Only in March, over 2,000 deportation orders were issued in Virginia. This alarming number has triggered widespread concern, particularly among the Hispanic community. Cities like Richmond, Annandale, and other areas in Northern Virginia have seen heightened ICE activity and increasingly aggressive immigration enforcement operations. Adding to the concern is the expanding cooperation between local and federal authorities—alliances that often lean more toward strict enforcement than community protection.
This evolving landscape signals a shift in immigration priorities and creates greater risk for individuals without defined legal status or those in the middle of an immigration process. Rather than stoking fear, our mission is to provide clarity and solutions. In this article, we break down the recent Deportation news in Virginia, examine the state-level agreements driving this increase, identify who is most at risk, and most importantly, explain what you can do—starting today—to protect yourself and your family.
At Tingen Law, we’re committed to providing clear, practical, and up-to-date information so you can make informed decisions. We believe that knowledge is power, and no one should walk this path alone. That’s why our team of immigration attorneys in Virginia is here to advise you, defend your rights, and stand by your side every step of the way.
What Is a Deportation Order?
A deportation order, also known as a removal order, is a ruling issued by U.S. immigration authorities that requires a non-citizen to leave the country for violating immigration laws. Typically, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) determines whether an individual is authorized to remain in the U.S. This order may also bar the person from returning to the country for several years—or permanently—depending on the severity of the violation.
While DHS determines immigration status, it’s ICE—the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement agency—that is responsible for enforcing the removal once the order becomes final, whether due to the expiration of appeal options or failure to file one. When this happens, an arrest in Virginia and possible transfer to a Detention Center in Virginia can follow swiftly.
Given the current surge in deportations in Virginia, if you or a loved one are facing this situation, it’s critical not to wait. Seeking immediate legal help could be the difference between removal and a chance to remain in the country. At Tingen Law, our immigration attorneys in Virginia have more than 10 years of experience fighting for the rights of the immigrant community. From the very first consultation, we examine every possible legal option to stop deportation proceedings and build a strong, strategic defense to keep you here.
2. How Do I Know If I Have a Deportation Order?
Understanding your legal standing is essential. Here are the key ways to know if a deportation order may be active:
- Notice to Appear (NTA): Most deportation processes begin when an individual is detained by ICE or contacted by immigration authorities. The person receives an NTA, which specifies the date and time of a hearing before an immigration judge.
- Immigration Court Hearing: At this hearing, the judge reviews your case. If you do not present a compelling legal defense, or if the judge determines there is no valid reason for you to stay, a deportation order may be issued.
- Order in Absentia: If you miss your court date—which is unfortunately common when individuals don't fully understand the process or the language—the judge can issue a deportation order in your absence. This is one of the most common ways people end up with deportation orders without even realizing it.
Once a removal order is finalized, ICE may carry out enforcement actions, including raids, arrests, or home visits. Having a deportation order on your record not only increases the risk of arrest but can also negatively impact future immigration applications, your family’s legal situation, and your eligibility for benefits or protections.
3. How to Appeal a Deportation Order
Once a deportation order has been issued, you have a legal window of 30 days to file an appeal. This appeal is submitted using Form EOIR-26 and must be sent to the Board of Immigration Appeals (BIA). If the appeal is not filed within this timeframe, the order becomes final, making it significantly more difficult to reverse or halt the deportation process.
Valid reasons for appealing a deportation order include:
- Legal or procedural errors during the court hearing
- Unjustified denial of key evidence or witnesses
- Significant changes in personal circumstances
- New evidence that couldn’t be presented earlier
- Violations of due process by the court or immigration authorities
Because this process requires strong, well-founded legal arguments, having the guidance of an experienced immigration attorney is crucial. Immigration courts demand coherent, persuasive reasoning that only a skilled professional can provide. At Tingen Law, our immigration attorneys in Virginia carefully review your case and guide you through each step of the appeals process to give you the best possible chance at reversing the order and protecting your right to remain in the United States.
4. Deportation News in Virginia: What’s Happening Now?
So far this year, Virginia has become one of the states with the highest increase in deportation orders. According to a report from Axios, Virginia ranks among the top five states with the most aggressive efforts to arrest and remove undocumented immigrants.
In March alone, over 2,000 removal orders were issued in the state—well above the national average—highlighting an alarming rise in immigration enforcement activity. Of the 42,000 deportation orders issued nationwide that month, more than 300 were concentrated in the Richmond area, followed by Chesterfield and Henrico counties.
These enforcement actions don’t just target undocumented individuals—they also affect those in the process of adjusting their status or awaiting immigration court hearings. In many jurisdictions across Virginia, local officials have signed cooperation agreements with ICE, including participation in the 287(g) program, which allows local law enforcement to act as immigration agents. This has only increased the pressure and anxiety within immigrant communities.
The impact of these measures has led to widespread fear, confusion, and misinformation, especially among Hispanic communities. In several instances, ICE raids have taken place in public spaces, even near schools and community centers, raising serious concerns about due process and civil rights violations.
Given the current surge in arrests in Virginia and the increasingly aggressive enforcement tactics, having access to reliable legal support is not a luxury—it’s a necessity. At Tingen Law, our immigration attorneys in Virginia are fully prepared to assess your situation, review any pending deportation orders, and develop a solid legal strategy to defend your immigration status and protect your family’s future.
If this situation applies to you or a loved one, we strongly encourage you to schedule a consultation as soon as possible. Our team is ready to provide dedicated, fast, and compassionate support every step of the way.
5. How to Prepare if You’re an Undocumented Immigrant Living in Virginia
If you currently reside in Virginia without legal immigration status, it’s essential that you seek legal guidance as soon as possible. The advice of an experienced immigration attorney in Virginia can help you understand your options, protect your rights, and create a clear plan for your future in the U.S.
Fortunately, there are various resources and services available throughout the state for undocumented immigrants—including community health clinics, nonprofit legal aid programs, and other support services. Being informed about these opportunities will help you navigate local laws and access the assistance you need.
If this is your situation, here are the key steps we recommend:
- Consult with a trusted immigration attorney. At Tingen Law, we offer detailed legal evaluations and help you explore potential solutions like immigration waivers, Special Immigrant Juvenile Status (SIJS), and more.
- Organize your personal documents. This includes your passport, birth certificate, medical records, and any other paperwork that supports your presence in the country.
- Know your rights. Learn what to do if you're detained by ICE or other authorities. If you haven’t already, download our Immigrant Survival Guide, available on our website.
- Create an emergency plan. Know who to contact if you're detained—such as someone who can care for your children or notify your attorney. Preparation is key in case of raids or unexpected encounters.
- Avoid high-risk areas. Stay away from zones frequently patrolled by federal agents and keep up to date with local immigration developments.
At Tingen Law, we don’t just offer legal services—we also send out a free weekly newsletter with the latest deportation news in Virginia and key immigration updates. Click here to subscribe and stay informed.
6. Can a Deportation Be Stopped in Virginia?
Yes—stopping a deportation in Virginia is possible, but it requires swift action, strong legal knowledge, and a clear defense strategy. There are multiple legal mechanisms available to help halt a deportation, which can be presented to an immigration judge depending on the circumstances of your case.
Some of the most common defenses include:
- Cancellation of removal, particularly for individuals who have lived in the U.S. for at least 10 years, demonstrate good moral character, and have U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident family members who would suffer extreme hardship if they were deported.
- Motions to reopen a case, especially when new evidence has come to light or if legal errors occurred during the initial proceedings.
- Other immigration relief options, such as asylum, VAWA protections, Special Immigrant Juvenile Status (SIJS), or Temporary Protected Status (TPS), depending on your country of origin and individual history.
Regardless of the route taken, it’s critical to gather strong evidence, credible witnesses, and documentation that supports your case. However, the most important factor is having a qualified immigration attorney in Virginia who understands the system and can confidently represent you in court.
At Tingen Law, we fight for every case with the commitment and experience necessary to protect your right to remain with your family. If you’re facing deportation or fear that you may be at risk, don’t wait—contact our team today to explore your legal options.
7. What Can We Do as an Immigrant Community in Virginia?
In light of the alarming rise in deportation orders and the increasing cooperation between local authorities and ICE in Virginia—positioning the state among the most collaborative when it comes to immigration enforcement—it’s critical for the immigrant community to act with unity, awareness, and strategy.
While today’s climate may feel uncertain and overwhelming, there are specific legal paths and collective actions that can make a meaningful difference.
First, it’s essential to seek support from local and national organizations that actively advocate for immigrant rights. These groups not only offer legal aid and essential services but also work to promote more humane and just public policies.
Second, staying informed through reliable sources—and sharing only verified information—is key. Misinformation fuels panic and poor decisions. At Tingen Law, we publish a weekly newsletter with updated deportation news in Virginiaand across the country. [Click here to subscribe] if you want to stay informed and empowered.
We also encourage joining local support networks—such as churches, community groups, and immigrant advocacy coalitions—which can offer both emotional support and timely alerts in case of enforcement actions.
And above all: stay calm. Fear can paralyze you, but knowledge is power. At Tingen Law, we believe that organization is the best form of protection. With over 10 years of experience, we’re committed to equipping you with legal tools, compassionate support, and personalized strategies to defend your future and that of your family.
Conclusion
As immigration enforcement intensifies, and Virginia continues to rank among the top states for increased deportation orders, it’s clear that the landscape is shifting. These aren’t just statistics—they represent real lives at risk, dreams delayed, and families potentially torn apart, especially within the Spanish-speaking community.
Living in fear and uncertainty should not become your new normal. At Tingen Law, we’re dedicated to helping you build a safer, more stable future—backed by clear legal guidance and the support you deserve.
Now more than ever, staying informed, acting proactively, and having solid legal support isn’t a luxury—it’s an urgent necessity. You don’t have to face this journey alone. From understanding your rights to building a strong legal strategy, every step you take today can have a profound impact on your tomorrow.
Schedule your consultation today. Your peace of mind begins with an informed decision.