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.
By reading these summaries, you will gain quick insights into critical issues, allowing you to make more informed decisions and stay abreast of what is happening in the immigrant community.
Sharing knowledge is key to strengthening our communities. If you find this information useful, I encourage you to share it with your family and friends.
Also, if you are not already subscribed to our email distribution list, I invite you to do so to receive regular updates on immigration issues.
The subscription form can be found at the end of this article. Your privacy is important and we will not sell or disclose your information to third parties.
Thank you for your support!
IMMIGRATION NEWS IN THE UNITED STATES
Orlando Immigration Court At New Address
Immigration Today® - March 18, 2024
The Orlando, Florida Immigration Court has changed its location to improve access and services to immigrants. This change, effective March 18, 2024, represents an effort by the Executive Office for Immigration Review (EOIR) to make the immigration process more efficient and accessible. Hearings and proceedings continue without interruption, and affected parties have been notified of relevant changes to their cases. It is crucial to stay informed of the court's operational status through the EOIR website.
U.S. announced help for certain Venezuelans to obtain work permits
El Diario NY - March 17, 2024
The U.S. government has implemented special measures under the name Special Student Relief, active from March 11, 2024 through September 10, 2025, to support Venezuelan non-immigrant students on F-1 visas. This program allows beneficiaries to work longer hours and reduce their academic load without losing their status, in response to the economic crisis in Venezuela. Beneficiaries include citizens of Venezuela or non-citizens who were habitual residents there, who were already in the U.S. under F-1 nonimmigrant status at the time of the announcement, and who face severe economic hardship. Students must apply through a designated school official and file Form I-765 to obtain off-campus work authorization. This initiative seeks to alleviate the financial hardship of Venezuelan students and allow them to continue their studies in the United States.
Supreme Court extends block on Texas law empowering police to detain migrants
Los Angeles Times in English - March 18, 2024
The U.S. Supreme Court extended indefinitely the block on Texas' SB4 law, which would have granted police broad authority to detain migrants suspected of entering the country illegally. This decision, signed by Justice Samuel Alito, maintains the stay "until further notice." SB4, considered a drastic attempt by one state to control immigration, has been criticized by the federal government, arguing that it usurps federal immigration authority, damages international relations and causes chaos in immigration enforcement. The legal battle continues, reflecting disputes between Texas officials and the Biden administration over immigration control and the border with Mexico.
Texas SB4: Supreme Court again suspends its entry into force, now indefinitely
Univision News - March 18, 2024
The U.S. Supreme Court has indefinitely stayed indefinitely the implementation of Texas' SB4 law, a rule that would allow state law enforcement to detain illegal immigrants. The decision, made Monday after a previous stay expired, blocks implementation of a law that has been a source of controversy for challenging federal immigration and border security authority. The law, part of Governor Greg Abbott's challenge to White House immigration policy, has been criticized for altering the historic balance between the federal government and the states on immigration issues, with potential implications for international relations and the administration of immigration laws.
Supreme Court indefinitely suspends controversial Texas immigration law
Voice of America - March 18, 2024
The U.S. Supreme Court has indefinitely suspended the enactment of SB4 in Texas, following a lawsuit filed by the Department of Justice. The lawsuit claims that Texas improperly assumed exclusive immigration authority from the federal government, putting a temporary halt to a law that has generated widespread debate about its implications for migrants' rights.
Immigrants react with relief to indefinite blocking of Texas SB-4 law
Telemundo News - March 18, 2024
The U.S. Supreme Court extended the temporary blocking of Texas' SB-4 law, a move that has generated relief among the immigrant community. This law, which has been the subject of controversy and lawsuits, sought to impose severe restrictions on immigrants in the state, highlighting the importance of the legal fight in the defense of immigrant rights.
Thousands of immigration cases remain on hold: this is the county with the most pending asylum applications
Univision News - March 18, 2024
Immigration court delays have left thousands of families in uncertainty, especially in Florida, where the county with the largest backlog of cases exceeds 238,000, including more than 138,000 asylum applications. Some immigrants have been waiting for answers for up to 10 years, highlighting the urgent need for reforms in the immigration system.
Are migrants seeking asylum at the border "undocumented"? We explain the difference
Univision News - March 18, 2024
Jorge Cancino, Univision's senior immigration editor, clarifies the correct terminology to refer to immigrants without the ability to prove their legal status in the United States and who are not covered by immigration law, highlighting the legal and social implications of these labels.
Keys to protection program for thousands of immigrants facing court challenge (podcast)
El Diario NY - March 18, 2024
In January 2023, the Biden Administration launched a parole program to allow the monthly arrival of up to 30,000 immigrants from Cuba, Haiti, Nicaragua, and Venezuela. This program, which requires sponsorship by U.S. citizens demonstrating financial ability, seeks to reduce irregular immigration and help families. However, it faces legal challenges, led by Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton, who, along with 19 states, alleges that the program affects their budgets and services. On March 8, Judge Drew Tipton dismissed the lawsuit, finding no evidence of the "harm" alleged. The case, championed by both the administration and coalitions of organizations, is notable for its legal and social implications for U.S. immigration policy.
What factor is driving Salvadorans to reduce their intention to migrate to the U.S.?
Univision News - March 18, 2024
Improved citizen security under the Nayib Bukele administration is motivating Salvadorans to stay in their country. The U.S. Border Patrol has observed a notable decrease in apprehensions of Salvadoran migrants at the southern border, evidencing a significant change in the migration trend.
ERO New York City arrests previously removed Ecuadorian citizen convicted of involuntary manslaughter of newborn child
ICE - March 18, 2024
On March 15, New York's Office of Removal and Removal Operations (ERO) arrested Maria Oliva Guaman, an Ecuadorian citizen illegally present in the U.S. and convicted by the New York Supreme Court of involuntary manslaughter of a newborn. Guaman, who illegally entered the U.S. on an unknown date, was removed to Ecuador in 2009 but re-entered illegally. She was arrested in 2013 for murder and sentenced in 2014 to 12 years in prison. She is currently being held without bail pending removal proceedings. This case underscores ERO's mission to protect public safety and the integrity of U.S. immigration laws.
Operators of large-scale marriage fraud agency sentenced after investigation by HSI San Diego and partners
ICE - March 16, 2024
Four California-based individuals have been sentenced for operating a large-scale marriage fraud agency that arranged hundreds of sham marriages to evade immigration laws, including fraudulent applications for green cards under the Violence Against Women Act, by falsely claiming that the undocumented clients had been abused by U.S. spouses. The investigation was conducted by Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), the FBI and U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services. The defendants, all Philippine nationals and residents of Los Angeles, were arrested along with seven others for conspiracy to commit marriage fraud and immigration document fraud in April 2022. Among those sentenced, Marcialito Biol Benitez was sentenced to 22 months in prison and three years of supervised release. The defendants arranged sham weddings, prepared and filed fraudulent petitions and documents to adjust the immigration status of clients in exchange for payments of between $20,000 and $35,000 in cash.
Organization denounced that the Border Patrol did not report the death of 38 migrants during 2022.
El Diario NY - March 18, 2024
The organization No More Deaths revealed that the U.S. Border Patrol underreported the deaths of 38 migrants at the southern border of New Mexico and West Texas during 2022. According to the report, while CBP reported 71 deaths, the organization counted 109 in the same period. This gap is not new, highlighting a trend of underreporting of migrant deaths in the region. The report also notes that 15% of all migrant deaths were attributed to the use of force, including chases and deaths in custody. Worryingly, there has been an unprecedented increase in female migrant deaths in the El Paso sector, with 51% of the 139 deaths reported in 2023. The organization made recommendations to improve transparency and shared a database and map of deaths to facilitate visualization of this information.
Measles outbreak detected among migrants staying in Chicago shelter
Voice of America - March 18, 2024
A measles outbreak has been identified in a shelter for migrant asylum seekers in Chicago, primarily affecting children attending public schools in the city. This outbreak highlights the health challenges faced by migrants housed in high-density conditions, underscoring the importance of preventive and public health measures in these settings.
Immigrants evicted from Chicago shelters: some stayed for having these conditions
El Diario NY - March 18, 2024
Chicago evicted 34 undocumented migrants from shelters, although some with specific conditions remained. This comes as the city houses 12,000 migrant refugees, down from 15,000 in previous months. The decision follows the closure of four shelters and is in line with the mayor's policy of limiting the stay to 60 days, extended during the winter. Those remaining include families with children, pregnant women, the sick, and those in the process of securing permanent housing. The measure seeks to prioritize beds for families and minimize disruption to the school year. Those evicted may be relocated if available, with the new requirement for disease vaccinations to prevent measles outbreaks. Chicago follows New York's lead in limiting shelter stays, setting a trend in the handling of the immigration crisis in U.S. cities.
Migrants evicted from Chicago shelters due to rule issued in 2023
Telemundo News - March 18, 2024
A regulation implemented in November 2023 in Chicago, which limits the stay of undocumented migrants in shelters to 60 days, has led to the eviction of migrants. Despite this regulation, more than 10,000 migrants continue to live in shelters in the city, facing uncertainty about their future and access to basic services.
Options for migrants evicted from Chicago shelters
Telemundo News - March 18, 2024
Beatriz Ponce de Leon, deputy mayor for immigrant and refugee rights in Chicago, illustrates the alternatives available to migrants evicted from shelters. Some may avail themselves of the state rental assistance program, while others could apply for a 30-day extension in shelters, offering a temporary respite in their search for stability.
Arizona migrant shelter announces closure due to lack of federal funding
Univision News - March 18, 2024
The Casa Alitas shelter in Arizona, which provides assistance to 1,400 migrants, faces the cessation of most of its operations at the end of March due to the absence of federal funding. The reduction of its capacity to 140 people represents a severe blow to thousands of undocumented immigrants who depend on its services.
A man who claimed to belong to the Hezbollah terrorist group was arrested at the Mexican border.
Telemundo News - March 18, 2024
Border Patrol agents apprehended a Lebanese migrant near El Paso, Texas, who claimed to be a member of Hezbollah, headed to New York and attempting to make a bomb. The individual, identified by the New York Post as Basel Bassel Ebbadi, 22, was arrested on March 9. Ebbadi confessed to training with Hezbollah and his intention to make a bomb. He is now in the custody of U.S. authorities, with an ongoing investigation. This case adds to a growing number of individuals on terrorist lists attempting to enter the U.S. across the southern border. In FY2023, 160 migrants with names in the terrorist databank were apprehended, an increase from the previous year.
Former Hezbollah group member arrested in US: planned to build a bomb in New York City
Univision News - March 18, 2024
The U.S. Border Patrol arrested a Lebanese immigrant, a former member of Hezbollah, who confessed to plans to build a bomb in New York to target non-Muslims. This case highlights the complex dimensions of national security and border enforcement.
Increased flow of the Río Bravo in Ciudad Juárez increases risk for irregular migrants
Voice of America - March 18, 2024
The increase in the flow of the Río Bravo in Ciudad Juárez has significantly increased the risk for migrants attempting to cross irregularly into the United States. This change, caused by the discharge of water from other tributaries, has further complicated the already dangerous journey of migrants, exposing them to greater danger of drowning and other tragedies.
The rise in the level of the Rio Grande River makes crossing into the U.S. more dangerous.
Telemundo News - March 18, 2024
The level of the Rio Bravo has risen significantly after more water was released from tributaries to comply with a distribution treaty. This situation has increased the danger for migrants attempting to cross into the United States, with the Coahuila prosecutor's office reporting 13 drownings between January and February 2024, adding an emotionally serious dimension to the migrants' already risky journey.
How the criminal link was forged between Sinaloa and Los Angeles, the cartel's holdout since the 1970s
Univision News - March 18, 2024
Since the 1970s, the Sinaloa Cartel established a complex network of operations in Los Angeles, becoming a central hub for money laundering. The DEA notes that, despite the extradition of Ovidio Guzman, the sons of 'El Chapo' Guzman continue to be heavily involved in the production and trafficking of fentanyl into California, keeping the cartel's operations alive.
Be careful when renting your home through apps: this is how you could be involved with organized crime
Univision News - March 18, 2024
Police in Mexico are warning of a new modus operandi of criminals renting properties through apps to hide money, weapons, and drugs destined for the United States. The owners of these homes could face charges of complicity with organized crime.
Statement by Communications Director Kirsten Allen on the visit of President Arevalo of Guatemala to the White House
The White House - March 18, 2024
On March 25, Vice President Harris will host President Bernardo Arevalo of Guatemala at the White House, marking a milestone in the U.S. commitment to good governance and democracy in Guatemala following the inauguration of President Arevalo in January 2024. This meeting seeks to strengthen the U.S.-Guatemala bilateral relationship by promoting development, democracy and addressing the root causes of migration. Additional efforts to address the drivers of irregular migration from Central America will be discussed in areas such as civil security, good governance, human rights and labor protections, gender-based violence, and economic opportunity. In addition, during the visit, the Vice President will convene government, private sector and civil society leaders as part of Central America Forward, a public-private partnership that has mobilized more than $$4.2 billion in commitments, generating private sector investment in northern Central America.
OTHER NEWS
Unstoppable women: A Latina runs a major hospital in New York City
Telemundo News - March 18, 2024
Helen Arteaga becomes the first woman to head Elmhurst Hospital in New York, one of the most critical in the city. Originally from Ecuador, her arrival in the United States and the personal challenge to better herself became a life mission after her father's illness, demonstrating the positive impact that immigrants can have on American society.
Unstoppable women: how a Latina grew up in a male-dominated world
Telemundo News - March 18, 2024
Raquel Diaz, originally from Ecuador and moved to New York at age 18, overcame the language challenge and enrolled in college within months of her arrival. Now, as an engineer, she holds a leadership position in a construction firm, demonstrating how she has grown up in a traditionally male-dominated sector.
FAFSA changes cause confusion for students
Telemundo News - March 18, 2024
Updating the FAFSA to correct errors in the system has created confusion among students, who are having difficulty determining the amount of federal aid they will receive. This setback affects their ability to choose college before the enrollment deadline, putting their academic and financial planning at risk.
Lived on the streets and survived a shooting, now seeks to become a doctor
First Impact - March 18, 2024
Denis Peña, who grew up on the streets of Colombia after the death of his mother and the abandonment of his drug-addicted father, has overcome enormous obstacles, including living on the streets and surviving a shooting. Now, with unwavering determination, he seeks to become a doctor, proving that it is possible to overcome the most challenging adversities.
Mexicana shows her talent and knowledge in Mexico City's Zocalo
Telemundo News - March 18, 2024
Elisa Carrillo, a leading Mexican dancer, shared her passion and skill in classical dance during a master class offered to thousands of people in Mexico City's Zócalo. Based in Berlin, Carrillo has reached the highest levels in the dance world without forgetting her roots, inspiring her audience with an event described as "full of magic".
Protesters in Cuba reject power outages and food shortages
CNN en Español - March 18, 2024
In Santiago de Cuba, demonstrators protest against power cuts and food shortages, expressing their discontent in a series of videos circulating on social networks. This situation reflects the difficulties faced by the Cuban population in the face of the energy and food crisis on the island.
Argentina: thousands of demonstrators demand state aid for community kitchens
DW English - March 18, 2024
In Argentina, representatives of social organizations are mobilizing to demand that Javier Milei's government reinstate the distribution of food for community kitchens. Nearly 60% of the Argentine population lives below the poverty line, and cuts in state aid aggravate the situation.
"Coffin clubs", a way to face the taboo of death
DW English - March 18, 2024
In New Zealand, "coffin clubs" offer members the opportunity to prepare for their final resting place in a communal and humorous way. These clubs seek to confront the taboo of death, allowing people to talk and think openly about their end in a less fearful and more accepting way.
IMPORTANT INFORMATION
I have used an artificial intelligence tool, programmed with specific instructions, to summarize each article or video. These summaries provide a quick overview of the most important topics.
While these summaries are intended 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 be informed, but the final interpretation of each article or video is up to you.
As the distributor of this information, I assume no responsibility for the details or interpretations of the summaries. My goal is to provide you with quick and efficient access to the most important immigration news, helping you stay informed and connected to your community.
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.
English 
Español