Key Takeaways
• Virginia’s Executive Order 47 signed February 27, 2025, directs state police to support federal immigration enforcement.
• Over 2,500 arrests reported by VHSTF and ICE in Virginia during early 2025, mainly in Fairfax County.
• Virginia has 21 Section 287(g) agreements, allowing local police to assist ICE in immigration enforcement.
Virginia has recently seen major changes in how immigration enforcement is carried out, especially since the start of 2025. these changes involve new policies, more arrests, and closer cooperation between state and federal agencies. The main groups involved are Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and the Virginia Homeland Security Task Force (VHSTF). Governor Glenn Youngkin’s Executive Order 47 has played a big role in shaping these developments. Here’s a detailed update on what has changed, who is affected, what actions are required, and what these changes mean for people living in Virginia—especially immigrants and their families.
Summary of Recent Changes
Since February 2025, Virginia has taken a much tougher approach to immigration enforcement. The most important changes include:
- A sharp rise in arrests by both ICE and the VHSTF, especially in places like Fairfax County.
- The creation of the Virginia Homeland Security Task Force (VHSTF), which works closely with federal agencies to fight organized crime and gang activity.
- Governor Youngkin’s Executive Order 47, which tells state law enforcement to help federal agencies like ICE. This includes letting state police work directly with ICE through special agreements called Section 287(g) agreements.
- A record number of Section 287(g) agreements in Virginia, allowing local police to help enforce federal immigration laws.
These changes have led to more people being arrested and placed in deportation proceedings. They have also caused concern and fear in many immigrant communities.
Who Is Affected by These Changes
The new enforcement efforts affect several groups:
- Immigrants living in Virginia, especially those without legal status or with pending immigration cases.
- Families of immigrants, who may worry about loved ones being arrested or deported.
- Employers and community organizations that work with immigrants.
- Local law enforcement agencies, which now have more responsibility to help with federal immigration enforcement.
Key Dates and Events
- February 2025: The Virginia Homeland Security Task Force is established.
- February 27, 2025: Governor Youngkin issues Executive Order 47, directing state police to support ICE.
- July 1, 2025: VHSTF reports over 2,500 arrests since its creation.
- First five months of 2025: ICE arrests over 2,500 people in Virginia, with many arrests in Fairfax County.
Key Events in Virginia Immigration Enforcement (2025)
VisaVerge.com
Virginia Homeland Security Task Force (VHSTF) established
Executive Order 47 issued
Over 2,500 ICE arrests in Virginia
VHSTF reports over 2,500 arrests
Required Actions for Affected Individuals
If you or someone you know could be affected by these changes, here are some important steps to take:
- Know your rights: Everyone in the United States 🇺🇸, regardless of immigration status, has certain rights. You have the right to remain silent and to ask for a lawyer if you are detained.
- Stay informed: Keep up to date with local news and official announcements about immigration enforcement in your area.
- Seek legal advice: If you are worried about your status or have been contacted by law enforcement, talk to a qualified immigration lawyer. The American Immigration Lawyers Association (AILA) is a good place to find help.
- Prepare important documents: Keep copies of your identification, immigration papers, and contact information for family and legal help in a safe place.
- If you have a pending application: Stay in close contact with your lawyer or legal representative. Make sure all your paperwork is up to date and respond quickly to any requests from immigration authorities.
Details of the Policy Changes
Executive Order 47
Governor Glenn Youngkin’s Executive Order 47, signed on February 27, 2025, is a key part of Virginia’s new approach. This order tells state law enforcement officers to work closely with federal agencies like ICE. It also allows state police to be “deputized,” which means they can act with the same authority as federal immigration officers under Section 287(g) agreements.
Section 287(g) Agreements
Section 287(g) is a part of federal law that lets local or state police help enforce immigration laws. Under these agreements, local officers get special training from ICE and can help identify, arrest, and start deportation proceedings against people who may be in the country without legal status.
As of July 2025, Virginia has 21 signed or pending Section 287(g) agreements—one of the highest numbers in the country. This means more local police departments are working directly with ICE, leading to more arrests and detentions.
Virginia Homeland Security Task Force (VHSTF)
The VHSTF was created in February 2025 to fight organized crime and gang activity, especially crimes that cross state or national borders. The task force works with ICE and other federal agencies to find and arrest people suspected of being involved in these crimes. By July 1, 2025, the VHSTF had already reported over 2,500 arrests.
Recent Arrests and Enforcement Actions
- ICE Arrests: In the first five months of 2025, ICE arrested more than 2,500 people in Virginia. Many of these arrests happened in Fairfax County, a region with a large immigrant population.
- VHSTF Arrests: The VHSTF has also made over 2,500 arrests since its creation. These arrests are often linked to efforts to fight organized crime, but critics say not all those arrested are involved in serious crimes.
Who Is Being Arrested?
Governor Youngkin and supporters of the new policies say the goal is to remove “dangerous criminal illegal immigrants” from Virginia. However, critics point out that there is not always clear information about who is being arrested or why. Some worry that people with no criminal record, or those with only minor offenses, are also being caught up in these sweeps.
Courthouse Arrests
One area of concern is the use of courthouse arrests. This is when ICE or local police arrest people at courthouses, often when they are there for unrelated legal matters. Supporters say this is a way to catch people who might otherwise avoid law enforcement. Critics argue that it discourages immigrants from going to court, even as victims or witnesses, because they fear being arrested.
Implications for Pending Applications
If you have a pending immigration application—such as for asylum, a green card, or another status—these changes could affect your case in several ways:
- Increased risk of detention: With more cooperation between local police and ICE, there is a higher chance of being detained, even if you have a pending application.
- Possible delays: If you are detained, it may be harder to attend interviews or provide documents needed for your application.
- Legal representation: It is more important than ever to have a lawyer who can help protect your rights and guide you through the process.
Legal and Social Implications
The new enforcement policies have sparked debate across Virginia:
- Supporters’ View: Governor Youngkin and others say these actions make communities safer by removing people involved in crime.
- Critics’ View: Many immigration advocates, lawyers, and community leaders say the policies are too harsh. They worry about due process (the right to fair treatment under the law) and the impact on families and community trust.
Due Process Concerns
Critics argue that the lack of clear information about who is being arrested and why makes it hard to know if people’s rights are being respected. There are also concerns that people may not have enough time or resources to get legal help before being deported.
Community Trust
When local police work closely with ICE, some community members may become afraid to report crimes or cooperate with law enforcement. This can make it harder for police to solve crimes and keep everyone safe.
What Should Immigrants and Their Families Do Now?
Given the current situation, here are some practical steps for immigrants and their families in Virginia:
- Stay calm but alert: Don’t panic, but be aware of your surroundings and any changes in local enforcement.
- Know your rights: You have the right to remain silent and to ask for a lawyer. You do not have to open your door to ICE unless they have a warrant signed by a judge.
- Have a safety plan: Make sure your family knows what to do if someone is detained. Keep important phone numbers and documents in a safe place.
- Avoid risky situations: If possible, avoid places where you might be at higher risk of arrest, such as courthouses or areas with heavy police presence.
- Stay connected: Join local community groups or organizations that support immigrants. They can provide updates, resources, and support.
Step-by-Step Procedures for Dealing with Enforcement Actions
- If approached by law enforcement: Stay calm. Ask if you are free to leave. If not, you have the right to remain silent and to speak to a lawyer.
- If detained: Ask to contact your lawyer or a trusted family member. Do not sign any documents you do not understand.
- If you have a pending application: Tell your lawyer right away if you are detained. They can help make sure your case continues and that your rights are protected.
- If you witness an arrest: Write down as much information as possible, including names, badge numbers, and what happened. This can help if there are questions about due process or legal rights.
Official Resources and Where to Get Help
- ICE Official Website: For information on enforcement actions, detention centers, and legal rights, visit the ICE official website.
- Governor of Virginia’s Office: For updates on state policies and executive orders, visit the Governor of Virginia’s official website.
- American Immigration Lawyers Association (AILA): Find a qualified immigration lawyer and get updates on changes in the law.
- VisaVerge.com: Analysis from VisaVerge.com suggests that staying informed and seeking legal help are the best ways to protect yourself during times of increased enforcement.
Looking Ahead: What Might Change Next?
Virginia’s current approach to immigration enforcement is likely to continue for the near future. However, there may be changes in the coming months or years:
- Possible new laws: The Virginia legislature may consider new laws to address concerns about due process, community trust, or the balance between public safety and immigrant rights.
- Court challenges: Some groups may challenge the new policies in court, especially if there are concerns about rights violations.
- Changes in federal policy: If there are changes at the federal level, such as new guidance from the Department of Homeland Security, this could affect how Virginia carries out enforcement.
What This Means for Immigrants, Employers, and Communities
- For immigrants: The risk of arrest and deportation is higher, especially for those without legal status or with pending cases. It is important to be prepared and to know your rights.
- For employers: There may be more scrutiny of hiring practices and paperwork. Make sure all employee records are in order and follow all laws.
- For communities: Trust between police and immigrant communities may be tested. Community organizations can play a key role in providing support and information.
Conclusion and Next Steps
Virginia’s new immigration enforcement policies, driven by Executive Order 47 and the work of Immigration and Customs Enforcement and the Virginia Homeland Security Task Force, have changed the landscape for immigrants and their families. The use of Section 287(g) agreements means local police are more involved in federal immigration enforcement than ever before.
If you are affected by these changes, take steps now to protect yourself and your family:
- Know your rights and stay informed
- Seek legal advice if you have questions or concerns
- Prepare important documents and have a safety plan
- Stay connected with community organizations and support networks
For official information on immigration enforcement and your rights, visit the ICE official website. Staying informed and prepared is the best way to face these changes with confidence.
Learn Today
Executive Order 47 → A 2025 Virginia order directing state police to assist federal immigration enforcement agencies like ICE.
Section 287(g) Agreements → Federal agreements allowing local law enforcement to perform immigration enforcement duties after special ICE training.
Virginia Homeland Security Task Force (VHSTF) → A state task force created in 2025 to combat organized crime and support immigration enforcement.
Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) → A federal agency responsible for enforcing immigration laws and detaining unauthorized individuals.
Deportation Proceedings → Legal processes to remove individuals from the U.S. who do not have lawful immigration status.
This Article in a Nutshell
Virginia’s 2025 immigration enforcement sharply increased with Executive Order 47, VHSTF’s creation, and numerous Section 287(g) agreements, leading to record arrests. Immigrants and families face higher risks, underscoring the importance of knowing rights, seeking legal counsel, and staying informed to navigate this evolving enforcement landscape safely and confidently.
— By VisaVerge.com
