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
Online Tool Interruptions
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services - May 13, 2024
USCIS will perform electronic system maintenance (CRIS) from Wednesday, May 15 at 11:50 p.m. through Thursday, May 16 at 2:00 a.m. (Eastern Daylight Time). During this period, there may be disruptions to various online tools such as My Case Status, E-request, Online Address Change, and others. Users are advised to plan accordingly and apologize for any inconvenience.
Visa Bulletin June 2024
Immigration Today® - May 9, 2024
The June 2024 Visa Bulletin includes dates for filing applications and final action on issuance of immigrant visas, crucial for consular applicants. The family-based (F1, F2A, F2B, F3, F4) and employment-based (EB-1, EB-2, EB-3, EB-4, EB-5) preference categories are updated, highlighting specific changes by country of origin that affect visa availability. This bulletin is essential in determining when applicants can proceed with their applications, reflecting demand and available visa allocations, making it easier for immigrants and their attorneys to properly plan toward permanent residence or adjustment of status in the United States.
Immigrant Veterans in the United States
Migration Policy Institute - 9 May 2024
Immigrants have served in the U.S. military since the nation's founding. In 2022, about 731,000 non-U.S.-born veterans make up 4.5% of the nation's 16.2 million veterans. Most of these immigrant veterans are naturalized citizens and have access to military service benefits during and after presidentially designated conflicts. With significant diversity in their racial and ethnic composition, these veterans exhibit a higher employment rate and better socioeconomic indicators compared to U.S.-born veterans. The law has facilitated naturalization during periods of active duty, reflecting the importance of immigrants in the military.
Elevating Welcome Work in the Lone Star State: Welcome Interactive 2024
Immigration Impact - May 10, 2024
Dallas has demonstrated how local communities can lead in creating welcoming environments for all residents, even in the face of federal inaction and harmful state policies. Since 2018, the city has implemented more than 80% of the recommendations of the Dallas Welcoming Strategic Plan, aimed at the civic, economic, linguistic, and social integration of immigrants and residents. In 2024, Dallas hosted the Interactive Welcome conference, bringing together leaders from various sectors to share innovative inclusion practices and strategies.
Biden's New H-2A Rule Expands Protections and Increases Oversight for Migrant Workers
Immigration Impact - May 9, 2024
The U.S. Department of Labor's new regulation, effective June 2024, significantly expands protections for H-2A visa workers and strengthens oversight over their employers. This measure addresses concerns about exploitation and ensures greater transparency and fair standards in the employment process. It includes a prohibition on withholding immigration documents from workers and establishes specific criteria for their dismissal, preventing unfair terminations.
A Latina warrior who led her own and lives to help others
Telemundo News - May 10, 2024
Estela Chamu, after facing abuse and violence 40 years ago and the desertion of her children's father, dedicated her life to guiding her family and serving the community. Today, Estela is not only a mother and grandmother, but also an active volunteer working for a better society.
80-year-old arrives in the U.S. after a journey of more than eight months
Univision News - May 10, 2024
Maria del Carmen Sabogal, an 80-year-old Venezuelan woman, managed to reach the American dream after crossing seven countries for eight months. Now on U.S. soil, Maria thanks God for allowing her to be reunited with her family in the United States, highlighting her perseverance and desire for a better life.
Justice Dept. sues Iowa over unconstitutional immigration law
U.S. Department of Justice - May 9, 2024
The U.S. Department of Justice has filed suit against the state of Iowa, challenging SF 2340 as unconstitutional under the Supremacy Clause and the Foreign Commerce Clause of the Constitution. This state law creates a new state crime for illegal reentry and could interfere with federal regulation of immigration, including the removal of non-citizens and affecting the federal government's conduct of foreign relations.
Civil rights groups sue to block Iowa's SF 2340 law
American Immigration Council - May 9, 2024
Civil rights groups have filed a lawsuit to block Iowa's SF 2340, which has been called one of the most harmful and sweeping immigration laws. The law contradicts federal law by criminalizing the re-entry of previously deported individuals who are now authorized to be in the U.S., such as asylees and crime victims. This state act could lead to unjust arrests and deportations, including of legal residents and minors.
DHS Announces Proposed Rule and Other Measures to Enhance Security and Streamline Asylum Processing
U.S. Department of Homeland Security - May 9, 2024
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has published a new proposed rule that allows for legal barriers to asylum to be applied much earlier in the screening process. This measure seeks to more quickly remove those who pose a threat to national security or public safety. In addition, DHS will update its policies on the use of classified information in immigration proceedings, ensuring a more efficient and secure process at the border and within the country.
Participation of the Chief Executive Officer in the Los Angeles Declaration on Migration and Protection
U.S. Department of Homeland Security - May 9, 2024
Kristie Canegallo, acting as Deputy Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security, participated in the third ministerial meeting of the Los Angeles Declaration on Migration and Protection in Guatemala City. During the event, agreements were signed to enhance hemispheric security and promote labor mobility, highlighting the U.S. commitment to expanding legal pathways and international cooperation to address the root causes of migration.
USCIS Clarifies Policy on Location of H-3 Trainings
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services - May 8, 2024
USCIS has issued guidance in the Policy Manual that clarifies the conditions under which H-3 nonimmigrants may receive training at academic or vocational institution facilities. This update specifies that training at such facilities is acceptable if it is primarily created and sponsored by non-academic entities, ensuring that H-3 visa requirements are met.
Centralization of the VAWA Autopetition Process in the Nebraska Service Center
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services - May 7, 2024
As of April 1, 2024, USCIS has centralized the intake of Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) self-petitions and related applications at the Nebraska Service Center. This move seeks to improve processing efficiency by eliminating the need to transfer cases to the Vermont Service Center and sending transfer notices, thereby streamlining the processing of self-petitions from battered spouses, children, and parents.
Remarks by U.S. Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken and Guatemalan President Bernardo Arévalo prior to their meeting
U.S. Department of State - May 7, 2024
Antony J. Blinken and Guatemalan President Bernardo Arevalo discussed cooperation on security, dignity and economic opportunity at their meeting in Guatemala City. Blinken underscored the U.S. commitment to Guatemala in fighting corruption and strengthening the Guatemalan economy, while also focusing on the importance of collaboration to address the challenges of migration and improving lives in the hemisphere.
How will Guatemala address the migration crisis to the U.S.?
CNN en Español - May 10, 2024
The Ministerial Meeting on the Los Angeles Declaration, held in Guatemala, discussed irregular migration in the presence of high-level officials including Guatemalan President Bernardo Arevalo and U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken. Strategies for managing the migration crisis were explored, underscoring international collaboration as key to addressing the challenges it presents.
U.S. humanitarian assistance for the Western Hemisphere
U.S. Department of State - May 7, 2024
Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken announced an allocation of $578 million in humanitarian and development assistance during the Los Angeles Declaration on Migration and Protection ministerial meeting in Guatemala City. This assistance supports vulnerable refugees and migrants in the Western Hemisphere, including programs to improve living conditions and strengthen the asylum and migration systems of countries in the region.
Virtual press conference with Marcela Escobari and Eric Jacobstein
U.S. Department of State - May 7, 2024
At the virtual press conference from Miami, Marcela Escobari and Eric Jacobstein discussed advances in migration management in Central America under the Los Angeles Declaration. Commitments were announced to increase regional cooperation on migration policies, including new initiatives of $$578 million in humanitarian assistance and economic development to strengthen migration management and support host communities, expand legal migration channels, and combat migrant smuggling networks.
United States announces additional support for Venezuelans and vulnerable migrants in the region
U.S. Department of State - May 7, 2024
The United States has committed $578 million in humanitarian and development assistance to respond to the urgent needs of vulnerable migrants in Latin America, including Venezuelans displaced by the crisis in their country. This funding will support the expansion of legal pathways and the integration of migrants, with a significant portion earmarked for direct humanitarian assistance through USAID, including emergency medical and food assistance for Venezuelans both inside and outside their country of origin.
"The right path": the long journey to asylum of a Venezuelan family
Univision News - May 10, 2024
The documentary "The Right Path" follows the Pabón family, among the 8 million Venezuelans who have left their country. This account details their arduous journey to asylum in the United States, reflecting the hardships and hopes of those seeking a better future in a new country.
Fact Sheet: Third ministerial meeting of the "Los Angeles Declaration on Migration and Protection" held in Guatemala
U.S. Department of State - May 7, 2024
At the third ministerial meeting of the Los Angeles Declaration, held in Guatemala, $578 million in support for humanitarian and development assistance was announced. The meeting, led by Secretary of State Antony Blinken, reaffirmed regional cooperation to manage migration in a humanitarian and effective manner, including efforts to strengthen the law, expand legal migration channels, and address the root causes of displacement.
Labor Department finds children illegally working in hazardous jobs, secures $$4.8 million for California poultry workers
U.S. Department of Labor - May 9, 2024
A U.S. Department of Labor investigation found that 14-year-old children were illegally employed in hazardous jobs in the poultry industry in California, leading to a $4.8 million settlement to compensate affected workers. The judgment also included stiff penalties against employers for exploiting child labor and for violations of overtime laws, underscoring the Department's commitment to eliminating child labor and ensuring justice for exploited workers.
U.S. Department of Labor finds Arkansas restaurant illegally fired worker who used federally-protected medical leave
U.S. Department of Labor - May 7, 2024
In Arkansas, the U.S. Department of Labor intervened in a case where a restaurant unlawfully terminated an employee for using his right to a statutorily protected medical leave. The worker was compensated more than $11,000 in back wages, highlighting the importance of the Family and Medical Leave Act and the Department's determination to protect workers' rights.
Undocumented family members of citizens urge Biden for legal status and work permits
Univision News - May 8, 2024
A group of 50 undocumented family members of U.S. citizens, including spouses, has petitioned Congress and President Biden to grant humanitarian parole and work permits for hundreds of thousands of undocumented immigrants. This group, accompanied by activists and leaders of immigrant rights organizations, is calling for executive changes in the face of congressional inaction to reform immigration laws. Their plight underscores the complications of the immigration system and the need for solutions that recognize their contribution to U.S. society and allow them to regularize their legal status.
Migrant family lives a drama in the U.S.: the father has a tumor in his head and they have no money
Univision News - May 10, 2024
Santiago Londoño and Laura Ocampo, Colombian immigrants in Tennessee, face a severe crisis after discovering that Santiago has a tumor in his head. Diagnosed shortly after arriving in the U.S., the lack of financial resources has forced them to abandon treatment, plunging them into uncertainty and fear for the future.
U.S. Senate discusses future of DACA: economic contribution vs. national security
Voice of America - May 8, 2024
At a hearing before the U.S. Senate Judiciary Committee, the DACA program was hotly debated, highlighting the contribution of "Dreamers" to the U.S. economy and their integration into society. Supporters of DACA, including young immigrants and lawmakers, argued that providing a path to citizenship is not only fair, but also beneficial to the country. However, some Republican senators questioned the discussion amid border security challenges, showing a divide on how to approach immigration reform in the context of an immigration crisis.
Biden asks judge to limit landmark agreement requiring government to care for unaccompanied immigrant minors
Telemundo News - May 8, 2024
The Joe Biden administration is asking a court to limit the Flores Settlement, a long-standing judicial compact that sets standards for the care of unaccompanied immigrant minors. This move, which aims to exclude the Department of Health from these obligations, could have significant impacts on how these minors are treated in detention facilities. The agreement, in place for 27 years, has been instrumental in promoting the dignified treatment of children in immigration status by establishing standards for their care and housing.
New rule pushed by White House may eliminate Flores agreement
Telemundo News - May 10, 2024
The White House proposal seeks to eliminate the 27-year-old Flores agreement, which provides for the tracking of unaccompanied minors in federal custody. This potential new rule, currently under judicial review, has raised concerns about its impact on the rights of migrant minors.
The Flores agreement has protected migrant children in the U.S. for nearly 3 decades. That could change
Los Angeles Times - May 11, 2024
The U.S. government intends to partially modify the Flores Agreement, which for 27 years has overseen the treatment of migrant children in federal custody. This proposed modification seeks to limit the application of the agreement to the Department of Health and Human Services, removing certain responsibilities and allowing the federal government to establish internal standards for the handling of these minors. This decision is controversial and could reduce transparency and external oversight over how children are treated in detention facilities.
New U.S. rule aims to speed up asylum application process for limited group of migrants
Los Angeles Times - May 9, 2024
The U.S. government has proposed a new rule that seeks to expedite the asylum application process for certain migrants deemed a security threat. This rule will allow asylum officers to quickly screen individuals with serious criminal records or links to terrorism for expedited removal. This measure is a response to criticism over the handling of the southern border and seeks to show control and firmness in a critical election year, although it has generated controversy for its possible impact on the right to asylum.
Biden Administration announces changes to asylum regulations: here are the details
Univision News - May 10, 2024
Joe Biden's administration has proposed a new rule that would expedite the deportation of migrants with criminal records or links to terrorism. This measure, designed to process asylum applications more quickly, has raised concerns about its impact on the rights of asylum seekers.
Possible implications of changes in asylum policies
Telemundo News - May 10, 2024
Recent changes to asylum policies announced would allow agents to reject asylum applications from individuals with criminal records or links to criminal organizations. These adjustments could have significant implications for the asylum process, primarily affecting those with prior criminal histories.
U.S.: San Diego, the sector with the most border crossings in April
Voice of America - May 7, 2024
San Diego has become the point with the most border crossings in April, according to U.S. Border Patrol reports. This increase is attributed to increased controls in other areas such as Texas, shifting migration flows westward. This shift in migration routes underscores the adaptability of migratory movements in response to border control policies implemented along the southern border of the United States.
In Photos | AP's 15 Pulitzer Prize-winning migration images
Voice of America - May 6, 2024
The Associated Press was awarded the 2024 Pulitzer Prize for its powerful photographic series documenting the journey of migrants through Latin America to the United States. The images capture intense and emotional moments of the migrants' struggle and hope, offering a profound visual window into the hardship and resilience in their search for a better future in U.S. territory.
Mother of Honduran immigrant who fell off 'La Bestia' asks for help to go to Mexico
Univision News - May 10, 2024
Elvin Moreira Granados, a young Honduran man, lost his legs after falling off the train known as 'The Beast' in his attempt to migrate. His mother, Enma Rosa Granados, desperately asks for help to be able to travel to Mexico and be by her son's side, reflecting the dramatic impact of migration on families.
Discontent among Mexico City residents over migrant encampments
Telemundo News - May 10, 2024
In Mexico City, the increase in migrant camps has generated discontent among local residents. The "The street is not a shelter" initiative seeks to pressure authorities to relocate migrants, reflecting the tension between initial solidarity and the current challenges of coexistence and security in the affected communities.
Aragua Train's presence in Juarez causes fear
Telemundo News - May 10, 2024
The criminal group Tren de Aragua has intensified its activity in Juarez, generating fear among citizens. The group is known for its involvement in the trafficking, kidnapping, extortion and murder of migrants. Authorities in Chihuahua are on high alert, attempting to counter the expansion of this dangerous gang.
More than 435,000 nationals from Cuba, Nicaragua, Venezuela and Haiti have arrived in the U.S. on humanitarian parole.
Voice of America - May 6, 2024
Since January 2023, more than 435,000 nationals from Cuba, Nicaragua, Venezuela and Haiti have entered the United States under the humanitarian parole program. This policy, expanded to include these four countries, allows for safe and orderly entry for people from nations in critical situations. Simultaneously, the U.S. has returned or expelled more than 690,000 migrants who crossed the border irregularly, evidencing a stricter immigration policy under the Biden administration.
ICE Conducts Removal Flights for Single Adults and Family Units on May 10th
U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement - May 10, 2024
On May 10, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) conducted deportation flights for single adults and family units. These flights were part of a larger operation that from May 6-10 sent individuals to Central America, Colombia, the Dominican Republic, Ecuador and Mexico. The actions align with U.S. policies to swiftly process and remove individuals with no lawful basis to remain in the country, demonstrating ICE's continued commitment to immigration enforcement.
ERO New York City Arrests MS-13 Member Wanted in El Salvador for Terrorist Activities
U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement - May 10, 2024
On May 6, the New York Office of Removal Operations (ERO) arrested a Salvadoran national and MS-13 gang member who was in the United States illegally and is wanted in El Salvador for his involvement in terrorist activities. This action reflects ICE's commitment to national security by removing those who pose a direct threat. The detainee, who was previously deported and illegally re-entered the country, will remain in custody pending extradition to El Salvador.
ERO Denver arrests fugitive wanted for assaulting government official in Guatemala
U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement - May 10, 2024
The Enforcement Removal Operations Office (ERO) in Denver arrested and deported a Guatemalan national wanted for assaulting a government official in his home country. This individual was detained near his residence in Coram and will face justice in Guatemala, demonstrating ERO's commitment to public safety and immigration enforcement.
ERO Boston deports fugitive wanted on gun charges in Brazil
U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement - May 10, 2024
ERO Boston has deported Ronaldo Marcos Da Silva, a Brazilian fugitive wanted in his home country for illegally carrying restricted weapons. He was removed from the United States and turned over to Brazilian authorities, underscoring ERO's international law enforcement cooperation and commitment to community safety.
ERO Boston arrests Guatemalan national convicted locally of rape of a minor and indecent assault
U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement - May 9, 2024
ERO Boston arrested a 25-year-old Guatemalan national previously convicted of two counts of rape of a minor and four counts of indecent assault and battery on a minor. This arrest underscores ICE's commitment to protecting the community and its focus on removing individuals who pose a security threat, especially those who commit crimes against children.
ERO Denver removes fugitive wanted for sexual assault and rape in Costa Rica
U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement - May 9, 2024
ERO officers in Denver deported Jairo Arnoldo Matamoros Solorzano, a Costa Rican national wanted in his home country for rape offenses. The removal was efficiently executed, turning Matamoros over to local authorities in Costa Rica, highlighting ICE's role in public protection and international immigration enforcement.
ERO Boston arrests Cape Verdean national repeatedly convicted of serial lewd conduct
U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement - May 9, 2024
In Boston, ERO has arrested a Cape Verdean national who was in the country illegally and had been repeatedly convicted of public lewdness. This individual had been convicted more than 10 times since 2006 for indecent exposure and open lewd conduct, underscoring ERO's mission to protect communities from individuals who pose threats to public safety.
ERO Boston arrests Dominican national locally charged with child abuse and sexual assault
U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement - May 8, 2024
ERO Boston has arrested an undocumented Dominican national recently charged by Rhode Island police with first and second degree child abuse and sexual assault. This action highlights ERO's ongoing work to protect communities by removing serious violators of immigration and criminal laws.
ERO Boston arrests Bangladeshi national accused locally of child molestation
U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement - May 7, 2024
In Hartford, Connecticut, ERO Boston officers arrested a Bangladeshi national unlawfully present in the country and recently arrested by local police for child sexual abuse. This action reflects ERO's continued commitment to the safety of local communities, prioritizing the arrest and deportation of serious offenders to protect the most vulnerable communities.
Biden's open border policies mean Americans play "recidivist roulette" with foreign criminals
The Heritage Foundation - May 7, 2024
The Heritage Foundation report criticizes open border policies under the Biden administration, arguing that they have allowed thousands of aliens with criminal records to enter and remain in the U.S., increasing the risk of preventable crimes. Lack of immigration enforcement, the policy of no detention, and sanctuary cities that do not cooperate with ICE are pointed to as causes of a situation where crimes committed by illegal aliens are, according to the report, entirely preventable. The paper suggests that measures such as strict immigration enforcement and an end to sanctuary city policies could significantly reduce these crimes.
OTHER NEWS
Hispanic mother becomes a doctor to find treatment for her sick daughter
Univision News - May 10, 2024
Tracy Dixon-Salazar, a Hispanic mother, became a doctor to find a treatment for her daughter, Savannah, who has suffered from epilepsy since the age of 2. Despite the lack of effective medical solutions, Tracy pursued a Ph.D. in genetics and made progress in finding a treatment that improved her daughter's condition.
Climate change in Latin America: how a court can make a difference
Telemundo News - May 7, 2024
The Inter-American Court of Human Rights is evaluating a case that could set a precedent for how Latin American governments should address climate change, given its disproportionate impact on the region. The case, brought by Colombia and Chile, seeks an advisory opinion from the court on state responsibilities for human rights related to the environment. The hearings, which began in Barbados, have seen a massive participation of affected people and experts, suggesting measures such as climate asylum and protections for environmental activists.
Europeans want governments more focused on curbing immigration than climate change, study finds
Los Angeles Times - May 8, 2024
A recent study reveals that Europeans prioritize reducing immigration over the fight against climate change. According to this research, 44% of Germans, for example, want their government to focus primarily on reducing immigration, compared to 24% who see climate change as a priority. The study suggests a significant discrepancy between public perception and government policies on climate and migration issues globally.
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.
For information on how to schedule an immigration consultation with Dr. Castillo, click here. click here.
