The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has been authorized to recruit and train classified officers called special agents. This rule was published on September 4, 2025, and it will take effect on October 6, 2025.
The work of these new officers will be to investigate, arrest and present for prosecution individuals who violate U.S. immigration laws. They are allowed to carry firearms, execute search and arrest warrants, conduct vehicular pursuits and use force.
Why is the USCIS adding agents?
The government says that the law change will allow the USCIS to better investigate fraud and address immigration crimes. The agents will handle investigations from start to finish, without referring cases to the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), a decision that is intended to support the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) efforts.
How might it affect applicants for green cards and citizenship?
There are concerns that this law might negatively affect applicants for green cards and citizenship. According to some experts, eligible individuals may be scared of applying because of the possibility that a simple mistake could lead to not just a denial, but an arrest or even deportation.
There is a lot of uncertainty and fear at present among those who do not hold U.S. citizenship, and many people will want to minimize their contact with the USCIS. Feeling unable to ask questions about the process could increase the chances of errors in applications.
It’s important for immigrants who have a green card or citizenship as a goal not to let these changes stop them from pursuing their dreams. Caution may be wise, but an experienced immigration attorney can help you get the information you need and put you in a better position for success with your application.