This Week in Immigration: January 31, 2026

U.S. Immigration News

Homan Says Federal Immigration Forces Could Scale Back in Minnesota

President Trump’s border czar Tom Homan said federal immigration operations in Minnesota could be reduced if state officials expand cooperation with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP). Homan said a drawdown would depend on broader access to state jails and continued compliance with immigration detainers, adding that he will remain in Minnesota “until the problem is gone,” as protests and political pressure continue.

U.S. Population Growth Slows Sharply as Immigration Drops

U.S. population growth slowed significantly last year, driven largely by a sharp decline in immigration, according to new estimates from the U.S. Census Bureau. The population grew by 1.8 million in the year ending last June, about half the increase seen the year before. Growth in the foreign-born population fell by more than 50%, reflecting fewer legal arrivals and increased departures. With births barely outpacing deaths, demographers warn that continued declines could weigh on the labor force and broader economy.

Trump Immigration Approval Hits New Low, Poll Shows

Public approval of Trump’s immigration policy has fallen to a record low since his return to office, according to a new Reuters/Ipsos poll. Just 39% of Americans approve of Trump’s handling of immigration, while 53% disapprove. A majority of respondents said the administration’s enforcement push has gone too far amid growing backlash over aggressive tactics by ICE and recent deadly encounters involving U.S. citizens.

‍ICE Role at Italy Winter Olympics Draws Criticism

U.S. officials confirmed that agents from ICE will support American security operations during the Winter Olympics in Italy, drawing criticism from some Italian leaders. Italian authorities said that all Olympic security will be led and controlled by Italy, with U.S. agencies operating from a consulate-based coordination center in Milan.

Global

Spain to Legalize 500,000 Undocumented Migrants Under New Residency Plan

Spain announced a plan to grant legal status and work permits to up to 500,000 undocumented migrants, describing the move as a way to offer a “dignified” life and reduce labor exploitation. Migrants who arrived before December 31, 2025, and can prove five months of residence and a clean criminal record will be eligible. Applications will open in April 2026. Analysts estimate Spain has more than 800,000 undocumented residents, most from Latin America.

Netherlands Limits RNI Registration Locations for Non-EU Nationals

The Dutch government has confirmed that starting January 2026, non-EU, non-EEA, and non-Swiss nationals will be able to register in the Non-Residents Records Database (RNI) only in Breda or Venlo, down from 19 municipalities. EU, EEA, and Swiss citizens will retain access to all RNI desks. The update, issued by Rijksdienst voor Identiteitsgegevens, is part of a broader effort to centralize identity services. While some applicants may need to travel farther to obtain a BSN, experts say the practical impact is likely to be limited.

U.K. Tightens Entry Rules for Dual Citizens

Starting 25 February 2026, the United Kingdom will require dual citizens to enter the country using a U.K. passport, an Irish passport, or a foreign passport with a Certificate of Entitlement confirming the right of abode. Under updated guidance from the UK Home Office, dual nationals will no longer be allowed to travel on a third-country passport alone and cannot apply for an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA). Travelers affected are advised to secure the correct documents well in advance to avoid delays or denial of boarding.

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