A federal judge in Oregon has struck down a contentious immigration policy enacted during the Trump administration, which prevented Iranian nationals from adjusting their immigration status in the United States.
The ruling, delivered by US District Judge Michael Simon, effectively nullifies the 2020 directive issued by US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). The policy had barred Iranians—even those legally residing in the country—from obtaining green cards or other permanent residency benefits.
Legal Battle and Advocacy
The case was brought forward by the Portland-based nonprofit Innovation Law Lab, alongside several affected individuals. Lawyers argued that the policy unfairly targeted Iranians without proper justification, violating both constitutional and administrative laws.
Judge Simon concurred, stating that the government failed to provide a rational basis for the blanket restriction. "The policy was arbitrary and capricious," he wrote in his decision.
Impact on Iranian Communities
Advocates hailed the ruling as a major win for immigrant rights. Many Iranians, including students, professionals, and families, had been left in legal limbo due to the policy.
- Over 1,000 applications were reportedly stalled under the ban.
- Families faced prolonged separation due to halted visa processing.
- Students and skilled workers were unable to secure permanent residency despite meeting eligibility criteria.
Government Response
The Biden administration had already begun rolling back the policy but had not formally rescinded it. The court’s decision now mandates USCIS to resume processing applications from Iranian nationals without delay.
Immigration attorneys have urged affected individuals to reapply or follow up on pending cases. "This ruling restores fairness to a system that had been weaponised against a specific community," said one lawyer involved in the case.
Broader Implications
The decision could set a precedent for challenging similar discriminatory policies. Legal experts suggest it may influence ongoing cases involving other nationality-based immigration restrictions.
For now, the ruling brings relief to many Iranian immigrants in Oregon and beyond, reaffirming the judiciary’s role in safeguarding civil liberties.
