Government Seeks Deportation of Iowa Couple Suing Over Delayed Naturalization

After waiting nearly 11 years for naturalization, the Khai family sued USCIS and DOJ for delays. The government started deportation proceedings amid their lawsuit, signaling increased enforcement during Trump’s 2025 term. This case highlights harsh immigration backlogs and the risks immigrants face when challenging processing delays.

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Key takeaways

The Khai family has waited nearly 11 years for naturalization, far exceeding the 9.2-month national average.
They sued USCIS and DOJ in 2025 for delays; government began deportation proceedings amid the lawsuit.
Trump’s 2025 policies increased enforcement, restricting birthright citizenship and expanding deportations and detentions.

A central Iowa couple faces deportation after suing the federal government over an 11-year delay in their naturalization process, raising fears of retaliation and drawing national attention to the human cost of immigration backlogs. The Khai family’s legal fight and the government’s recent move to deport them highlight growing tensions between immigrants seeking lawful status and aggressive enforcement policies under President Trump’s second term.

A Family’s Long Wait for Naturalization

Government Seeks Deportation of Iowa Couple Suing Over Delayed Naturalization
Government Seeks Deportation of Iowa Couple Suing Over Delayed Naturalization

The Khai family, who have lived in central Iowa for over a decade, first applied for permanent residency in June 2014. After years without a decision, they filed a second application in May 2017. Despite some progress, they still have not received their Lawful Permanent Resident (LPR) cards. Without these cards, they cannot move forward with naturalization—the process that allows immigrants to become U.S. 🇺🇸 citizens.

Their frustration grew as they watched others complete the process in a fraction of the time. Nationally, the average wait for naturalization is about 9.2 months. In Des Moines, it’s around 16 months. The Khai family has waited nearly 11 years—10 times longer than most applicants. This delay has left them in limbo, unable to fully participate in their community or plan for the future.

Timeline
Track your progress

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June 2014
Khai family first applied for permanent residency
The Khai family begins their journey towards obtaining permanent residency.

May 2017
Khai family filed a second application
After years without a decision, the Khai family submits a second application for permanent residency.

February 2025
Khai family filed a lawsuit against USCIS and DOJ
The Khai family takes legal action against the agencies for failing to process their immigration case in a timely manner.

May 2025
Lawsuit amended
The Khai family’s lawsuit is amended to include additional requests for the court.

Early July 2025
Government started deportation proceedings against the Khai family
The Khai family learns that deportation proceedings have been initiated against them.

Legal Action and Allegations of Retaliation

In February 2025, the Khai family filed a lawsuit against U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) and the Department of Justice. They argued that the agencies failed to meet their legal duty to process immigration cases within a reasonable time. The lawsuit, amended in May 2025, asks the court to set a deadline for USCIS to act, cover attorneys’ fees, and protect the family from any retaliation.

As of early July 2025, the government had not responded to the lawsuit in court. But soon after, the Khai family learned that the government had started deportation proceedings against them. This move shocked the family and their supporters, who saw it as a possible act of retaliation for their legal challenge.

Immigration advocates and some members of the public have voiced concern. Many worry that the government’s action sends a message: if immigrants challenge delays or unfair treatment, they risk being targeted for deportation. As one local advocate put it, “This feels like punishment for standing up for their rights.”

Broader Policy Context: Trump’s Second Term

The Khai family’s struggle comes amid sweeping changes to immigration policy under President Trump’s second term, which began in January 2025. The administration has made immigration enforcement a top priority, rolling out new executive orders and expanding programs aimed at reducing both legal and illegal immigration.

Key policy changes include:

  • Restricting birthright citizenship for children born to certain noncitizen parents, effective February 19, 2025.
  • Tougher screening for visa applicants and foreign nationals.
  • Suspending and changing refugee admissions programs.
  • Expanding resources for enforcement, including more detention beds and stricter rules for bond hearings.

These policies have led to more deportations and longer detention times for many immigrants. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) now has the capacity to detain up to 100,000 people at a time. Many detainees are not allowed bond hearings, which means they can be held for months or even years while their cases move through the courts.

The administration’s “Project 2025” plan also proposes ending the Diversity Visa Lottery and sharply reducing family-based immigration. Instead, the focus would shift to a merit-based system, making it harder for many families to reunite in the United States 🇺🇸.

Impact on the Central Iowa Couple and Their Community

For the Khai family, these policy changes have made an already difficult situation even harder. Their case shows how long delays and tough enforcement can disrupt lives and tear families apart. If deported, the couple could be separated from their children and forced to leave the community they have called home for years.

⚠️ Important
Be cautious when challenging delays in your immigration case, as doing so may lead to retaliation from the government, including potential deportation. Always seek legal advice before taking action.

Their lawsuit points to a lack of communication and transparency from USCIS. Despite repeated attempts to get answers, the family says they received little information about why their case was delayed or when it might be resolved. This uncertainty has made it impossible for them to plan for the future or feel secure in their daily lives.

The Khai family’s experience is not unique. Many immigrants across the country face similar delays and uncertainty. According to analysis by VisaVerge.com, long backlogs and slow processing times have become common, especially in areas like Des Moines where local offices are understaffed and overwhelmed.

Legal and Community Responses

The Khai family’s legal team is fighting to stop the deportation and force USCIS to make a decision on their case. They argue that the government’s move to deport the couple while their lawsuit is pending is unfair and may violate their rights. Legal experts warn that if the government can deport people who sue over delays, it could discourage others from speaking out or seeking help.

Immigration advocacy groups have rallied around the family, calling for more oversight and accountability in the immigration system. They argue that everyone deserves a fair and timely decision on their case, regardless of their background or legal status.

Local officials in Iowa have offered mixed responses. Some support tougher enforcement, while others worry about the impact on families and communities. Recent disputes between Iowa sheriffs and the state attorney general over cooperation with federal immigration authorities show that the issue remains deeply divisive.

Background: Why Are Cases Delayed?

The backlog in immigration cases is not new. In 2003, Congress set a deadline for USCIS and the Department of Justice to process cases in a timely manner. But over the years, growing numbers of applications, staff shortages, and shifting policies have led to long delays.

The Khai family’s case highlights these systemic problems. Despite filing all the required paperwork and following the rules, they have waited years for a decision. Their experience shows how delays can have real consequences, from missed job opportunities to family separation.

What Happens Next?

The Khai family’s lawsuit is still moving through the courts. The government has not yet filed a formal response, and it is unclear how the judge will rule. In the meantime, the family faces the threat of deportation, even though their case is not yet resolved.

Legal experts say the family could ask the court for an emergency order to stop the deportation while the lawsuit is pending. If the court finds that the government’s actions were retaliatory, it could order USCIS to process the case and protect the family from removal.

The outcome of this case could have far-reaching effects. If the court sides with the Khai family, it could set a precedent for other immigrants facing long delays. On the other hand, if the government is allowed to deport people who sue over backlogs, it could discourage others from challenging unfair treatment.

Wider Implications for Immigrants and Policy

The Khai family’s story is a window into the broader challenges facing immigrants in the United States 🇺🇸 today. Long delays, tough enforcement, and shifting policies have created a climate of fear and uncertainty for many families.

Key implications include:

  • Chilling effect on legal challenges: If immigrants fear retaliation for suing over delays, fewer may come forward to challenge unfair practices.
  • Family separation: Deportation can split families, especially when some members are U.S. 🇺🇸 citizens or have pending legal claims.
  • Community impact: When long-term residents are removed, local communities lose valued members, workers, and neighbors.
  • Pressure on the courts: As more people turn to the courts for help, judges face growing caseloads and complex legal questions.

Public opinion on immigration remains divided. Some Americans support tougher enforcement, while others favor pathways to citizenship and more humane policies. Recent polls show growing support for immigration reform and a desire to fix the system’s problems.

Practical Guidance for Immigrants Facing Delays

For immigrants experiencing long waits for naturalization or other benefits, there are steps that can help:

VisaVerge.com

Eligibility Requirements
Requirements you must meet

1
Must have filed all required paperwork for permanent residency
Required to initiate the naturalization process.

2
Must have lived in the U.S. for a significant period
In this case, the Khai family has lived in the U.S. for over a decade.

3
Must be subject to the legal processing timelines set by USCIS
Applicants must adhere to the timelines established for processing immigration cases.

4
Must be able to demonstrate a legal challenge to delays in processing
Legal action may be necessary if there are significant delays in the naturalization process.

5
Must have a legal basis for seeking naturalization
This includes having a pending application for Lawful Permanent Resident (LPR) status.

  • Keep detailed records: Save copies of all applications, receipts, and correspondence with USCIS.
  • Follow up regularly: Check your case status online and contact USCIS for updates.
  • Seek legal help: An experienced immigration attorney can advise on your options and help file lawsuits if needed.
  • Know your rights: Immigrants have the right to challenge delays and unfair treatment in court.
  • Stay informed: Monitor official sources like the USCIS website for updates on policies and processing times.

If you are facing deportation while your case is pending, you may be able to ask a court for protection or an emergency order. Legal aid organizations and advocacy groups can provide support and connect you with resources.

Official Resources and Where to Get Help

  • USCIS: The main government agency for immigration benefits. Check case status, find forms, and get updates at uscis.gov.
  • Department of Justice Immigration Division: Handles immigration courts and enforcement. Visit justice.gov/crt/immigration for more information.
  • Legal Aid and Advocacy Groups: Organizations like the American Immigration Council and National Immigration Law Center offer help and information for immigrants.

When applying for naturalization, use the official Form N-400, Application for Naturalization, and always check the USCIS website for the latest version and instructions.

Looking Ahead: The Future of Immigration Policy

The Khai family’s case is still unfolding, but it has already sparked debate about fairness, due process, and the role of the courts in immigration. As the Trump administration continues to push for stricter enforcement, more families may find themselves caught between long delays and the threat of deportation.

Lawmakers and advocates are calling for reforms to speed up processing times, improve transparency, and protect the rights of immigrants. Whether these changes will happen remains to be seen, but the outcome of cases like the Khai family’s will shape the future for thousands of others waiting for a chance to become U.S. 🇺🇸 citizens.

For now, the central Iowa couple’s fight continues—a reminder of the real people behind the headlines and the urgent need for a fair and efficient immigration system.

Learn Today

Naturalization → The legal process by which an immigrant becomes a U.S. citizen after meeting requirements.
Lawful Permanent Resident (LPR) → An immigrant legally authorized to live and work permanently in the U.S., often called a green card holder.
USCIS → U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, the federal agency that processes immigration and naturalization applications.
Deportation → The legal removal of a noncitizen from the United States for violating immigration laws or other reasons.
Executive Order → A directive issued by the President that manages operations of the federal government, including immigration policies.

This Article in a Nutshell

The Khai family’s 11-year naturalization delay highlights harsh immigration backlogs and aggressive deportation under Trump’s 2025 policies, threatening families challenging unfair treatment.
— By VisaVerge.com

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Shashank Singh
Breaking News Reporter
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As a Breaking News Reporter at VisaVerge.com, Shashank Singh is dedicated to delivering timely and accurate news on the latest developments in immigration and travel. His quick response to emerging stories and ability to present complex information in an understandable format makes him a valuable asset. Shashank's reporting keeps VisaVerge's readers at the forefront of the most current and impactful news in the field.
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