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
USCIS - August 20, 2024
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) announced temporary outages to several of its online tools due to system maintenance. These outages will affect the CRIS system from 11:50 p.m. on August 21 through 2:00 a.m. on August 22. During this time, users may face difficulties accessing tools such as case status inquiry, online change of address, physician locator, and online filing. USCIS regrets the inconvenience caused.
DHS Implements Keeping Families Together
USCIS - August 19, 2024
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has launched the "Keeping Families Together" process to facilitate the stay of certain spouses and stepchildren of U.S. citizens in the U.S. This process seeks to reduce immigration barriers, promote family stability, and contribute to national security. Eligible applicants must file Form I-131F online and meet specific criteria, such as continuous physical presence in the U.S. since 2014. USCIS estimates that 550,000 individuals could benefit from this initiative.
Undocumented immigrants with U.S. spouses can now apply for immigration relief
Voice of America - August 19, 2024
The United States has begun receiving applications for immigration relief for undocumented immigrants who have U.S. spouses or stepparents and who have lived in the country for at least a decade. This new policy offers an opportunity to regularize the status of many immigrants, who must meet certain requirements to be eligible. Journalist Laura Sepúlveda details the process, explaining that this measure is part of a broader effort to offer legal options to those who have lived in the U.S. for years without a regularized immigration status.
USCIS Publishes Keeping Families Together Petition Filing Guide
USCIS - August 16, 2024
USCIS announced the availability of Form I-131F beginning August 19, 2024, allowing spouses and stepchildren of U.S. citizens to apply for temporary permission to stay in the U.S. Filing is only possible online, and USCIS warns against scams related to this process, urging the use of official sources. Applicants must create a myUSCIS account to file the form. In addition, USCIS has published detailed guidelines to help applicants avoid scams and complete the process correctly.
U.S. Department of Homeland Security Recognizes 190 Employees at Secretary's Awards Ceremony
DHS - August 15, 2024
On August 15, 2024, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) held a ceremony at the Federal Law Enforcement Training Center in Georgia, where 190 employees were presented with the Secretary's Award for outstanding contributions to the DHS mission. These awards recognize personnel from various DHS agencies, including ICE, TSA, and the Coast Guard. Award recipients contributed to the fight against human trafficking, cybercrime, and smuggling, and improved the nation's critical infrastructure, among other outstanding achievements.
The annual limit is reached in the EB-3 and EW categories.
U.S. Department of State - August 16, 2024
The U.S. Department of State has announced that the annual cap on visas in the Employment-Based Third Preference (EB-3) and Other Workers (EW) categories has been reached for fiscal year 2024. This means that embassies and consulates will not be able to issue any more visas in these categories until the start of the new fiscal year in October 2024. This limit is part of the Immigration and Nationality Act, which sets the maximum number of visas available in these categories for each fiscal year.
The annual limit is reached in the EB-5 category.
U.S. Department of State - August 16, 2024
The Department of State announced that the annual limit of visas in the EB-5 non-reserved category has been reached for fiscal year 2024. This category is intended for investors who create jobs in the U.S. Embassies and consulates will no longer issue non-reserved EB-5 visas until the new fiscal year, which begins October 1, 2024. Visas in this category will be re-allocated with the start of fiscal year 2025.
EOIR announces EOIR University
EOIR - August 19, 2024
The Executive Office for Immigration Review (EOIR) has launched EOIR University in Los Angeles, a free training facility for individuals interested in representing individuals in the U.S. immigration system. As part of the Access EOIR Initiative, this university seeks to improve access to information and help respondents navigate the immigration court system. On September 24, 2024, it will launch with a live hybrid session of the Model Hearing Program, followed by five days of training in immigration law and procedures. This resource is designed to overcome barriers to accreditation and encourage pro bono representation by providing participants with the knowledge necessary for immigration cases.
EOIR to relocate Houston Immigration Court - Smith Street
EOIR - August 15, 2024
The Executive Office for Immigration Review (EOIR) announced the relocation and name change of the Houston Immigration Court - Smith Street to the Houston Immigration Court - Jefferson Street. The move will take place after the court suspends operations on August 22, 2024, reopening at the new location on August 27, 2024. During the transition, hearings on August 23 and 26 will be held at 1919 Smith Street, which will become the courthouse annex. The court's new main location will be at 500 Jefferson Street, Suite 300, Houston, TX, with business hours from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday. EOIR will notify all parties with reassigned cases and ensure staff availability for presentations and consultations during the transition. EOIR, part of the Department of Justice, is responsible for adjudicating immigration cases fairly and efficiently.
Mexican government recognizes the contribution of migrants in the U.S.
Voice of America - August 20, 2024
The government of Andrés Manuel López Obrador highlighted the achievements of his administration in immigration matters during the last weeks of his six-year term. The important contribution of the large Mexican diaspora in the United States was recognized, highlighting the positive impact of migrants on the economy and culture of both nations. President López Obrador emphasized the need to continue strengthening ties between Mexico and its migrant community abroad. In addition, the importance of remittances sent from the U.S. and the social and economic support they represent for many Mexican families was also discussed.
Deportations begin within the framework of the Panama-U.S. agreement
Voice of America - August 20, 2024
Panama has begun deporting migrants crossing the dangerous Darien jungle as part of a recently signed agreement with the United States. This initial process is aimed primarily at Colombian nationals, who are being repatriated from Panama. The agreement seeks to stem the flow of irregular migration and improve security in the region. Also mentioned was the collaboration between the two countries to manage and control migratory movements in this critical area, which has been a key point in the migration routes to North America.
Decrease in the number of migrants processed at the southern border of the U.S.
Voice of America - August 19, 2024
The White House and Customs and Border Protection (CBP) have reported a reduction in the number of irregular migrants processed at the southern border of the United States. This decrease is attributed to new immigration policies implemented in the region, which have intensified border control and surveillance. From El Paso, Texas, it is noted that the measures are helping to mitigate the migratory flow, although challenges related to security and migrant management persist.
CBP Monthly Update - July 2024
CBP - August 16, 2024
U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) reported a 32% decrease in encounters at the Southwest border in July 2024, the lowest figure since September 2020. This drop was driven by a presidential proclamation issued in June restricting the entry of certain non-citizens. CBP also seized the largest amount of fentanyl in its history in July and conducted 4,480 migrant rescues so far this fiscal year.
CBP and U.S. Chamber of Commerce urge back-to-school shoppers to beware of counterfeit goods
CBP - August 15, 2024
U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) and the U.S. Chamber of Commerce are warning consumers about the dangers of counterfeit products when buying school supplies. Counterfeit products can contain dangerous materials and harm the economy. In 2023, CBP seized more than 23 million counterfeit items with a potential value of $2.7 billion. Consumers are encouraged to purchase authentic products from trusted retailers to protect themselves and support legitimate businesses.
ERO Boston arrests Brazilian national on charges of attempted murder and kidnapping
ICE - August 20, 2024
Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO) Boston arrested Evandro Ribeiro-Rosa, a Brazilian national charged with attempted murder, stalking and kidnapping in Massachusetts. The detainee, who entered the U.S. illegally in 2021, was previously arrested by local police, but was released on bail. ERO Boston eventually detained him under an immigration detainer for possible deportation.
ERO Boston arrests Guatemalan national on charges of illegal reentry, assault and battery
ICE - August 19, 2024
ERO Boston arrested Darvin Joel Mendez-Lopez, a Guatemalan national charged with illegal re-entry and assault on a family member. Mendez-Lopez had previously been deported in 2015 but illegally re-entered the U.S. He was arrested on July 23, 2024 as part of a nationwide arrest operation conducted by ICE targeting immigrants who pose a threat to public safety.
Statement by ICE Deputy Director on the apprehension of "El Mayo" Zambada
ICE - August 16, 2024
US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) Deputy Director Patrick J. Lechleitner clarified the role of Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) in the apprehension of "El Mayo" Zambada. HSI only participated in the execution of the arrest on U.S. soil near El Paso, Texas, on July 25, 2024, making it clear that they had no other involvement in the operation.
ICE conducts removal flights of single adults and family units
ICE - August 16, 2024
ICE continued its removal operations between August 12 and August 16, repatriating single adults and families to Brazil, Central America, Colombia, Ecuador and Mexico. These actions are part of DHS' efforts to comply with U.S. immigration law, removing more than 742,000 individuals in the last fiscal year.
ERO Boston arrests Haitian national accused of raping girl in migrant shelter
ICE - August 15, 2024
ERO Boston arrested Cory Bernard Alvarez, a Haitian national accused of raping a minor at a migrant shelter in Massachusetts. Despite an immigration detainer, Alvarez was released on bail by a local court. ERO Boston subsequently arrested him near his Brockton residence. Alvarez remains in immigration custody while he faces charges in Massachusetts criminal courts.
ERO Boston arrests Brazilian national accused of sex crimes in Massachusetts
ICE - August 15, 2024
ERO Boston arrested Jackson Bento-Pinheiro, a 35-year-old Brazilian national, on charges of attempted rape and assault in Massachusetts. Bento-Pinheiro had entered the U.S. illegally in 2021. Following his arrest for sex offenses, ERO issued a warrant for his arrest and took him into custody for possible deportation.
Casa Grande HSI and Border Patrol Case Leads to 6-Year Prison Sentence
ICE - August 14, 2024
Jesus Alexandro Sanchez Armenta, of Phoenix, was sentenced to 6 years in prison for conspiracy to transport undocumented immigrants. HSI and Border Patrol investigated the case, in which Sanchez Armenta used social media to coordinate the smuggling of migrants through southern Arizona. The sentence highlights the serious consequences of engaging in human smuggling activities.
ERO Baltimore arrests Guatemalan national convicted of rape in Maryland
ICE - August 14, 2024
ERO Baltimore arrested Henry Argueta-Tobar, a Guatemalan national convicted of second-degree rape in Maryland. After his illegal entry into the U.S., Argueta was sentenced to 20 years in prison, with the majority of the sentence suspended. Following his conviction, ERO arrested him and he remains in custody for deportation.
ERO Buffalo arrests Peruvian national wanted in Peru
ICE - August 14, 2024
ERO Buffalo arrested Gianfranco Torres-Navarro, a 38-year-old Peruvian national wanted in Peru. Torres-Navarro illegally entered the U.S. in May 2024 near Rome, Texas. He was arrested by Border Patrol and released on a summons. ERO apprehended him in Endicott, New York, where he now remains in detention while facing deportation proceedings.
ICE Houston Removes Mexican Fugitive Wanted for Homicide
ICE - August 13, 2024
Juan José Valero Cruz, a 40-year-old Mexican national wanted for murder in Mexico, was deported by ICE from Houston to Mexico. Valero Cruz had entered the United States illegally four times and was finally arrested in Splendora, Texas, in June 2024. The deportation operation was made possible through collaboration between ERO Houston, ERO Mexico and the Fugitive Enforcement Security Alliance Task Force. Valero Cruz was turned over to Mexican authorities at the Juarez-Lincoln Bridge in Laredo. This action underscores ICE's commitment to protecting public safety and enforcing U.S. immigration laws.
ERO Boston arrests Colombian national convicted locally for domestic assault
ICE - August 13, 2024
Elkin Arturo Yarce-Munera, a 43-year-old Colombian national, was arrested by ERO Boston after being convicted twice of assault and battery on a family member. Despite immigration detainers, he was released by local authorities on several occasions. Yarce was arrested on July 18, 2024, in possession of false social security and permanent U.S. residency documents. ERO Boston emphasizes the importance of the warrants to public safety by allowing the direct transfer of non-citizens with criminal records into its custody for deportation.
ERO New York arrests Jamaican man who served 28 years for homicide
ICE - August 12, 2024
A Jamaican national, who served 28 years in prison for murder, was arrested by ERO New York in the Bronx on August 6, 2024 for immigration violations. He entered the U.S. legally in 1987, but violated the terms of his admission. He was arrested in Ohio in 1995 and released on parole in December 2023. ERO New York emphasizes its commitment to removing dangerous non-citizen offenders to protect public safety. The individual remains in ERO custody pending deportation proceedings.
ERO Boston removes fugitive wanted by Brazilian authorities for attempted murder
ICE - August 12, 2024
Felipe Augusto De Oliveira, a 23-year-old Brazilian fugitive wanted for attempted murder, was deported by ERO Boston to Brazil on July 26, 2024. De Oliveira had illegally entered the U.S. near Lukeville, Arizona, in March 2023 and was arrested in Lowell, Massachusetts, in May 2024. An immigration judge ordered his deportation on July 1. ERO Boston emphasizes its commitment to protecting public safety by removing non-citizen offenders from New England communities. De Oliveira faces up to 30 years in prison if convicted in Brazil.
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.
