often the consequence of violating an immigration law or committing a crime that is outlined in the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA).

What is the Immigration and Nationality Act?

The INA is a federal law that governs immigration policies in the United States. It outlines the types of visas that are available to immigrants and the grounds for inadmissibility, removal, and deportation. The Act also defines what constitutes a criminal offense that can trigger deportation.

The INA divides criminal offenses into two categories, Crimes of Moral Turpitude (CIMT) and Aggravated Felonies (AF). Let's take a closer look at each of these offenses.

Crimes of Moral Turpitude (CIMT)

Crimes of moral turpitude (CIMT) are offenses that involve dishonesty, fraud, or intent to harm. These types of crimes can lead to deportation regardless of the severity of the offense. Examples of CIMT include:

- Fraud

- Assault with the intent to cause bodily harm
- Forgery
- Theft
- Prostitution
- Fraudulent use of credit cards
- Crimes related to controlled substances

If an individual is convicted of a CIMT within five years of entering the country, or commits two or more CIMTs at any time after entering the United States, they can be removed from the country.

Aggravated Felonies (AF)

Aggravated felonies (AF) are serious offenses that can result in permanent deportation for a non-citizen. These are offenses that are classified as felonies under state or federal laws. Examples of AF include:

- Rape

- Sexual abuse of a minor
- Murder
- Drug trafficking
- Human trafficking
- Money laundering
- Theft or burglary with a sentence exceeding one year

Under the INA, anyone convicted of an AF after entering the country can be deported, regardless of their immigration status. Even lawful permanent residents, or green card holders, can be deported if they are found guilty of an AF.

📝 See Also

Consequences of Criminal Offenses on Deportation

The consequences of criminal offenses on deportation can be devastating. If an individual is deported, they are not only separated from their family members and friends but also lose any opportunities that may have been available to them in the United States. They may also face challenges in securing a visa or entering the country in the future.

It's important to note that non-citizens who are convicted of a crime can also face detention while their immigration case is under review. In some cases, they may be held until their deportation.

Furthermore, individuals that are in the country illegally or have overstayed their visas, can be placed in removal proceedings and must defend against deportation in immigration courts.

Current Immigration Laws and Deportation

The current administration has continued to strengthen immigration laws and enforcement, making it even more challenging for non-citizens who are convicted of criminal offenses to remain in the country.

For example, in 2018, the Department of Justice (DOJ) issued a memo that changed the way immigration judges review asylum cases. The memo was aimed at making it more challenging for individuals with criminal records to apply for asylum, and it has resulted in a higher number of denials.

In addition, the current administration has increased the use of expedited removal, a process that allows immigration officials to quickly remove an individual without a hearing before an immigration judge.

Recently, the administration has also expanded the use of facial recognition technology for visa applicants and individuals seeking entry into the country. The technology is being used to identify individuals with criminal records more efficiently.

Conclusion

Criminal offenses can have severe consequences for non-citizens in the United States. Under the INA, individuals can face deportation if they are convicted of a Crime of Moral Turpitude or Aggravated Felony. The consequences of deportation can result in a permanent ban on entering the country, separation from family members, and challenges in securing a visa or entering the country in the future.

It's essential to understand the current immigration laws and enforcement policies. The current administration has continued to strengthen immigration laws and enforcement, making it even more challenging for non-citizens convicted of criminal offenses to remain in the country.

If you or someone you know is facing deportation as a result of a criminal offense, it's crucial to seek legal advice from an immigration lawyer who can help you navigate the complex immigration system and protect your rights.

Theoretically, a criminal illegal alien in the United States should not have to be categorized based on the severity of their crime. By the sole virtue of their being in the country illegally, they are criminals, and should be held accountable for their violation of immigration law criminal. Consequently, immigration officials must
decide if the illegal alien who is guilty of a crime should be detained for further processing or allowed to be released back into American society to potentially commit another crime. The ICE works hand in hand with the Executive Office for Immigration Review, a subset of the Department of Justice, to hear criminal immigration cases in one of several immigration courts murder.