Los Angeles, California — Many in the Filipino American community are facing new uncertainty as federal actions unfold that directly impact long-standing ties to the Philippines and employment pathways in the United States. A proposal to end dual citizenship for U.S. nationals and heightened scrutiny of H-1B visa applicants are raising concerns for families, professionals, and community members who rely on these immigration systems.
Congressional Measures Stir Concern in the Filipino American Community
A congressional bill seeking to abolish dual citizenship, along with new federal directives tightening H-1B visa vetting, has garnered widespread attention. The Exclusive Citizenship Act of 2025 would prohibit Americans from holding another nationality and require dual nationals to renounce their foreign citizenship.
For many Filipino Americans, this change could alter access to property ownership, residency privileges, and civic participation in the Philippines. At the same time, stricter screening measures for H-1B visas — commonly used by Filipino engineers, healthcare workers, and tech professionals — add more uncertainty for applicants and their families.
Impact on Rights, Mobility, and Daily Life
These developments affect Filipino American life, impacting personal ties to the Philippines and work opportunities in the U.S. The dual citizenship plan may restrict property, voting, and residency rights in the Philippines, while the new H-1B review adds documentation and background checks for applicants.
Key areas of impact include:
- Restrictions on property ownership, residency, and voting for dual citizens
- Stricter screening for H-1B applicants and their dependent family members
- Longer processing times for green cards and visas due to resource constraints
- Increased uncertainty for community members planning their futures in both countries
Get the Legal Support Your Family Needs
For many Filipino Americans, these developments create added stress as families adjust to policies that may affect their stability.
While Kapwa Justice does not handle immigration matters, our team provides dependable support in areas that have a significant impact on the community. We help individuals and families with trafficking cases, employment issues, and personal injury claims, ensuring they understand their rights and have access to the necessary resources.
If you have legal challenges in these areas, reach out to us for a free consultation.
