Here are some recent U.S. immigration news, an essential source to keep you up to date with changes and opportunities that may affect your life.
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IMMIGRATION NEWS IN THE UNITED STATES
Visa Bulletin September 2024
Immigration Today - August 8, 2024
The September 2024 Visa Bulletin is now available, featuring new dates for consular filing and final visa issuance at U.S. embassies or consulates. The bulletin includes crucial information for those seeking to adjust status within the United States or through the visa lottery. Employment-based preference categories, especially EB-3 and EW, have experienced setbacks due to high demand, and filing dates may move forward in October 2024. In addition, the results of the 2025 visa lottery are highlighted, with a total of 55,000 visas available and 131,080 applicants selected.
California Service Center Moves to New Address on August 12th
USCIS - August 12, 2024
The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) California Service Center will move to a new location on August 12, 2024. The new facility in Tustin, CA, seeks to improve efficiency by consolidating operations. While not serving the public in person, the center will continue to process applications for immigration benefits quickly and effectively. It is important that applicants check the specific address on the USCIS website before submitting forms.
U.S. Department of Labor celebrates 24th anniversary of Executive Order 13166 and continues to implement updated Language Access Plan
U.S. Department of Labor - August 12, 2024
The U.S. Department of Labor is celebrating the 24th anniversary of Executive Order 13166, reaffirming its commitment to the accessibility of services for people with limited English proficiency. Since updating its Language Access Plan in 2023, the department has implemented significant improvements, such as translating key websites into multiple languages and providing interpretation services in more than 170 languages. In addition, the Centralized Office of Language Assistance was created to facilitate these efforts. Collaboration with more than 40 federal agencies ensures the elimination of language barriers and the promotion of equity in government-funded programs.
Justice Department dismantles North Korean computer telecommuter fraud schemes through indictments and seizures
U.S. Department of Justice - August 10, 2024
The U.S. Department of Justice has dismantled fraudulent schemes by North Korean remote IT workers, bringing charges against several individuals and seizing related assets. These workers, operating out of North Korea, used false identities to access U.S. freelance platforms and generate revenue that was then funneled to the North Korean government in violation of international sanctions. The operation is part of a broader effort to stop illicit financing that supports North Korea's banned activities.
Former Syrian prison official charged with immigration fraud
U.S. Department of Justice - August 11, 2024
A former Syrian prison official has been charged with immigration fraud in the U.S. for concealing his history of human rights violations. The individual, who had entered the country as a refugee, is suspected of torturing prisoners in Syria before emigrating. U.S. authorities have initiated a process to revoke his immigration status and potentially deport him, underscoring their commitment to the integrity of the immigration system and the protection of human rights.
Extradition of three more Dominican nationals accused of defrauding grandparents
U.S. Department of Justice - August 12, 2024
Three Dominican nationals were extradited to the U.S. to face charges related to a scheme to defraud grandparents. These individuals were part of a criminal network that extorted money from elderly people, making them believe that their grandchildren were in urgent legal trouble. The victims were tricked into sending money quickly, believing they were helping their relatives. The extraditions reflect international collaboration in the fight against this type of fraud and a commitment to protect the elderly from financial scams.
U.S. Border Patrol Reminds Criminals of Consequences of Assaulting Federal Agents
U.S. Customs and Border Protection - August 9, 2024
The El Paso Sector Border Patrol has reported an increase in attacks against its agents, reminding criminals that assaulting a federal officer carries serious legal consequences. Since the start of fiscal year 2024, 66 agents have been assaulted, an increase from the previous year. Assaults range from rock throwing to attempted murder, such as one incident where an agent was shot twice in the torso, saving his life thanks to his bulletproof vest. Authorities are working closely with the FBI and the U.S. Attorney's Office to ensure that those responsible face the full force of the law.
Air and Marine Operations and Border Patrol Agents Work Together
U.S. Customs and Border Protection - August 11, 2024
Border Patrol agents from the El Paso sector collaborate with Air and Marine Operations (AMO) in a joint operation that resulted in the interception of a group of undocumented migrants. The cooperation between the two units allowed for effective tracking from the air to apprehension on the ground, highlighting the importance of interagency collaboration for border security. The coordinated work between air and ground forces strengthens the capabilities for rapid and effective response to illegal crossing attempts.
Migrant tracing program key to locating missing mother and child
U.S. Customs and Border Protection - August 10, 2024
The El Paso Sector's Migrant Management Program (MMP) was instrumental in locating a mother and child who were lost in a desert area while attempting to cross the border. After receiving an emergency call, agents activated the MMP, utilizing advanced location technologies and coordinating efforts with other agencies. This program has proven to be a crucial tool in protecting human lives in remote and dangerous border areas, enabling quick and accurate responses in crisis situations.
Newborn baby dies in Arizona hospital after mother was transported for medical care
U.S. Customs and Border Protection - August 6, 2024
A newborn baby died in an Arizona hospital after his mother, an eight-month pregnant Angolan migrant, was detained and rushed by Border Patrol. The woman, who presented with abdominal and back pain, was taken to a hospital where she underwent an emergency cesarean section due to irregularities in the fetal heartbeat. Despite medical efforts, the baby could not be resuscitated and was pronounced dead. The incident is being reviewed by authorities, including the DHS Office of Inspector General.
Man dies after exiting moving vehicle in apparent human smuggling case
U.S. Customs and Border Protection - August 8, 2024
A man was killed when he jumped from a moving vehicle during an apparent case of human smuggling near the Arizona-Mexico border. The incident occurred when Border Patrol agents attempted to stop the suspect vehicle, resulting in the death of the individual who attempted to escape. This event underscores the extreme dangers associated with human smuggling rings, which often put migrants' lives at risk to evade the law. Authorities are investigating the case to identify those responsible and prevent future incidents.
Woman dies after single-vehicle rollover accident
U.S. Customs and Border Protection - August 7, 2024
A woman was pronounced dead after the vehicle in which she was traveling overturned in an accident near the border in Arizona. The incident occurred in the context of an attempted illegal border crossing, when the driver lost control of the vehicle. Border Patrol agents, along with emergency services, responded to the scene, but the woman did not survive the accident. The circumstances of the accident are under investigation, while authorities reiterate the dangers of attempting to cross the border in an unsafe manner and the risk to those who engage in such activities.
ERO New York arrests Jamaican national serving 28 years for homicide
ICE - August 12, 2024
Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO) in New York arrested a Jamaican national on August 6, 2024, who had served 28 years in prison for murder. The individual entered the U.S. legally in 1987, but violated the terms of his admission. He was convicted in Ohio in 1995 and sentenced to life plus three years. Released on parole in 2023, he was rearrested by ERO for immigration violations and remains in custody while facing deportation proceedings.
ERO Boston removes fugitive wanted by Brazilian authorities for attempted murder
ICE - August 12, 2024
ERO Boston agents deported a Brazilian fugitive on August 9, 2024, who was wanted in Brazil for attempted murder. The individual had entered the U.S. illegally and was located and arrested by U.S. authorities. His removal underscores international law enforcement cooperation and the U.S. commitment to public safety by removing dangerous individuals from its communities.
ICE executes removal flights for adult family units in August
ICE - August 9, 2024
ICE conducted removal flights for adult family units on August 9, 2024, as part of its efforts to enforce U.S. immigration laws. The flights, which included individuals and families, were conducted to ensure that those without lawful status in the country were returned to their home countries. ICE remains committed to enforcing immigration law in a firm but humane manner, ensuring that deportations are conducted with respect for the rights of deportees.
ERO Boston removes a Brazilian fugitive from the US.
ICE - August 8, 2024
ERO Boston deported Adinan De Souza-Fontoura, a 42-year-old Brazilian citizen who was convicted of armed carjacking in Brazil. After illegally entering the U.S. in 2021 and being arrested in Quincy, Massachusetts, in May 2024, an immigration judge ordered his removal. De Souza-Fontoura had fled Brazil to avoid serving a five-year prison sentence. He was turned over to Brazilian authorities on July 26, 2024 to face justice in his home country.
ERO Boston arrests Dominican national on fentanyl trafficking charges in Rhode Island
ICE - August 8, 2024
ERO Boston agents arrested Yohan Perez-Chala, a 39-year-old Dominican national, on fentanyl trafficking charges in Providence, Rhode Island. The individual illegally entered the U.S. in 2023 and was initially arrested in May 2024 by local law enforcement. Although ICE had issued an immigration detainer, the Rhode Island Department of Corrections released him on July 15, 2024. ERO Boston recaptured him in Cranston, ensuring that he faces justice for his crimes and immigration violations.
ICE executes 50 detainers in a single day nationwide
ICE - August 8, 2024
ICE conducted a nationwide operation that resulted in the execution of 50 warrants in a single day. The operation focused on the apprehension of individuals with serious criminal histories, including violent crimes and drug trafficking. This action underscores ICE's commitment to law enforcement and homeland security, demonstrating its ability to effectively coordinate and execute large-scale operations to protect American communities.
ERO New York arrests Honduran national on auto theft and assault conviction
ICE - August 7, 2024
ERO New York agents arrested a Honduran national on August 1, 2024, on charges of auto theft and convicted of assault in Nassau County, New York. The individual illegally entered the U.S. in 2019 and was first apprehended near Eagle Pass, Texas. He was subsequently arrested in New York for his involvement in a violent armed robbery, where he and his father assaulted a victim. The Honduran national was convicted of third-degree assault and is now in ICE custody while his father remains in local custody.
ERO Boston arrests Guatemalan national accused of sex crime against a minor in Rhode Island
ICE - August 7, 2024
ERO Boston agents arrested a Guatemalan national accused of a sex crime against a minor in Rhode Island. The individual, who entered the U.S. illegally, was identified and arrested after local authorities accused him of committing a criminal sexual act against a minor. This arrest reinforces ERO's commitment to protecting children and eliminating threats within communities.
ERO Boston arrests Ecuadorian national on local charges of kidnapping, rape and assault
ICE - August 7, 2024
ERO Boston arrested an Ecuadorian national accused of kidnapping, rape and assault in Rhode Island. The man was arrested after being charged with several violent crimes, and now faces felony charges in local court. This case underscores ERO Boston's focus on ensuring that dangerous individuals are removed from communities, thereby protecting public safety in New England.
Mexican citizen convicted of illegal re-entry into U.S. after being deported for sex crimes
ICE - August 6, 2024
A Mexican national was convicted of illegally re-entering the U.S. after previously being deported for sex crimes. ERO Boston arrested him after he returned to the country without authorization. The conviction reinforces the importance of enforcing immigration laws, especially in cases involving sex offenders, to protect the public and ensure community safety.
Statement on free cell phone minutes provided during public health emergency by COVID-19
ICE - August 6, 2024
During the COVID-19 public health emergency, ICE provided 520 minutes of free monthly phone calls to individuals in its custody to maintain communication with family members and attorneys due to the suspension of in-person visitation per CDC guidelines. With the end of the emergency, in-person visitation was reinstated and virtual visitation with attorneys was expanded. However, ICE ended the toll-free program to reduce costs, saving $10.2 million. The agency says it would reinstate the program if adequate funding were available.
ERO Boston arrests Dominican national on drug charges in Massachusetts
ICE - August 5, 2024
ERO Boston agents arrested a Dominican national on drug trafficking charges in Massachusetts. The individual, who had entered the U.S. illegally, was arrested for his involvement in criminal activity related to trafficking in controlled substances. ERO Boston continues to prioritize public safety by identifying and removing individuals involved in serious crimes, underscoring its commitment to protecting New England communities from the influence of dangerous criminals.
IMPORTANT INFORMATION
These summaries provide a quick overview of the most important topics. While these summaries aim to be accurate, it is critical to read the articles or watch the full videos for a complete understanding. I share this information to help you stay informed, but the final interpretation of each article or video is up to you.
IMMIGRATION CONSULTATION
News and information found on the Internet is of a general nature and should not be construed as specific legal advice for any individual, case or situation.
Anyone who has questions about U.S. immigration law, including whether or not a particular immigration law applies to his or her situation, should immediately seek advice from a licensed and experienced U.S. immigration attorney to determine his or her immigration legal options.
Avoid being victim of immigration fraud and never consult with notaries, immigration consultants, paper-fillers, multi-services and others. unlicensed persons to obtain immigration legal advice.
Nelson A. Castillo is an immigration attorney with more than 20 years of legal experience and author of La Tarjeta Verde: Cómo Obtener la Residencia Permanente en los Estados Unidos (Green Card: How to Obtain Permanent Residence in the United States). He is a former President of the Hispanic National Bar Association and the Westlake South Neighborhood Council of Los Angeles.
To program a immigration consultation with Dr. Castillo, click on the link.