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
U.S. increasingly relies on foreign physicians, but their path to immigration is becoming more difficult
Telemundo News - September 26, 2024
The U.S. reliance on foreign physicians has grown, with one in four doctors being international graduates. However, the immigration process has become more complicated, with restrictions on visas such as the H-1B and significant financial challenges. Immigrant doctors face long waits for permanent residency, especially those from India, who can wait up to a decade. Despite their importance in underserved areas, these professionals face exploitation and difficult working conditions.
U.S. Department of Homeland Security Recognizes 173 Employees at Secretary's Awards Ceremony in California
U.S. Department of Homeland Security - September 27, 2024
On September 26, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security held a ceremony in Los Angeles where 173 employees were presented with the Secretary's Award for outstanding contributions. Secretary Alejandro N. Mayorkas highlighted the employees' dedication to protecting the country against threats such as drug trafficking and human exploitation. The awardees represent a variety of agencies, including CBP, CISA, FEMA, ICE and TSA. This year, nine ceremonies will be held across the country, recognizing more than 1,700 employees.
Reminder: SAVE Transaction Fee Increase as of October 1, 2024
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services - September 26, 2024
Effective October 1, 2024, USCIS will implement the second phase of the transaction fee increase for SAVE verification cases. This increase is necessary to fully recover the costs of the program. The fee for federal agencies will be $2.25 per case and for non-federal agencies will be $1.50 per case in FY 2025. SAVE will continue to charge a minimum monthly fee of $25 for each month in which a user agency submits at least one verification case.
USCIS Makes Additional Updates to Policy Guidance on the "Apply to Obtain" Requirement Under the Child Status Protection Act
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services - September 25, 2024
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has updated its policy guidance to clarify the age calculation under the Child Status Protection Act (CSPA) for noncitizens in extraordinary circumstances. The new guidance specifies how age is calculated when an immigrant visa is continuously available for one year. These updates seek to ensure consistent and efficient adjudication in cases where applicants were unable to adjust status due to extraordinary circumstances.
Guidelines on Paying Fees and Completing the Correct Information for Form I-140, Immigrant Alien Worker Petition
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services - September 23, 2024
USCIS has issued guidance to ensure proper payment of fees and complete information when filing Form I-140. Since the implementation of new fees in April 2024, many forms have been rejected due to payment errors and missing information. The guidelines detail the applicable fees by type of petitioner and emphasize the importance of correctly completing key questions on the form to avoid rejections.
USCIS Announces Employment Authorization Procedures for Liberians Protected by Deferred Enforced Departure
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services - September 23, 2024
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services has issued procedures for Liberians protected by Deferred Enforced Departure to apply for Employment Authorization Documents valid until June 30, 2026. This move follows President Joe Biden's memorandum extending protection through that date. Existing EADs have been automatically extended, and eligible Liberians may apply for new travel and employment documents. USCIS is committed to processing these applications fairly and efficiently.
SEVP Response Center Launches New Phone System
U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement - September 23, 2024
On September 23, 2024, the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) Response Center launched a new phone system for domestic and international calls. This updated system offers an interactive voice response (IVR) menu that allows users to choose from various options, such as principal or designated school officials, responsible or alternate officials, F-1 or M-1 students, J-1 exchange visitors, SEVP field representatives or government officials, and other inquiries. The new IVR recognizes specific keypad options and directs callers to an SRC customer service representative based on their choice from the IVR menu. For questions about the CRS phone system upgrade, you can. contact the SRCwhich is available Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. ET, except on federal holidays. ET, except on federal holidays.
U.S. Department of State Celebrates Inauguration of New Consulates in Hermosillo and Nogales
U.S. Department of State - September 27, 2024
The U.S. Department of State celebrated the opening of new consulates in Hermosillo and Nogales, Mexico, as part of an ongoing effort to strengthen the U.S.-Mexico relationship. The new facilities will serve as centers for cooperation in trade, security and tourism, and reflect a commitment to sustainability and cultural ties. The total investment in Hermosillo was $$230 million, while in Nogales it was $$203 million, with a significant impact on the local economy. These consulates are part of a larger project that includes the opening of new consular facilities in Mexico.
Travel Warning for Venezuela
U.S. Department of State - September 24, 2024
The U.S. State Department has issued a level 4 travel warning for Venezuela, advising against travel due to risks of arbitrary detention, terrorism, kidnappings, and arbitrary enforcement of local laws. Poor health infrastructure and lack of consular services exacerbate the situation. U.S. citizens are advised to leave the country and not to rely on U.S. government assistance in case of emergency.
Fact sheet: Fourth ministerial meeting on the Los Angeles Declaration on Migration and Protection
U.S. Department of State - September 26, 2024
At the fourth ministerial meeting of the Los Angeles Declaration, the United States announced more than US$686 million in assistance to support partner countries in managing migration. Emphasis was placed on expanding legal avenues for migration and protection, and strengthening humanitarian law enforcement. Colombia will assume the rotating presidency and host the next meeting in 2025. Signatory countries have implemented more than 300 new measures to manage irregular migration.
Harris toughens border policy to close the gap with Trump's immigration discourse
Univision News - September 28, 2024
Vice President Kamala Harris, Democratic presidential candidate, proposed tightening restrictions on the border with Mexico, keeping the border closed to "illegal" crossings and extending limitations on asylum. Harris seeks to reduce the average weekly number of apprehensions to keep the border closed, a stance that has generated criticism from pro-immigrant activists and Republicans. In addition, Harris promised to introduce immigration reform that includes a path to citizenship for millions of undocumented immigrants, while Republicans criticize her approach and accuse her of contributing to the border crisis.
Harris pledges in Arizona to crack down on illegal crossers
Telemundo News - September 28, 2024
Kamala Harris visited Arizona and announced stricter measures for those who illegally cross into the United States, including harsher penalties for repeat offenders. In addition, she promised the expansion of processing centers and advocated for a path to citizenship for dreamers. These proposals are part of his immigration strategy.
More than 13,000 immigrants convicted of homicide reside in U.S., according to ICE
Telemundo News - September 28, 2024
According to ICE data, more than 13,000 immigrants convicted of homicide reside in the United States. Some of these immigrants entered during previous administrations and are part of a "No Detainee" file. However, a Homeland Security spokesperson clarified that many of them are currently incarcerated.
Donald Trump threatens to eliminate 'humanitarian parole' if elected U.S. president
Univision News - September 27, 2024
Donald Trump announced that, if he wins the presidential elections, he will cancel the CBP One program and the 'humanitarian parole', affecting migrants from Venezuela, Haiti, Cuba and Nicaragua. In addition, he warned about deporting those who benefit from these programs. His proposals have generated controversy in the immigrant community.
'Humanitarian parole': everything you need to know and the risks of deportation if you do not adjust your status
Univision News - September 28, 2024
Immigration experts, such as Jorge Cancino and attorneys Armando Olmedo and Ezequiel Hernández, explained the details of the 'humanitarian parole' program, aimed at migrants from certain countries. They also warned about the risks of deportation for those who do not adjust their immigration status in time, stressing the importance of being well informed and legally advised.
California Governor signs laws in favor of farmworkers: we tell you about it
Univision News - September 26, 2024
California Governor Gavin Newsom signed laws that benefit farm workers, such as access to affordable housing and sick leave in the event of hazardous weather conditions. These new laws aim to improve the quality of life for farm workers in the state.
Department of Justice Secures Language Access Agreement with Alameda County Sheriff's Office in California
U.S. Department of Justice - September 25, 2024
The Department of Justice has reached an agreement with the Alameda County Sheriff's Office to improve language access for persons with limited English proficiency. This agreement addresses concerns about the lack of adequate language services, which could constitute national origin discrimination under Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964. The office will implement language access guidelines, appoint an LEP coordinator, and improve staff training and quality controls. This agreement is part of the Department of Justice's Linguistic Access in Law Enforcement Initiative.
Florida Staffing Company Owners Appear for Tax and Immigration Fraud and Money Laundering
U.S. Department of Justice - September 24, 2024
Two Ukrainian nationals, extradited from Thailand, appeared in federal court in Miami on charges of tax and immigration fraud and money laundering. Oleg Oliynyk and Oleksandr Yurchyk, owners of staffing companies in Florida, allegedly employed unauthorized aliens and defrauded the IRS by failing to withhold taxes. They face charges that could result in prison sentences of up to 20 years. The investigation was conducted by the Department of Homeland Security and the IRS, with support from the Department of Justice's Office of International Affairs.
Florida Man Convicted of Sex Trafficking of Nearly a Dozen Women and Girls
U.S. Department of Justice - September 23, 2024
Shannima Yuantrell Session, of Lake Placid, Florida, was convicted by a federal jury of sex trafficking nearly a dozen women and girls. Between 2011 and 2019, Session used extreme violence and coercion to coerce his victims into commercial sex acts, including sex acts with several migrant farmworkers in paltry romolques or local orange groves. Evidence showed that he manipulated victims' substance abuse problems and used weapons to intimidate them. Session faces a minimum sentence of 15 years in prison and could be sentenced to life in prison. Sentencing is scheduled for December 19.
CBP Officers and Border Patrol Agents Combine Efforts to Apprehend Italian Nationals Who Illegally Entered the United States
U.S. Customs and Border Protection - September 27, 2024
In Buffalo, New York, U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers and Border Patrol agents apprehended two Italian nationals, Raffaele Gambino and Calogero Anceschi, who attempted to illegally enter the country across the International Railroad Bridge. Collaboration between the agencies allowed for rapid communication and apprehension of the individuals, who are in the process of being deported while the investigation continues.
77 Migrants, Including One Fugitive, Discovered in Safe Houses
U.S. Customs and Border Protection - September 26, 2024
In El Paso, Texas, Border Patrol agents and law enforcement partners arrested 77 migrants in two safe houses, including a fugitive wanted for murder in the Dominican Republic. The migrants, from Mexico, Honduras, Ecuador, Guatemala and the Dominican Republic, were found in overcrowded conditions. Two individuals face human smuggling charges. During FY 2024, more than 270 safe houses have been discovered in the El Paso sector.
CBP Reminds the Traveling Public of Changes in Trusted Traveler Program Fees
U.S. Customs and Border Protection - September 26, 2024
Effective October 1, application fees for U.S. Customs and Border Protection's Trusted Traveler Programs will increase to $120. This increase, the first since 2008, will allow for technology upgrades and expansion to more ports. Children under the age of 18 will be exempt from fees if a parent or guardian is already a member or is applying for membership. Affected programs include NEXUS, SENTRI and Global Entry, which facilitate expedited entry into the United States for low-risk travelers.
ERO Dallas arrests Mexican national on charges of aggravated assault on public servant
U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement Enforcement and Removal Operations - September 27, 2024
In Dallas, Texas, Enforcement and Removal Operations officers arrested Santos Victor Hernandez-Garcia, a 60-year-old Mexican national charged with aggravated assault on a public servant. Hernandez, who entered the United States illegally, was previously convicted of first-degree murder in 1991 and harassment in a correctional facility in 2002. ERO Dallas issued an immigration detainer in 2017 and has now taken custody of Hernandez for removal from the country.
ERO Washington, D.C. arrests Venezuelan national on firearms and other charges in Virginia
U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement Enforcement and Removal Operations - September 26, 2024
In Washington, D.C., ERO arrested Yohandri Roger Mosquera-Rosas, a 30-year-old Venezuelan national charged with malicious wounding, reckless handling of a firearm, and other crimes in Virginia. Mosquera, who entered the United States illegally in 2022, was arrested several times by Fairfax County police, but was released without notification to ERO. He was eventually detained by ERO's Special Response Team and remains in custody.
ERO San Antonio deports two Salvadoran fugitives
U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement Enforcement and Removal Operations - September 26, 2024
In San Antonio, Texas, ERO deported Luis Roberto Vasquez Vasquez and Jose Alexander Quijano-Ochoa, two Salvadoran nationals with gang affiliations. Both entered the United States illegally and were apprehended by the Border Patrol. Vasquez was deported on September 18, 2024, while Quijano was deported following his illegal re-entry. The operation was coordinated with ERO El Salvador and the SAFE Program, which facilitates the apprehension and deportation of foreign fugitives.
ERO Boston arrests Mexican national charged with crime related to child sexual abuse material in Massachusetts
U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement Enforcement and Removal Operations - September 25, 2024
In Boston, Massachusetts, ERO arrested Abraham Malpica, a 40-year-old Mexican national charged with disorderly conduct, child pornography, and electronic surveillance of a partially nude person. Malpica, who entered the United States illegally, was detained by Boston police and subsequently transferred to ERO custody. He has been issued a warrant to appear before a Department of Justice immigration judge.
ERO Boston arrests Salvadoran gang member accused of assault and battery in Nantucket
U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement Enforcement and Removal Operations - September 25, 2024
In Nantucket, Massachusetts, ERO arrested Angel Gabriel Deras-Mejia, a documented MS-13 gang member, on charges of disorderly conduct and two counts of assault and battery on a household member. Deras-Mejia entered the United States illegally and poses a significant threat to the Nantucket community. He remains in ERO custody pending removal proceedings.
ERO Boston arrests Guatemalan national accused of sex crime against Massachusetts resident
U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement Enforcement and Removal Operations - September 24, 2024
In Nantucket, Massachusetts, ERO arrested Felix Alberto Perez-Gomez, a 41-year-old Guatemalan national charged with indecent assault and battery on a person 14 years of age or older. Perez, who had previously been deported after convictions for reckless driving, illegally re-entered the United States. He was arrested by ERO and remains in custody while removal proceedings are processed.
ERO Boston arrests Dominican citizen convicted of crime related to child sex abuse material in Massachusetts
U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement Enforcement and Removal Operations - September 23, 2024
In Boston, Massachusetts, ERO arrested Enrique Alberto Ortiz-Brito, a 25-year-old Dominican national convicted of possession of child sexual abuse material. Ortiz, who had been lawfully admitted to the United States in 2016, violated the terms of his admission. He was arrested by Boston police and subsequently transferred to ERO custody. Ortiz remains in custody while awaiting his hearing before a Department of Justice immigration judge.
OTHER NEWS
Guinness World Record for the world's largest pupusa was achieved in Washington DC
Voice of America - September 29, 2024
During the annual "Fiesta DC" festival in Washington, more than 40 people made the world's largest pupusa, achieving a new Guinness World Record. This event was held as part of the celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month, highlighting the cultural and gastronomic richness of the Salvadoran community.
IMPORTANT INFORMATION
These summaries provide a quick overview of the most important topics. 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.