Signed by President Donald Trump on January 20, 2025, Executive Order 14163 suspends the U.S. Refugee Admissions Program (USRAP) effective January 27, 2025. Citing record levels of migration and strain on local resources, the order declares that refugee admissions are detrimental to U.S. interests until further review. It emphasizes national security, public safety, and the need for refugees to fully assimilate. The order also calls for greater involvement of state and local governments in deciding where refugees may be resettled, and revokes previous policies aimed at expanding refugee admissions.

Signed by President Donald Trump on January 20, 2025, Executive Order 14165 declares unlawful mass migration a national crisis and outlines aggressive measures to secure the U.S. border. The order calls for constructing physical barriers, detaining unauthorized immigrants to the fullest extent of the law, and removing those who violate immigration laws. It also directs federal agencies to pursue criminal charges against undocumented individuals and those who assist them, and to fully cooperate with state and local law enforcement. The goal, according to the order, is to achieve complete operational control of the U.S. border and end what it describes as an “unprecedented flood” of illegal immigration.

Signed by President Donald Trump on February 7, 2025, Executive Order 14204 halts U.S. aid to South Africa and prioritizes the resettlement of Afrikaner refugees in response to South Africa’s Expropriation Act 13 of 2024, which permits land seizures from white minority farmers without compensation. The order cites human rights concerns and South Africa’s diplomatic ties with U.S. adversaries as justification. However, it has sparked controversy for appearing to single out the plight of one group while ignoring broader historical injustices, raising accusations of racial bias and politically motivated refugee policy.

Signed by President Donald Trump on February 19, 2025, Executive Order 14218 directs federal agencies to prevent undocumented immigrants from accessing taxpayer-funded benefits. Citing the 1996 welfare reform law, the order claims that past administrations undermined legal limits on public benefits for noncitizens. It instructs agencies to identify and restrict any programs that provide cash or non-cash aid to undocumented individuals, enhance eligibility verification systems, and ensure that federal funds do not support sanctuary policies. The order has drawn criticism for potentially restricting aid to vulnerable populations and for framing immigration enforcement in highly politicized terms.

Signed by President Donald Trump on March 1, 2025, Executive Order 14224 designates English as the official language of the United States. The order revokes Executive Order 13166, which had required federal agencies to ensure access to services for individuals with limited English proficiency. While EO 14224 does not mandate immediate changes to existing services, it encourages agencies to prioritize English in government operations to promote national unity and efficiency