Trump Green Card Policy 2026: Judge Bars Immigration Arrests at US Courthouses

A federal judge has issued a ruling barring immigration authorities from making arrests at US courthouses, marking a significant legal setback for the Trump administration's aggressive immigration enforcement campaign. The order prevents ICE agents from detaining individuals on courthouse grounds, a practice that had drawn sharp criticism from legal advocates and court officials alike. The ruling has immediate implications for immigrants who may have been avoiding court appearances out of fear of detention. Legal experts note that courthouse arrests had created a chilling effect on access to justice, with many individuals — including crime victims and witnesses — refusing to engage with the legal system due to immigration enforcement concerns. For EB-3 applicants and green card holders navigating the immigration system in 2026, this ruling provides some reassurance that legal proceedings may proceed without the added risk of courthouse arrests. However, immigration enforcement outside of courthouse premises remains active under current Trump administration policy. The decision is expected to face appeal by the Department of Justice, meaning the situation remains fluid. Immigration attorneys are advising clients to stay informed about the status of this ruling and to consult legal counsel before making decisions based on this temporary protection. This court action is part of a broader wave of legal challenges to the Trump administration's 2026 immigration enforcement priorities, which have included expanded deportation efforts and policy changes affecting green card holders and visa applicants across all employment-based categories.