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
Young Hispanic is accepted to 21 U.S. universities: his dream is to become a physician
Univision News - June 22, 2024
Hector Hernandez, a young man of Salvadoran origin, was accepted to more than 20 universities in the U.S. and chose Yale University to study medicine. He is the first member of his family to go to college.
Supreme Court rules against immigrant whose wife says he was denied residency because of his tattoos
Univision News - June 21, 2024
The U.S. Supreme Court ruled against Salvadoran Luis Asencio Cordero, who was denied permanent residency because of his tattoos, according to his wife. At a 6-3 decisionThe court ruled that U.S. citizens do not have a fundamental right to claim that their spouses live with them in the U.S. The decisions of consular officials are not subject to appeal. Justice Sonia Sotomayor, dissenting, upheld the fundamental right to marry. Attorney Sandra Muñoz had challenged the visa denial, claiming it was based on prejudice and unfounded accusations of gang ties.
USCIS Extends Employment Authorization Documents under Temporary Protected Status for El Salvador, Honduras, Nepal, Nicaragua, and Sudan
USCIS - June 18, 2024
USCIS has extended the validity of Employment Authorization Documents (EADs) until March 9, 2025 for Temporary Protected Status (TPS) beneficiaries from El Salvador, Honduras, Nepal, Nicaragua, and Sudan. Beneficiaries must file Form I-821 during the current re-registration period to maintain their benefits. DHS has also extended the re-registration periods: El Salvador until March 9, 2025, Honduras and Nicaragua until July 5, 2025, Nepal until June 24, 2025, and Sudan until April 19, 2025. Although re-enrollment dates vary, DLAs are uniformly extended through March 9, 2025.
Work permits automatically extended for countries with TPS, find out which ones
Univision News - June 20, 2024
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has automatically extended work permits for Temporary Protected Status (TPS) beneficiaries from El Salvador, Honduras, Nepal, Nicaragua and Sudan. The extension is through March 9, 2025. Beneficiaries must file Form I-821 to re-register and maintain their TPS benefits. This measure affects thousands of immigrants who rely on these permits to work legally in the U.S. and provide economic stability for their families.
Process for Promoting Unity and Stability of Families
USCIS - June 18, 2024
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has introduced a new process to allow certain non-citizens married to U.S. citizens to apply for permanent residency without leaving the U.S. Applicants must have continuously resided in the U.S. for at least 10 years and have no disqualifying criminal history. This process seeks to promote family unity and avoid immigration scams. A form must be filed with USCIS with supporting documentation and a fee must be paid. More details on eligibility and the application process will be published in the Federal Register in the near future.
President Biden's Announcement of New Actions to Keep Families Together
The White House - June 18, 2024
President Biden has announced new actions to allow certain spouses and children of U.S. citizens to apply for permanent residency without leaving the U.S. Applicants must have resided in the U.S. for at least 10 years and be legally married to a U.S. citizen. This measure will protect approximately 500,000 spouses and 50,000 non-citizen children. In addition, the visa process will be eased for college graduates, including DACA recipients and other Dreamers, allowing them to receive work visas more quickly if they have a job offer in their field of study.
Fact Sheet: DHS Announces New Process to Promote Family Unity and Stability
Department of Homeland Security - June 18, 2024
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has launched a process to allow certain non-citizens married to U.S. citizens to apply for permanent residency without having to leave the country. Applicants must have resided in the U.S. for at least 10 years and not pose a security threat. This process will benefit approximately 500,000 spouses and 50,000 children of these spouses. In addition, measures will be implemented to facilitate work visas for college graduates, including DACA recipients. These actions reinforce the Biden-Harris Administration's efforts to keep families together and improve the immigration system.
Facilitating the Nonimmigrant Visa Process for College Graduates in the U.S.
U.S. Department of State - June 18, 2024
The Biden-Harris Administration has announced actions to more efficiently facilitate work visas for U.S. college graduates with job offers. This effort will allow graduates to receive work visas more quickly and will clarify existing guidance for consular officers. Ineligibility waiver applications will be evaluated by the Department of Homeland Security and Customs and Border Protection's Office of Admissibility Review. The new guidelines will be issued in the next 30 days and are expected to streamline the process for those who qualify.
Remarks by President Biden at DACA 12th Anniversary Event
The White House - June 18, 2024
President Biden celebrated the 12th anniversary of DACA by highlighting the positive impact of DREAMers in the U.S. and announced new measures to accelerate work visas for college graduates, including DACA recipients. These actions will allow DREAMers to contribute their skills to the economy. In addition, Biden announced a streamlined process for undocumented spouses of U.S. citizens to apply for legal status without leaving the country, benefiting those who have resided in the U.S. for at least 10 years. These measures seek to keep families together and strengthen the country's economy.
Statement by Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro N. Mayorkas on the Biden-Harris Administration's Actions to Keep America's Families Together
Department of Homeland Security - June 18, 2024
Secretary Alejandro N. Mayorkas announced measures to keep U.S. families together and reduce uncertainty for undocumented spouses of U.S. citizens. This process will allow these spouses, who have lived in the U.S. for at least ten years, to apply for permanent residency without leaving the country. The initiative will also facilitate work visas for DACA recipients and other U.S.-educated non-citizens. These actions seek to promote family unity, improve the economy and strengthen public safety, although Mayorkas stressed that only Congress can achieve lasting immigration reform.
Keys to the new immigration policy for undocumented spouses and children of Dreamers
Univision News - June 19, 2024
The Biden administration has introduced a new immigration policy that allows certain undocumented spouses and children of U.S. citizens and DACA recipients to apply for permanent residency without leaving the U.S. Applicants must have resided in the U.S. for at least 10 years. This policy seeks to promote family unity and provide stability for immigrant families. However, not everyone qualifies, and the policy excludes those with criminal records or who do not meet specific criteria. This measure is part of the administration's ongoing efforts to reform the immigration system.
Thousands of immigrants could gain citizenship under Biden's plan, but leaves others with no options
Voice of America - June 19, 2024
President Biden's immigration plan will allow about 500,000 undocumented spouses of U.S. citizens to apply for permanent residency and eventually citizenship without leaving the country, provided they have lived in the U.S. for at least 10 years. However, many are excluded, leading to both criticism and celebration. Claudia Zúñiga and others affected share stories of separation and hope. The announcement also facilitates work visas for DACA recipients and other young immigrants. Advocates praise the measure for its positive impact, while critics call it an amnesty.
Trump's new green card proposal contrasts with his immigration stance
Telemundo News - June 21, 2024
Former President Donald Trump is proposing to grant green cards to college graduates, in contrast to his previous tough immigration stance. This new proposal could have a significant impact on the immigrant community and reflects a change in his previous policies.
Does Trump flip-flop on his anti-immigrant rhetoric? Promises 'green cards' to foreign graduates
Univision News - June 21, 2024
Days after Biden's executive order to facilitate work visas for college graduates, including dreamers, Trump promises residency to foreign graduates if elected. Attorney Ezequiel Hernández analyzes this campaign promise, which contrasts with Trump's previous rhetoric.
USCIS clarifies guidelines on how to adopt a child under the Hague Adoption Convention
USCIS - June 14, 2024
USCIS has updated its Policy Manual to clarify the adoption process under the Hague Convention. The new guidelines explain how a foreign-born child may be eligible for adoption and outline the steps required before adoptive parents obtain legal custody. In addition, requirements for adoption service providers are detailed, including the use of a primary provider and obligations after loss of accreditation. This update reaffirms USCIS' commitment to Hague Convention standards to protect the best interests of children.
The countdown has begun for Maine residents to obtain a REAL ID by May 2025.
TSA - June 20, 2024
Maine residents must obtain a REAL ID-compliant driver's license by May 7, 2025 to board domestic flights and access federal facilities. REAL ID licenses have a star in the upper right-hand corner, indicating that they meet federal security standards. To obtain a REAL ID, residents must visit their local BMV office with documents proving their identity, residency and Social Security number. TSA will begin distributing reminders to travelers who do not already possess a REAL ID to facilitate a smooth transition.
Travel Advisory for the Dominican Republic
U.S. Department of State - June 18, 2024
A level 2 warning has been issued for the Dominican Republic, recommending caution due to high crime, including armed robberies, homicides, and sexual assaults. Tourist areas have better surveillance thanks to a professional tourist police and a 911 emergency system. However, the widespread availability of weapons and the weak criminal justice system contribute to overall crime. Travelers are advised to be vigilant, not to resist robbery, and to avoid displaying signs of wealth. Enrollment in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) is recommended to receive alerts.
U.S. Treasury Secretary Yellen announces sanctions against top leaders of Mexico's "Nueva Familia Michoacana" narcotics cartel and new fentanyl warning
U.S. Department of the Treasury - June 20, 2024
Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen announced sanctions against eight leaders of the "Nueva Familia Michoacana" cartel for trafficking fentanyl, cocaine and methamphetamines into the United States. In addition, FinCEN issued a warning to help financial institutions track illegal fentanyl finances. The cartel is also involved in migrant smuggling and arms trafficking. The move is part of the Biden administration's efforts to combat the opioid crisis and protect American communities.
About World Refugee Day 2024
U.S. Department of State - June 20, 2024
On World Refugee Day, the U.S. reaffirms its commitment to refugees and thanks the communities that welcome them. In FY 2024, the U.S. has welcomed more than 65,000 refugees through the Refugee Admissions Program (USRAP). Refugees contribute significantly to the U.S. economy and society. The Administration has strengthened USRAP and launched the Secure Mobility Initiative to resettle refugees from South and Central America. The U.S. continues to lead the global humanitarian response, working with international partners to support refugees.
U.S. Sanctions Key Members of La Nueva Familia Michoacana
U.S. Department of State - June 20, 2024
The US Treasury Department, in coordination with the Mexican government, imposed sanctions on eight leaders of La Nueva Familia Michoacana, including Rodolfo Maldonado Busto and Josué Ramírez Carrera. This cartel is involved in fentanyl, cocaine and methamphetamine trafficking, and migrant smuggling. The sanctions seek to disrupt their financial operations and are part of the Biden administration's strategy to combat synthetic drugs. Secretary Blinken highlighted the creation of the Global Coalition to Address Synthetic Drug Threats, which includes more than 1,500 participants from 156 countries.
Migrant woman hospitalized for pneumonia dies from head injury sustained in hospital after being released from CBP custody
CBP - June 21, 2024
A migrant woman from Honduras, arrested near Eagle Pass, Texas, was transported to the hospital for pneumonia and later died from a head injury sustained during her treatment. The woman had been released from CBP custody prior to her death. The incident is under investigation by CBP's Office of Professional Responsibility and the Department of Homeland Security's Office of Inspector General. An autopsy is pending to determine the cause and manner of death. This case highlights the challenges and risks faced by migrants in custody.
CBP releases May 2024 monthly update
CBP - June 20, 2024
U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) released operational statistics for May 2024. Since the end of the Title 42 public health order in May 2023, DHS has deported more than 775,000 individuals. In May, the Border Patrol recorded more than 117,900 encounters at the southwest border, a 9% decrease from April. The Biden administration has implemented new rules to restrict asylum eligibility for irregular crossers. In addition, more than 44,500 individuals were processed through the CBP One™ application and significant increases in drug seizures were recorded, highlighted by a 70% increase in fentanyl.
25% Illegal Crossings Drop Following Biden's Executive Action
Telemundo News - June 21, 2024
Illegal border crossings are down 25% following an executive action by President Biden. However, shelters in Mexico are overcrowded and some migrants are opting for more dangerous routes to cross. The situation remains critical on both sides of the border.
Honduran migrant who died after falling from 'La Bestia' and losing his legs is given a final farewell
Univision News - June 21, 2024
Elvin Moreira, a young Honduran man, died after falling from the 'La Bestia' train and losing his legs. His family and friends bid him a final farewell in Honduras. He was unconscious for more than a month in a hospital in Mexico before his death, highlighting the extreme risks faced by migrants.
New LAX port director, Andrew H. Douglas, sworn in during change of command ceremony
CBP - June 20, 2024
Andrew H. Douglas was officially appointed as LAX Port Director during a change of command ceremony at Los Angeles Air Force Base. Douglas will oversee passenger and cargo operations at LAX, as well as other Southern California airports. With extensive experience at CBP, Douglas is committed to maintaining the agency's integrity, professionalism and excellence, with a focus on border security and trade facilitation. In FY 2023, LAX processed more than 10 million international travelers, an increase of 39% over the previous year.
Rescue of migrants in distress by the Tucson Air Branch
CBP - June 18, 2024
Air crews from CBP's Tucson Air Branch rescued five migrants trapped in the rugged terrain of the Peloncillo Mountains. The migrants were suffering from heat exhaustion and other health problems. The rescue operations involved Border Patrol agents and medical teams, highlighting CBP's humanitarian role. These incidents underscore the dangers faced by migrants due to extreme conditions and the negligence of smugglers. CBP continues to urge migrants not to attempt illegal crossings due to the significant risks to their lives.
Undocumented migrant suffers fatal heart attack
CBP - June 17, 2024
On March 12, 2024, an undocumented migrant from Bangladesh suffered a fatal heart attack after being detained near Champlain, New York. Despite receiving immediate medical attention and being transported to the hospital, the migrant died. Border Patrol and emergency services attempted unsuccessfully to resuscitate him. The New York State Police and CBP's Office of Professional Responsibility are investigating the incident. The Department of Homeland Security Office of Inspector General has also been notified.
Justice Department Reaches Agreement with Florida State Attorney's Office to Settle Allegations of Discrimination Against Hispanic Defendants
U.S. Department of Justice - June 20, 2024
The Department of Justice has reached a settlement with the Florida State Attorney's Office for the Second Judicial Circuit resolving allegations of discrimination against Hispanic defendants charged with driving without a valid license. The investigation revealed that less favorable plea agreements were offered to Hispanics compared to other defendants. As part of the agreement, the District Attorney's Office will implement an anti-discrimination policy, train its staff and form a community task force to develop best practices. In addition, they will send letters to those affected offering alternative disposition of their charges.
MS-13 members and associates sentenced for extortion and drug trafficking conspiracies, four murders
U.S. Department of Justice - June 20, 2024
Six MS-13 gang members were sentenced for racketeering conspiracy, narcotics conspiracy, and murder related to the deaths of four men in 2019. These members operated in Virginia and New York, selling cocaine to fund criminal activity and increase their control. The sentences include multiple life sentences for leaders Marvin Menjivar and Melvin Canales Saldana, who ordered the murders to increase their cell's prestige. The operations were part of the Justice Department's strategy to dismantle transnational criminal organizations.
Two men arrested on charges of raping and strangling a 12-year-old girl in Texas
Univision News - June 21, 2024
Houston police arrested Johan Jose Rangel, 21, and Franklin Jose Pena Ramos, 26, for raping and strangling 12-year-old Jocelyn Nungaray. Images of the suspects led to their capture after they were identified by people who knew them.
ICE conducts deportation flights for single adults and family units June 21
ICE - June 21, 2024
Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) conducted deportation flights for single adults and family units to several countries, including Colombia, Cuba, Ecuador, and Mexico. In the last year, DHS has deported more than 742,000 individuals, surpassing any fiscal year since 2011. All non-citizens with no lawful basis to remain in the U.S. are processed and deported in accordance with U.S. laws and international obligations. ICE continues to ensure security and immigration enforcement through commercial and charter flights.
ERO Baltimore arrests Honduran man convicted for drug distribution
ICE - June 20, 2024
ICE's Enforcement and Removal Operation (ERO) in Baltimore arrested Nahun Ventura Ortiz-Isaguriz, a Honduran national convicted of drug distribution in Maryland. Ortiz had been deported twice previously and illegally re-entered the U.S. He was arrested a third time in Ellicott City. Ortiz was sentenced to 20 years in prison on drug trafficking charges, although most of his sentence was suspended. ERO Baltimore prioritizes public safety by arresting and deporting Maryland's most serious non-citizen offenders.
ERO Boston deports Ecuadorian fugitive from the U.S.
ICE - June 20, 2024
ICE's Enforcement and Removal Operation (ERO) in Boston deported Ricardo Andre Barrera-Peleaz, a 30-year-old Ecuadorian wanted in his home country on rape charges. Barrera-Peleaz had entered the U.S. legally in 2022 but violated the terms of his entry. He was arrested in Worcester and ordered deported by an immigration judge in April 2024. On May 21, he was turned over to Ecuadorian authorities. ERO Boston prioritizes public safety by deporting the most serious non-citizen offenders.
ERO Boston deports Dominican fugitive from U.S.
ICE - June 18, 2024
ICE's Enforcement and Removal Operation (ERO) in Boston deported Frank Maiky Baez-Guerrero, a 28-year-old Dominican national wanted for murder in his home country. Baez-Guerrero had entered the U.S. illegally and was arrested in Saugus. In March 2024, an immigration judge ordered his deportation. He was turned over to Dominican authorities on June 10. ERO Boston focuses on arresting and deporting the most dangerous non-citizen offenders to protect public safety.
ERO Baltimore arrests Salvadoran convicted of sexually assaulting minor in Maryland
ICE - June 18, 2024
ICE's Enforcement and Removal Operation (ERO) in Baltimore arrested Luis Portillo-Henriquez, a 39-year-old Salvadoran national convicted of sexually abusing a minor in Baltimore. Portillo had entered the U.S. illegally and was convicted of several crimes, including sexual abuse of a minor. He was arrested in Ellicott City on June 10 and will remain in ERO custody until his deportation proceedings are completed. ERO Baltimore prioritizes public safety by arresting the most serious non-citizen offenders.
Ecuadorian National Dies in ICE Custody
ICE - June 18, 2024
Jhon Javier Benavides-Quintana, a 32-year-old Ecuadorian national, died in ICE custody at the Otero County Processing Center in Chaparral, New Mexico, on June 15. Benavides-Quintana entered the U.S. illegally from Mexico on March 22 and was apprehended by Border Patrol in El Paso, Texas. After processing, he was transferred to the Otero facility. ICE notified Ecuadorian authorities and Benavides-Quintana's family members. The official cause of death is pending an autopsy. ICE assures that all detainees receive full medical care during their stay.
OTHER NEWS
We spoke with Paulina Aguirre, the Spanish voice of 'Google Maps'.
Telemundo News - June 21, 2024
Paulina Aguirre, from Ecuador, was selected among 800 applicants to be the Spanish voice of Google Maps. She recorded 1,000 words per hour for four hours a day for five months. This selection represents a significant achievement in her career and a recognition of her talent.
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.
