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
Salvadoran farmers' sacrifice empowered young woman to earn doctorate degree in law
Los Angeles Times en Español - February 26, 2024
Jessenia Núñez, daughter of Salvadoran immigrants and recent graduate of UC Berkeley School of Law, was sworn in as a lawyer in Fresno, California. Her trajectory is marked by the efforts of her parents, farmers who motivated her to excel. Núñez, who was born in Blythe, California, and grew up among agricultural fields, became the first in her family to attend college and now stands as an example of success for the community of Mendota, known as "Little El Salvador". Her story highlights the importance of family support and education as a means to overcome socioeconomic barriers and achieve career goals.
Young Nicaraguan girl wins U.S. robotics awards without mastering English
CNN in English - February 26, 2024
Vivian Salomé Abea, a young student from Nicaragua with only six months in the United States and no English, has managed to stand out and receive recognition in robotics tournaments in Southern California. Her determination and skills have won the admiration of her classmates and teachers, demonstrating that linguistic obstacles can be overcome with perseverance and passion for science.
Two Latina sisters used to cook at home for a living. Now they have their restaurant
Telemundo News - February 26, 2024
Lisa and Nicole Guzman, two Latina sisters who started out cooking at home to make ends meet, now own "Las Cipotas", a successful restaurant. They took advantage of a business opportunity that presented itself unexpectedly and, despite initial doubts, decided to take a chance. Their establishment is the result of the fusion of two culinary cultures, which has contributed significantly to their success.
Nicaraguan journalist avoids deportation from the U.S.
Havana Times - February 25, 2024
Nicaraguan journalist Joselin Montes avoided deportation in the United States after demonstrating a "reasonable fear" of persecution if she returned to Nicaragua. Montes, who faced false accusations by Daniel Ortega's regime, recounted her journey from Nicaragua to the United States, via Panama and Colombia, in search of asylum. His case highlights the difficulties migrants face in the U.S. immigration system and the importance of having solid evidence to support asylum claims. Montes plans to study English and become a paralegal to help other migrants in detention.
A plan to make it easier for immigrants to achieve citizenship (podcast)
El Diario NY - February 26, 2024
The Congressional Hispanic Caucus (CHC) is proposing that USCIS assume responsibility for translating and certifying documents necessary for naturalization. Led by Congressman Robert Garcia, the lawmakers sent a letter to the head of USCIS, suggesting the use of internal agency resources to improve the naturalization process. This approach seeks to eliminate burdens on applicants and optimize the use of congressional staff time currently dedicated to these tasks. The initiative, which is personal to Garcia, a Peruvian immigrant, is under review by USCIS.
Reminder: Inflation adjustment of priority processing rates effective today
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services - February 26, 2024
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has implemented new inflation-adjusted filing fees, effective today, increasing the filing fee for Form I-907 for Priority Processing. This change, announced in a final rule on December 28, 2023, responds to the Department of Homeland Security's (DHS) authority to adjust such fees every two years, reflecting cumulative inflation from June 2021 through June 2023. The adjustments resulted in priority processing fee increases to $1,685, $1,965, and $2,805, depending on the form and category. USCIS will reject any Form I-907s submitted with the incorrect fee beginning February 26, 2024. The additional revenue will be used to improve application processing and fund USCIS adjudication and naturalization services.
New fees for immigration procedures come into force
Telemundo News - February 26, 2024
Effective February 26, 2024, new fees for U.S. immigration processing have been implemented, including an increase in the cost of Form I-907 from $185 to $305. Total fees for immigration processing will range from $1,685 to $2,805. This adjustment in fees will affect those seeking to expedite their immigration processes, marking a significant change in immigration policy and applicants' finances.
USCIS 2024 Final Fee Rule: FAQ
Immigration Today - February 1, 2024
USCIS has published a final rule to adjust certain application fees for immigration and naturalization benefits, effective April 1, 2024. This change, the first since 2016, seeks to recover the agency's operating costs and support timely processing of applications. USCIS funding comes primarily from filing fees, with 96% of its budget based on this revenue. The final rule includes fee increases, expansions in fee waivers for humanitarian cases and adoptions, and updates in payment methods. Unlike the initial proposal, the final rule reduces the overall fee increase and expands fee waivers, offering discounts for online filings and keeping fees low for naturalization and adoption applications. This adjustment seeks to ease the financial burden on applicants and maintain efficiency in case processing.
ABA report criticizes widespread electronic monitoring of migrants
American Bar Association - February 23, 2024
The American Bar Association has published a critical report on extensive electronic monitoring of migrants by the federal government, recommending that this program be significantly scaled back. The report, titled "Electronic Migrant Monitoring: Punitive Not Prudent," argues that monitoring acts as a de facto detention, imposing significant financial costs on taxpayers and considerable human harm on participants and their families. It argues that most migrants do not pose a flight risk or danger to the community that would justify detention or electronic monitoring. It further criticizes the punitive nature of monitoring, suggesting that it violates constitutional guarantees of liberty and due process and contravenes ABA policies that advocate for limits on immigration detention and less invasive alternatives.
Report on the Afro-Latino Heritage Day Event
The White House - February 26, 2024
The White House held the first in-person African-Latino Heritage Day Event as part of this year's Black History Month, highlighting the Biden-Harris Administration's commitment to Black and Latino communities and racial diversity. The event featured a panel on Black Latinidad in the Arts and a fireside chat with Sunny Hostin and Gina Torres, highlighting the importance of Afro-Latino representation in the arts and entertainment industry. Participants enjoyed special performances by Mauro Castillo and Cimafunk, with the presence of key Administration figures such as Stephen Benjamin and Dr. Maria Jackson, emphasizing the recognition of Afro-Latino contributions in various artistic sectors.
ERO Philadelphia expels foreign fugitive wanted for drug trafficking to Brazil
ICE - February 26, 2024
ICE removed Miramar Martins De Brito, a Brazilian national and fugitive wanted for drug trafficking in Brazil, demonstrating ERO Philadelphia's commitment to U.S. public safety. Martins was arrested near El Paso, Texas, in 2019, and after a process that included his arrest in New Jersey and transfer to ERO Philadelphia, he was finally removed to Brazil on February 23. This case highlights the fight against drug trafficking and the effort to remove dangerous criminals, relying on the cooperation between different ERO offices and the Brazilian justice system.
ERO Baltimore arrests Honduran national convicted of robbery in Maryland
ICE - February 26, 2024
ERO Baltimore arrested a 28-year-old Honduran national previously convicted of robbery in Rockville, Maryland in 2023. The arrest underscores ERO Baltimore's determination to maintain public safety and the integrity of U.S. immigration laws. The individual, who had entered the United States illegally, was apprehended in Gaithersburg and will remain in ERO custody pending the outcome of his removal proceedings. This case highlights the importance of targeted arrests and interagency collaboration for community safety.
ERO Philadelphia removes wanted foreign fugitive to complete incarceration in Colombia
ICE - February 26, 2024
ERO Philadelphia extradited Miguel Angel Hernandez Moreno, a Colombian national and fugitive wanted by authorities in Colombia to complete a conviction for simple homicide with aggravating factors. Initially captured in New Jersey for terroristic threats and assault, his record includes a 2011 conviction in Colombia and a 2017 prison escape. His arrest and extradition underscore ERO's efforts to remove individuals who compromise public safety and violate U.S. immigration laws.
ERO Seattle arrests 12 non-citizens with sex crime convictions in nationwide effort
ICE - February 26, 2024
ERO Seattle arrested 12 non-citizens with sex offense convictions as part of a nationwide enforcement effort. This operation highlights ERO's commitment to public safety by identifying and removing individuals convicted of serious crimes, including child sexual exploitation and sexual assault. The operation reflects the efficient use of limited resources to keep communities in Alaska, Washington and Oregon safe.
ERO New Orleans focuses on operation targeting convicted sex offenders
ICE - February 26, 2024
ERO New Orleans conducted a targeted operation against six undocumented non-citizen sex offenders, reaffirming its commitment to community safety. This operation, part of a nationwide effort, underscores ERO's dedication to arresting and removing those who have committed sex crimes, especially against vulnerable members of the population. The individuals arrested, from El Salvador, Mexico, Cuba and Egypt, have been convicted of crimes including child sexual exploitation and sexual assault, demonstrating ERO's focus on protecting communities and enforcing immigration laws.
ERO Boston arrests Mexican national convicted of assault and battery with a dangerous weapon
ICE - February 26, 2024
ERO Boston arrested a Mexican national previously convicted of assault and battery with a dangerous weapon, reaffirming its commitment to public safety. The individual, who illegally entered the U.S. in 2018, was convicted in 2022. Despite a prior arrest and immigration warrant, he was released on parole, subsequently violating it. This arrest underscores ERO's dedication to protecting communities, facing legal and operational challenges to ensure the removal of dangerous individuals.
Senegalese national in ICE custody dies in hospital
ICE - February 26, 2024
A Senegalese national in ICE custody died at CHRISTUS St. Frances Cabrini Hospital in Alexandria, Louisiana, on Feb. 23. Ousmane Ba, 33, entered the U.S. without inspection and was detained by Border Patrol, subsequently transferred to the custody of ERO New Orleans. Ba had been hospitalized since January 30, and an autopsy is pending to determine the official cause of his death. ICE has notified the Senegalese consulate and Ba's family members, reaffirming its commitment to comprehensive medical care for all detainees.
ICE arrests 19 noncitizens with sex crime convictions in domestic effort
ICE - February 26, 2024
ICE arrested 19 non-citizens with sex offense convictions in Colorado as part of a nationwide enforcement effort. This operation highlights ICE's commitment to public safety, using an intelligence-driven enforcement model to identify and arrest individuals who have committed serious crimes, ensuring the protection of communities across the United States. Those arrested include nationals from Mexico, the United Kingdom and Guatemala, among others, convicted of a variety of sex crimes.
ERO Los Angeles arrests 36 non-citizens with sex crime convictions
ICE - February 26, 2024
ERO Los Angeles arrested 36 non-citizens with sex crime convictions during a nationwide enforcement effort. This operation reflects ERO's dedication to protecting communities from sexual predators, ensuring that these threats can no longer target innocent people or children. The arrestees, including citizens of Guatemala and Mexico, have been convicted of a number of sex crimes, demonstrating the efficient use of limited resources to promote public safety throughout the United States.
52% of Americans support border wall, poll finds
El Tiempo Latino - February 26, 2024
A recent Monmouth University poll reveals that 53% of Americans support the construction of a U.S.-Mexico border wall, reflecting a shift in public opinion. This support has grown in recent years, especially among Republicans and independents, while it has declined among Democrats. Illegal immigration emerges as a top concern for many voters, driving support for stricter border policies. The poll also highlights that a majority prefer that asylum seekers wait in Mexico while their cases are processed, underscoring the complexity and division of opinion surrounding U.S. immigration policy.
Cities run out of budget to address immigration crisis in the U.S.
El Tiempo Latino - February 26, 2024
U.S. cities face unprecedented challenges due to the massive influx of immigrants, which has led to significant pressure on local budgets for immigration care. Denver, Chicago, and New York, in particular, have had to adjust their finances and resources to handle the influx of immigrants transported from Texas. Despite repeated calls at the federal level for greater support, the lack of work permits for newly arrived immigrants exacerbates the situation, limiting their ability to contribute economically. This scenario highlights the urgency of comprehensive immigration reform that addresses both the reception of immigrants and their integration into U.S. society.
Lawyers urge government to "manage" migration at the border instead of "deporting" it
Univision - February 26, 2024
The American Immigration Lawyers Association (AILA) urges President Biden to securely and humanely manage migration at the U.S. southern border, emphasizing the need for a fair process for those fleeing their countries due to violence, poverty, and climate change. AILA says Congress must approve essential funding to address the immigration crisis and reverse removal policies that, they argue, have not improved security and order at the border. AILA's letter to Biden highlights previous actions taken by his administration and criticizes Congress' lack of resources to effectively address immigration challenges, including the failure of a bipartisan immigration plan that sought to allocate $$20.3 billion to improve the border situation.
Three Hispanic children abandoned by coyotes at the border: in tears they ask to see their mother
Univision News - February 26, 2024
Adelfa Jiménez is living a harrowing search for her three children, ages 9, 6 and 3, who were abandoned by coyotes at the Arizona border after trying to join her in the United States. The family, desperate to be reunited, received help from the Border Patrol thanks to the intervention of a Univision team, highlighting the dangerous journey faced by migrant minors and the humanitarian crisis at the border.
Politicians react to Biden's visit to the border
Telemundo News - February 26, 2024
President Biden's visit to the border has provoked diverse reactions among local politicians, such as Javier Villalobos, mayor of McAllen, who expressed his desire for Biden to understand the difficulties facing the region. Villalobos lamented that the visit did not take place sooner, reflecting local tension and expectations about the current administration's immigration policies and border management.
Biden travels to Texas border to lobby Congress for more resources for migrant surveillance and processing
La Opinión - February 26, 2024
President Joe Biden will visit Brownsville, Texas, on February 28, with the goal of pressuring Congress to pass a bipartisan immigration bill. During his visit, Biden will meet with Border Patrol agents and local authorities to discuss the need for more funding for border security and migrant processing. The White House emphasizes the urgency of this agreement, which includes resources to combat drug trafficking and improve the processing of asylum applications. The plan, which faces Republican opposition, proposes $$20 billion for the border, including fentanyl detection technology and expedited employment authorization for certain immigrants.
Biden and Trump's same-day trip confirms that the border will be critical in the election
Telemundo News - February 26, 2024
A poll reveals that 57% of respondents trust Trump more to ensure border security, while 48% believe Biden respects migrants' rights more. In a strategic move, Biden and Trump will visit the border on the same day, Biden in Brownsville and Trump in Eagle Pass, highlighting the importance of border policy in the upcoming U.S. presidential election.
Migrants linked to drug cartels, child sex assault cases arrested in Texas
La Opinión - February 26, 2024
The U.S. Border Patrol in Texas has arrested migrants with criminal records, including ties to drug cartels and convictions for child sexual assault. More than a dozen migrants were detained in the El Paso Sector after illegally entering the country. The background checks revealed sex offenders, drug traffickers, and connections to gangs or cartels such as La Linea, Cartel de Jalisco Nueva Generación, and MS-13. Since October, the Border Patrol has made 6,400 arrests of migrants with violent felony convictions. Border Patrol Chief Jason Owens noted the arrest of 178 individuals with gang affiliations in FY2024.
New cases of violence at the hands of migrants in New York City
Voice of America - February 26, 2024
New York City is facing an increase in violent incidents involving migrants. A controversial bail law adds to police challenges in keeping the metropolis safe. This report highlights the complexity of addressing violence and citizen security in a context of intense discussions on immigration and criminal justice policies.
Chilling details released after Georgia student allegedly murdered by Venezuelan immigrant
El Diario NY - February 27, 2024
The murder of Laken Riley, a 22-year-old nursing student on the University of Georgia campus, allegedly at the hands of Venezuelan immigrant Jose Ibarra, has shocked the community. According to recent affidavits, Ibarra used an object to commit the crime, disfiguring Riley's skull and dragging her to a secluded area. Ibarra, who entered the U.S. irregularly, faces multiple charges, including murder and concealing the death of another person. The detailed circumstances of the murder, including the object used, have not yet been specified. Ibarra had previously been arrested in New York for assaulting a minor and a driver's license violation, but was released before ICE could intervene. Riley's death has generated a wave of outrage, highlighted by a vigil organized in his memory by students and faculty at the University of Georgia.
Sheriff blames immigration crisis for Laken Riley murder by undocumented Hispanic man
El Diario NY - February 26, 2024
Sheriffs in the US link the migration crisis to the murder of Laken Riley in Georgia, pointing the finger at José Antonio Ibarra, a Venezuelan irregular migrant. They argue that the lack of control at the border allows the entry of individuals with criminal records, exacerbating insecurity. They criticize the delay in judicial appointments for immigrants and the need for more police resources. This case has triggered hateful and stigmatizing comments towards Latino students in Georgia, despite calls for tolerance and against racism and xenophobia.
Georgia governor demands border security from Biden following assassination
Telemundo News - February 26, 2024
The murder of Laken Riley, a University of Georgia student, has sparked a national controversy over border security in the United States. The main suspect in the crime is an illegal immigrant, which has led Georgia's governor to demand stricter border measures from President Biden. This case has renewed the political debate over immigration and border security policies.
Wife of Venezuelan suspected of murdering student in Georgia spoke: "He was not aggressive".
El Diario NY - February 26, 2024
Layling Franco, wife of José Antonio Ibarra, a suspect in the murder of Laken Riley in Georgia, described her husband as a calm man, contradicting the image of an aggressor that emerges from the charges against him. Franco, who is also Venezuelan, recounted her irregular arrival in the U.S. with Ibarra and her son, and her life before her husband's arrest. Despite the problems as a couple, she said there was never any physical violence between them. Franco remains hopeful that this is a misunderstanding, although she acknowledges that, if the accusations are true, Ibarra must face the consequences.
USA: Brother of man accused of killing nursing student had false immigration papers
Los Angeles Times en Español - February 24, 2024
Diego Ibarra, brother of the accused killer of Laken Hope Riley in Georgia, was arrested for presenting a false green card to police. The brothers, originally from Venezuela, face separate charges: Jose Ibarra for Riley's murder and Diego for use of forged immigration documents. Diego, who was prosecuted for expedited removal after claiming credible fear of returning to Venezuela, has previously been detained in Athens, Georgia, for various crimes. This case highlights the complexity of immigration situations and the associated legal repercussions.
Chaos at California-Mexico border: migrants left adrift after shelter closure
El Diario NY - February 26, 2024
Hundreds of asylum seekers were left without housing at the California-Mexico border after the only shelter receiving them was closed due to lack of funding. The San Diego Welcome Center, which consumed $6 million in federal resources, was essential to house and orient migrants recently released by immigration authorities. The situation has left approximately 500 migrants a day in uncertainty, without a place to stay or adequate guidance on how to continue their asylum proceedings or move within the country. The Episcopal Church has stepped in, providing transportation to the airport for those with final destinations outside of California, but many continue to face the challenge of having no resources or direction in a foreign country.
Texas attorney general seeks to close migrant shelter in El Paso
Voice of America - February 26, 2024
In Texas, Attorney General Ken Paxton has filed a lawsuit against a migrant shelter in El Paso, accusing it of "facilitating illegal immigration". This legal action seeks the closure of the shelter, highlighting the tensions in U.S. immigration policies and Texas' approach to immigration. This case underscores the challenges and controversies surrounding the reception and treatment of migrants at the southern border.
Donald Trump's immigration proposals include mass deportations and giant detention centers
El Diario NY - February 26, 2024
Donald Trump, in his presidential election campaign, promises to implement a strict immigration policy, including the "largest deportation operation" in U.S. history. He proposes mass deportations with the help of the National Guard and the construction of large detention centers for irregular migrants. Trump cites the 1954 "Operation Wetback" as a model and plans to invoke historic laws to facilitate these actions. His policies could also include the resumption of family separation at the border. The legality and humanity of these proposals have been questioned, while the Biden campaign calls them racist and ineffective.
These migrants were near Key West when they were intercepted. They were repatriated
El Nuevo Herald - February 26, 2024
The U.S. Coast Guard repatriated 25 migrants to Cuba after intercepting their boat near Key West, Florida. The migrants, spotted by a Good Samaritan, received basic assistance aboard a Coast Guard vessel prior to their repatriation. This event underscores the continued vigilance of U.S. maritime borders against illegal immigrant travel, reaffirming the authorities' commitment to preventing unsafe crossings by sea. The operation reflects U.S. policy to detain and return undocumented migrants, part of a broader effort to control irregular immigration.
OTHER NEWS
Maduro said migrants would return to Venezuela within a year if U.S. lifts sanctions
El Diario NY - February 26, 2024
Nicolás Maduro assures that the return of Venezuelan migrants is imminent if the United States lifts the economic sanctions imposed on Venezuela. In his weekly program, Maduro criticized the demonization of the Venezuelan diaspora and directly linked migration to the impact of sanctions on the national economy. According to him, the elimination of these restrictions would bring investment and prosperity, encouraging the return of Venezuelans abroad. Maduro also accused U.S. media and entities of fostering a negative image of Venezuelan migrants, while promising a prosperous future for Venezuela.
Mexico's southern border suffers from the worsening exodus from Venezuela
El Diario NY - February 25, 2024
Mexico's southern border has experienced a significant increase in the arrival of Venezuelan migrants, with an increase of 131.8% in 2023, totaling almost 223,000 people. This figure represents more than a quarter of the total number of undocumented migrants detected by the Mexican government. The migration crisis has become particularly evident in Tapachula, where it is estimated that the actual number of Venezuelan migrants could exceed 300,000. Migrants face challenges such as organized crime violence and discrimination as they seek better opportunities away from the economic and political crisis in their country. The situation is complicated by upcoming elections in Venezuela and limited reception measures by the Mexican government.
More than 68,000 migrants have crossed the Darien jungle so far this year; 22,000 more than in 2023
El Diario NY - February 25, 2024
So far in 2024, more than 68,400 migrants have crossed the dangerous Darien jungle, marking a significant increase over the previous year. This migratory flow, mostly of Venezuelans, represents a considerable challenge for both Panama and the migrants themselves, facing extreme dangers on their journey to North America. Panamanian authorities, in response, have intensified their efforts to control this transit, reinforcing border security and warning about the risks of these illegal journeys. Despite the deportations of migrants with criminal records, the number continues to rise, evidencing the desperation of many to reach better living conditions.
Tijuana artists re-paint border fence
Telemundo News - February 26, 2024
Artists in Tijuana came together to paint the border wall as a form of protest against the immigration crisis and the recent renovation of the wall. Through their art, they seek to capture the stories and pain of migrants who wish this wall did not exist, turning a symbol of division into an expression of culture and resistance.
U.S. and Guatemala maintain excellent relations: State Department official
Voice of America - February 26, 2024
During a recent visit to Guatemala, the State Department's Deputy Assistant Secretary for Western Hemisphere Affairs, Eric Jacobstein, highlighted the strong relations between the United States and the new Guatemalan government of Bernardo Arevalo. The visit included a meeting with imprisoned journalist and former editor of ElPeriodico, José Rubén Zamora, reflecting the U.S. commitment to press freedom and democracy in the region. This event underscores the importance of Guatemala in U.S. foreign policy and support for democratic values.
IMPORTANT INFORMATION
Although these summaries are intended to be accurate, it is essential 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.
