As 2026 begins, many immigrant families across Los Angeles County, including Granada Hills, the San Fernando Valley, and neighboring communities, are navigating new immigration challenges. At GPV Immigration Law, APC, we are committed to helping you understand policy updates that affect your future. Our goal is to offer trustworthy legal guidance, especially for Spanish-speaking families seeking clarity and peace of mind.
This month’s key changes include:
- SBA cuts off non-US citizens from primary loan program
- A new pause on immigrant visa processing for 75 countries
- Increased ICE enforcement in homes, workplaces, and public spaces
- Extended USCIS wait times for family-based petitions
- Rising premium processing fees starting March 1, 2026
- Removal Defense Updates
Below, we explain how these developments may impact your case and provide a checklist to help you stay organized and informed.
SBA cuts off non-U.S. citizens from the Primary loan program
On February 3, 2026, the Small Business Administration (SBA) announced a significant policy change indicating that certain business loan programs will no longer be available to Lawful Permanent Residents (green card holders) and U.S. nationals not residing in the U.S. While this change is specific to SBA lending criteria, it is an important reminder that federal agencies regularly update policies that can directly or indirectly affect non-citizens.
For green card holders, this is a timely opportunity to reflect on your long-term immigration security. Lawful Permanent Resident status, while stable, is not the same as U.S. citizenship. Individuals with prior criminal issues, questions about past public benefits use, extended trips abroad, or unresolved immigration matters may face closer scrutiny when renewing their green card or interacting with federal agencies.
If you are eligible to apply for U.S. citizenship, now is an excellent time to begin the process. If you are not yet eligible, it is wise to schedule a consultation to review your history and ensure you are in the strongest possible position to protect your status.
Proactive planning today can prevent serious immigration complications tomorrow.
Entry Restrictions Affecting Family-Based Petitions
The U.S. Department of State has announced an indefinite pause on immigrant visa processing for nationals of 75 countries, effective January 21, 2026. This pause may temporarily delay family-based consular processing for certain applicants abroad.
These restrictions apply only to immigrant visas. Temporary nonimmigrant visa categories remain unaffected.
If your loved one is applying from overseas, it is important to check the current Visa Bulletin and stay in communication with the U.S. consulate managing the case. Our team has deep experience navigating consular processing and can help you explore legal strategies when conditions change.
Interior Enforcement in California and Los Angeles County
Recent data shows a sharp increase in ICE arrests, deportations, and detention use across California during 2025. Enforcement activity has become more frequent in and around Los Angeles County, including worksite operations, home encounters, courthouse check-ins, and street-level arrests.
Immigration agents may arrive with either a judicial warrant (signed by a judge) or an administrative warrant (issued by ICE). Understanding the difference is essential for protecting your rights.
Please check out our RESOURCES page tab on our website to obtain "Know Your Rights" Information and Videos; access a Family Preparedness Plan and more. Our firm regularly represents clients in deportation defense and stands ready to help if you or a loved one is placed in removal proceedings.
USCIS Delays, Premium Fee Increases, and Your Checklist
USCIS continues to experience delays across many case types. In some locations, I‑130 processing for immediate relatives may take a year or longer. Timelines vary by case category and service center, so always check the USCIS Processing Times tool for the most current estimate.
Beginning March 1, 2026, premium processing fees will increase. For example, fees for many Form I‑129 and I‑140 petitions will rise from $2,805 to $2,965. Fees for certain I‑539 (student and exchange visas) and I‑765 (work permit) filings will also go up.
These changes are part of a DHS rule intended to adjust for inflation and help USCIS reduce backlogs and maintain timely adjudication services.
Premium processing is optional and available only for certain petitions. It guarantees that USCIS will take action within the specific timeframe listed for that form (often 15 calendar days) if properly submitted with Form I‑907 and the correct fee.
Removal Defense Update: ACA Motions Impacting Asylum Cases
Recent use of Asylum Cooperative Agreements (ACAs) is changing how some asylum cases are handled in immigration court. Government attorneys from the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) are filing Motions to Pretermit, asking judges within the Executive Office for Immigration Review (EOIR) to stop asylum cases before applicants can testify or present evidence.
One agreement frequently cited is with Uganda, with DHS arguing that certain applicants should seek protection there instead of in the United States.
This is a significant shift. Individuals with strong asylum claims may be told they cannot proceed with a full hearing in U.S. court.
Why This Matters
U.S. asylum law guarantees applicants the opportunity to present their claim. These ACA-based motions raise serious legal questions, including:
- Whether the third country will actually accept the person
- Whether that country is safe for the applicant
- Whether DHS can bypass a person’s right to a full asylum hearing
- Whether these policies are being applied to cases filed long before the agreements existed
These issues are now being actively litigated.
How We Are Responding
At GPV Immigration Law, APC, we are addressing these motions with a multi-level strategy:
- Opposing the motion before the Immigration Judge and demanding a full hearing
- Filing immediate appeals with the Board of Immigration Appeals (BIA) when necessary (Form EOIR-26)
- Preparing cases for federal court review when applicants are denied the right to present their claims
Removal defense today requires fast, strategic action at every stage.
Action Items for Clients in Removal Proceedings.
If you are seeking asylum in immigration court, especially from countries being referenced in these agreements:
- Do not ignore any filing from DHS — notify our office immediately if you receive a Motion to Pretermit.
- Keep all your hearing notices and court paperwork organized and accessible.
- Update us right away if you change your address or phone number.
- Be prepared for urgent filings and appeals if the judge rules on one of these motions.
- Schedule a strategy review with our office if you are unsure whether this may affect your case.
These cases move quickly, and early legal response is critical. GPV Immigration Law is ready to stand with you and fight your case at every level of the court system.
Your February Action Checklist:
- Starting a new case? Collect key documents such as birth certificates, passports, marriage licenses, and proof of finances.
- Already filed? Use the MyUSCIS portal or case tracker to monitor your application’s progress.
- Worried about enforcement? Prepare a family plan. Keep original documents in a safe place and make sure trusted relatives know where they are.
- Are you currently in removal proceedings? Set a legal strategy session with our office to discuss today.
If you need help launching a new petition, responding to delays, representation in immigration court or preparing for enforcement risks, GPV Immigration Law, APC is here to guide you. Our bilingual team offers compassionate, experienced representation for families throughout Los Angeles County and beyond.
Because immigration policies change frequently, always confirm current rules and fees before filing or consult with our office directly.
Call (818) 724‑8386 to schedule your consultation.