Immigrant Witness and Victim Protection Act of 2025

This bill focuses on protecting immigrant victims and witnesses. It aims to remove barriers so survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, trafficking, and other crimes can seek help without fear. It ends the annual caps on U visas for crime victims and on Special Immigrant Juvenile (SIJ) visas, and shields SIJ cases from per-country limits, so eligible people aren’t blocked by strict number quotas . It also explains that threats of deportation are commonly used by abusers and that survivors need timely work permits to be safe and independent.

The bill requires work permits for people who apply for U or T status, VAWA self-petitioners, SIJ applicants, and certain applicants for cancellation of removal—no later than 180 days after filing or upon approval, whichever comes first . It pauses deportation for these applicants until a final denial and creates a presumption they should be released from detention; a pending criminal charge alone can’t be the sole reason to keep them detained . It also strengthens privacy rules and penalties to prevent agencies from misusing or revealing their information, with annual reporting on training and violations.

• Who is affected: Immigrant crime victims (U), trafficking survivors (T), VAWA self-petitioners, abused/neglected youth (SIJ), and certain applicants for cancellation of removal .
• What changes: No annual visa caps for U and SIJ; faster work permits (within 180 days); protection from deportation while cases are pending; presumption of release from detention; stronger privacy protections .
• Timing details: Work permits must be granted by 180 days after filing if the case isn’t decided sooner .