Is Donald Trump deporting immigrants in West Virginia?

The landscape of immigration enforcement in West Virginia has undergone significant changes under President Donald Trump’s administration. These developments have raised concerns among immigrant communities regarding increased deportations and stricter immigration policies. Understanding these changes and knowing your rights is crucial for navigating this evolving environment.

Trump’s Immigration Policies and Their Impact

In January 2025, President Trump signed Executive Order 14159, titled “Protecting The American People Against Invasion.” This order expanded the use of expedited removal, allowing for the deportation of individuals without a court hearing, and increased the hiring of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and Customs and Border Protection (CBP) agents. It also called for the expansion of Section 287(g) agreements, enabling state and local law enforcement to assist in federal immigration enforcement. (en.wikipedia.org)

In West Virginia, Governor Patrick Morrisey has aligned state policies with federal directives. In January 2025, he ordered all state law enforcement agencies to cooperate with ICE in removing undocumented immigrants with criminal backgrounds. By February, West Virginia signed a letter of intent to join the 287(g) program, allowing state correctional officers to transport criminal aliens into federal custody without direct supervision of an ICE agent, thereby expediting the deportation process. (governor.wv.gov, governor.wv.gov)

What This Means for Immigrants in West Virginia

These policy changes have led to increased immigration enforcement activities in West Virginia. As of January 30, 2025, at least 72 individuals in the state were detained for residing in the country without proper documentation. (westvirginiawatch.com) The collaboration between state law enforcement and federal immigration authorities means that immigrants in West Virginia may face heightened scrutiny and an increased risk of detention and deportation.

Why Do Immigrants Face Delays When Married to a U.S. Citizen?

Many immigrants have lived in the U.S. for years—sometimes decades—without legal status due to fear of immigration enforcement or misinformation about their eligibility to adjust status. This fear prevents them from seeking legal pathways to residency, even when they qualify.

Although the marriage-based green card process is often thought to be straightforward, many factors can cause delays, such as:

• Backlogged Processing Times: Due to high demand, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) often experiences delays in processing green card applications.
• Security and Background Checks: Additional screenings for national security or prior immigration violations can prolong the process.
• Request for Evidence (RFE): If an application is incomplete or USCIS needs further documentation, this can significantly delay approval.
• In-Person Interviews: Some applicants are required to attend interviews at local USCIS offices, which may have long scheduling wait times.
• Public Charge Rules: Financial support requirements must be met, and some cases require additional proof of sufficient income.

However, spouses of U.S. citizens are afforded certain protections under immigration law and may be eligible to adjust their status even if they initially entered the country without proper documentation. Consulting an immigration attorney can help spouses of U.S. citizens understand their legal options, file the necessary paperwork correctly, and avoid unnecessary delays or denials.

601 and 601A Waivers: Overcoming Immigration Barriers

For many immigrants facing deportation or inadmissibility, 601 and 601A waivers can provide a path to legal status in the U.S. These waivers help individuals who are otherwise ineligible for a green card due to unlawful presence or other immigration violations.

• 601 Waiver: This waiver is used for individuals who have been deemed inadmissible due to unlawful presence, criminal history, or misrepresentation. It allows them to apply for a waiver to overcome these grounds of inadmissibility if they can prove that their U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident spouse or parent would suffer extreme hardship if they were not allowed to remain in the U.S.
• 601A Provisional Waiver: This waiver is specifically for individuals who are only inadmissible due to unlawful presence in the U.S. It allows applicants to obtain a waiver before leaving the U.S. for consular processing, reducing the risk of prolonged separation from their families.

Applying for these waivers requires strong documentation, legal expertise, and a compelling case demonstrating hardship. Working with an experienced immigration attorney can greatly improve the chances of approval and ensure the correct forms and evidence are submitted.

How KVisaXpress Can Help

Given the intensified enforcement in West Virginia, consulting with an experienced immigration attorney is more important than ever. KVisaXpress can:

• Assess Eligibility Based on Your Entry and Marriage: We analyze your immigration history and marriage details to determine the best path forward.
• Zealously Review Financial Documents to Ensure Your Spouse Can Sponsor You: We carefully examine income and financial documents to ensure they meet sponsorship requirements and avoid complications.
• Assist with Documentation: Ensure all paperwork is accurately completed and submitted on time.
• Provide Guidance and Support: Help you understand the legal process and prepare for interviews or hearings.

If you or a loved one are concerned about your immigration status in West Virginia, call us today (800)650-9097 for a free consultation with Chelsea E. Walker to discuss your options.

Looking for Immigration Help in West Virginia?

If you need legal assistance, consider reaching out to reputable immigration law firms serving areas such as:

• Morgantown
• Huntington
• Charleston
• Martinsburg
• Parkersburg
• Princeton
• Wheeling
• Point Pleasant
• Beckley
• Fayetteville
• Buckhannon
• Charles Town

Partnering with KVixaXpress, a firm familiar with West Virginia’s legal landscape, can provide tailored support and representation.

Final Thoughts

The recent policy shifts have created a more challenging environment for immigrants in West Virginia. Staying informed about your rights and seeking professional legal assistance can help you navigate this complex landscape. If you have concerns about your immigration status or potential deportation, don’t hesitate to reach out to experienced immigration law firm, KVisaXpress, for guidance and support.

Need Legal Assistance? Call 800-650-9097

Contact us today for a confidential consultation to discuss your immigration concerns and explore the best legal options for your situation.