What does the abbreviation EO refer to?

The abbreviation EO most commonly refers to "Executive Order." In the context of U.S. immigration law and policy, an Executive Order is a directive issued by the President of the United States to manage the operations of the federal government. These orders can have significant impacts on immigration policy, including asylum procedures, as they often set forth important guidelines and legal frameworks that must be followed by agencies such as the USCIS.

Understanding the role of Executive Orders is crucial for those in the field of immigration, as they can introduce or modify important policies that affect asylum procedures, eligibility criteria, and overall policy direction. Executive Orders are binding and carry the weight of law until they are repealed or modified, making them a key component of the executive branch's authority to influence immigration matters.