A US federal judge has struck down a series of restrictions imposed by the Trump administration on legal immigration following a 2025 shooting incident in Washington.
The restrictions, which targeted nationals of 39 countries, were deemed unlawful by District Judge John McConnell.
The judge ruled that the policies, which affected asylum, work permit, green card, and citizen applications, were 'arbitrary and capricious' and contravened the law.
The restrictions were introduced after an Afghan immigrant, who had entered the US as part of a resettlement program, shot and killed two National Guard soldiers in November 2025.
The judge's ruling has been welcomed by advocacy groups, who argue that it reaffirms the principle that the federal government cannot shut down lawful immigration pathways or discriminate against people based on their country of origin.
The Trump administration is expected to appeal the ruling.
