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
H-1B FY 2025 Initial Registration Period Announced by USCIS
USCIS - March 6, 2024
The initial filing period for fiscal year 2025 H-1B petitions will begin on March 6, 2024, at noon Eastern Time, extending through March 22, 2024. Prospective applicants and their representatives must use a USCIS online account to register each beneficiary electronically and pay the associated registration fee of $10 per beneficiary. This process is part of the final rule published on February 2, 2024, which introduces a beneficiary-focused selection process, selecting records by single beneficiary to ensure fairness. In addition, applicants will be required to provide valid passport or travel document information that the beneficiary intends to use to enter the U.S., reinforcing the integrity of the process. USCIS also announces the acceptance of online Form I-129 and I-907 filings for selected petitions beginning April 1, improving efficiency and collaboration with advanced organizational accounts.
H-1B registration period for fiscal year 2025 and account reminders
USCIS - February 28, 2024
USCIS announced the launch of organizational accounts to facilitate preparation and collaboration on H-1B registrations and Forms I-907, essential to participate in the H-1B e-Registration Process beginning March 2024. This system seeks to address previous technical issues and improve the efficiency of the application process. The registration period for FY 2025 H-1B visas will begin on March 6 and end on March 22, 2024, requiring passport information for each beneficiary to ensure orderly and lawful immigration. In addition, USCIS will implement electronic filing of Forms I-129 and I-907 for H-1B petitions, marking an important step toward digitizing and streamlining the immigration process.
USCIS Announces Enhanced Integrity Measures for H-1B Program
USCIS - January 30, 2024
The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has implemented a final rule to strengthen the integrity of the H-1B registration process, aimed at minimizing fraud and ensuring equal opportunity for all applicants. This adjustment involves a significant change in the selection method, which will now focus on the individual beneficiary, avoiding multiple registrations by an employer for the same beneficiary. Valid passport information will be required to be submitted for each beneficiary during initial registration. In addition, mechanisms are established to deny or revoke H-1B petitions based on fraudulent registrations or false statements. With this measure, USCIS seeks to make H-1B selections more equitable and reduce the potential for malicious intervention in the system by promoting a fully electronic process from registration to final decision. This enhanced approach reflects USCIS' commitment to improve and streamline its processes, ensuring fair and transparent treatment for all H-1B program participants.
The whole family together and change of schedule: new keys to CBP One program at the southern border
Univision - March 5, 2024
The CBP One™ program introduces significant changes as of March 4 to streamline the immigration process to the U.S. It now allows for the joint registration of families or traveling companions and establishes new appointment times, from 12 p.m. to 11:59 p.m. (Eastern Time), exclusively for non-citizens from central and northern Mexico. These modifications seek to improve efficiency and security in the processing of migrants, eliminating the influence of smugglers and adapting practices to current smuggling challenges.
CBP One mobile application updated: groups and schedules limited
Voice of America - March 5, 2024
The U.S. government has implemented updates to the CBP One application used to schedule immigration appointments at designated border ports. The changes aim to improve functionality and protect the application against fraud by limiting groups and times available for appointments.
U.S. announces improvements in the process of appointments requested through CBP One
Voice of America - March 5, 2024
The U.S. Department of Homeland Security, represented by Deputy Assistant Secretary for Communications Luis Miranda, has announced significant changes to the CBP One application. These enhancements are designed to streamline the asylum application process by providing a clear step-by-step and additional steps to consider when making an appointment. This adjustment is intended to ease the procedure for applicants and ensure the integrity of the immigration process.
Supreme Court freezes Texas law that allows police to arrest immigrants
Voice of America - March 5, 2024
The U.S. Supreme Court has temporarily frozen the implementation of a controversial immigration law in Texas, scheduled for March 10. This law would have allowed state authorities to detain individuals suspected of having entered the country irregularly, which has raised debates about its constitutionality and effectiveness.
Why it is misleading that Biden flew in 300,000 undocumented migrants
Telemundo News - March 5, 2024
Telemundo News debunks the claim that President Biden has airlifted 300,000 undocumented migrants, classifying it as misleading. This conclusion is based on the use of the CBP One application, by which migrants comply with federal requirements to enter the country, disproving the narrative of irregular entry promoted by certain sources.
Fentanyl detection scanners not used at the border
El Tiempo Latino - March 5, 2024
Despite CBP investments in advanced technology to stem the flow of fentanyl, lack of Congressional funding has prevented the use of non-intrusive inspection (NII) systems. These systems, essential for screening vehicles at the southern border, remain unused, requiring $300 million to install. Legislative inaction underscores the challenges in modernizing border security and highlights how financial stagnation hampers the fight against drug trafficking, with fentanyl primarily concealed in personal vehicles.
Colombian migrant on terrorist watch list arrested in Eagle Pass
La Opinión - March 5, 2024
Border Patrol agents in Eagle Pass, Texas, arrested Carlos Obed Yépez Bedoya, a 40-year-old Colombian national, after identifying him on the terrorist watch list on February 21. This arrest highlights the importance of border security operations amidst the debate over immigration management and national security. The arrest was made as part of Operation Lone Star, emphasizing the collaboration between the Texas Department of Public Safety and the Border Patrol to secure the border. The case of Yépez Bedoya, marked as a member of a terrorist group, reflects the complexities of border enforcement and concerns about potential threats crossing into the United States.
At least 10 migrants injured after falling from border fence between Tijuana and San Diego
Univision News - March 5, 2024
In an incident at the Tijuana-San Diego border, at least 10 migrants were injured when they slipped and fell while attempting to climb down the border fence. This group was part of more than 100 people who attempted to scale the 30-foot barrier over the weekend, prompting San Diego authorities to provide emergency care.
Former Border Patrol chief says government has been wrong on immigration issue
La Opinión - March 5, 2024
Raul Ortiz, former head of the Border Patrol, criticizes the current U.S. administration's handling of immigration policy, pointing to a lack of communication and strategy with the White House. During his leadership, Ortiz did not hold conversations with President Joe Biden or Vice President Kamala Harris about the handling of the immigration phenomenon. In an interview with "60 Minutes," he expressed his concern about the political use of the Border Patrol and the National Guard, noting that the federal government's actions are not sufficient to address the security challenges at the border, which benefits criminal organizations.
Border Patrol chief reveals requests to President Biden during Texas visit
Univision News - March 5, 2024
Border Patrol Chief Jason Owens shared details of his first meeting with a U.S. president, taking advantage of Joe Biden's visit to Texas to request a fixed budget for Border Patrol operations, seeking to avoid reliance on temporary resolutions for funding.
Has the immigration debate been lost on Democrats to talk only about the border? We analyze it
Univision News - March 5, 2024
Vanessa Cárdenas and Emily Benavides discuss the direction of the immigration debate on the campaign trail, focusing on the Republican perception of the border as the biggest problem for many Americans, and Cárdenas' description of the Republican party as cruel, radical and ineffective.
Arizona governor vetoes bill allowing police to detain irregular migrants
El Diario NY - March 5, 2024
Arizona Governor Katie Hobbs vetoed SB 1231, known as the "Arizona Invasion Act," which would have authorized state and local police to detain individuals suspected of illegally entering the U.S. Hobbs argued that the law did not secure the border, was detrimental to communities and businesses, and placed a burden on the judicial and law enforcement systems. In addition, he highlighted constitutional concerns and the risk of costly litigation. The ACLU of Arizona praised the veto, calling the bill an extremely anti-immigrant and unconstitutional measure that would have set the state back to divisive policies.
Arizona governor vetoes anti-immigrant bill
Telemundo News - March 5, 2024
Arizona Governor Katie Hobbs vetoed a bill considered anti-immigrant that would have given state authorities the ability to arrest people for entering the country irregularly. Hobbs argued that the bill presented constitutional concerns, demonstrating her commitment to defending civil rights and questioning the effectiveness of the proposed measures.
What you should know about Georgia's bill to allow police to arrest undocumented immigrants
Associated Press/Noticias Telemundo - March 5, 2024
In Georgia, a bill that would allow police to detain undocumented immigrants has generated controversy following its passage in the House of Representatives. The measure, prompted by a tragic event at the University of Georgia, would force police departments to assist in identifying and detaining immigrants for deportation. Critics, including Latino and civil rights organizations, argue that the law would infringe on constitutional liberties, perpetuate harmful stereotypes and deepen distrust of police in immigrant communities. Advocates, on the other hand, argue that it is a necessary step to enforce state and federal laws, making public safety a priority.
U.S. city will stop receiving more undocumented migrants: "We will not accept them".
El Diario NY - March 5, 2024
Monument, Colorado, has declared itself a non-sanctuary city, announcing that it will no longer receive undocumented migrants. The decision, made unanimously by the City Council, seeks to prevent a massive influx of immigrants from Denver, citing fiscal concerns and lack of resources. Mayor Mitch LaKind stressed the need to collaborate with federal agencies and urge the Biden administration to strengthen border and deportation policies. The move has sparked discussions about cities' responsibilities in managing immigration and the challenges facing jurisdictions with sanctuary policies.
Venezuelan immigrant faces charges for shooting in La Villita neighborhood
La Raza - March 5, 2024
Adelvis Carmona Rodriguez, a 29-year-old Venezuelan immigrant, has been indicted in Chicago for his involvement in a shooting in La Villita, evidencing alleged ties to organized crime. Carmona Rodriguez faces charges of attempted murder, aggravated assault with a weapon and possession of a weapon. The victim, a 27-year-old woman, is in critical condition. This case highlights the complex intersections between immigration, crime and public safety, generating debate about immigration policy and community safety.
Venezuelan military admits guilt in money laundering scheme
El Nuevo Herald - March 4, 2024
A retired major of the Venezuelan National Guard, Nepmar Jesús Escalona Enríquez, pleaded guilty in Miami to participating in a money laundering scheme linked to bribes to Venezuelan officials to gain access to dollars at preferential rates. A resident of Fort Lauderdale, Escalona faces up to 20 years in prison, with sentencing scheduled for May 23. The scheme involved fraudulent applications to CADIVI, intended to enrich those involved under the guise of financing food imports into Venezuela. This case highlights the corrupt practices that continue to come to light, linked to the Venezuelan regime.
"Of course" the migratory crisis will be a determining factor in the elections.
Telemundo News - March 5, 2024
Analysts, including Rafael Fernández de Castro, believe that the immigration crisis will play a determining role in the upcoming elections in the United States. The electoral campaign will see Republicans and Democrats debate in a tense political and legal environment on how to handle the immigration situation, highlighting the importance of this issue in the current political arena.
Biden and Trump sweep Super Tuesday and move closer to presidential nomination
Los Angeles Times en Espanol - March 5, 2024
Joe Biden and Donald Trump scored significant victories on Super Tuesday, advancing their paths to their respective parties' presidential nominations. As pressure mounts on Nikki Haley to drop out of the race, Biden and Trump demonstrate their dominance despite concerns about their age and popularity. Biden lost in American Samoa to an unknown candidate, while Haley scored a victory in Vermont. This scenario sets the stage for a possible rematch in the November elections, with both candidates showing strong dominance within their parties.
Super Tuesday: Biden and Trump cement path to a presidential rematch
Univision News - March 5, 2024
Joe Biden and Donald Trump won in most of the battleground states during Super Tuesday, moving closer to the number of delegates needed for the presidential nomination for the 2024 U.S. election. This result solidifies the possibility of a presidential rematch between the two.
What is Super Tuesday? These numbers will give you a good idea of your weight
Telemundo News - March 5, 2024
Super Tuesday is a decisive day in U.S. primaries, where one-third of each party's delegates are at stake. The number of states that participate may vary in each election cycle, but the importance of this day in defining the candidates is significant. Telemundo News explains the relevance of Super Tuesday and how it impacts the race for the presidential nomination.
Trump compares immigrants to Hannibal Lecter and their language as from Mars
La Opinión - March 5, 2024
In a recent interview, former President Donald Trump made controversial statements comparing immigrants in the United States to Hannibal Lecter and their languages to "tongues from the planet Mars." Trump harshly criticized immigrants, describing them as people from prisons and insane asylums, and questioned the country's ability to teach their languages. These statements, given on the eve of election 'Super Tuesday,' emphasize the former president's divisive rhetoric on immigration as he prepares for the November presidential election, where he faces Joe Biden.
U.S. extends national emergency declaration to Venezuela
Las Américas Newspaper - March 5, 2024
The administration of Joe Biden has extended for another year the declaration of national emergency with respect to Venezuela, citing the continued threat it poses to U.S. security. The measure, initially instituted in 2015, is in response to concerns about human rights and political persecution in Venezuela. The U.S. government, which does not recognize Nicolás Maduro's re-election in 2018, maintains sanctions against the regime, warning that it will re-impose restrictions on the oil and gas sector if no change of course is observed.
Former Honduran president defends himself in New York drug trial
Las Américas Newspaper - March 5, 2024
Former Honduran President Juan Orlando Hernandez denied in a New York trial that he collaborated with drug traffickers or accepted bribes, portraying himself as a fighter against drug trafficking. Hernandez, accused of protecting drug trafficking in exchange for bribes that boosted his political career, faces charges following testimony from drug traffickers. Despite his claims of cooperation with the US in capturing drug traffickers, the situation of his brother, sentenced to life in prison for drug trafficking, complicates his defense.
Two Hispanics shot at gas station: investigation a possible hate crime
Univision News - March 5, 2024
Two Salvadorans were shot in Virginia after being questioned about their time in the U.S., which is being investigated as a possible hate crime. The attacker fired after receiving an answer in Spanish, highlighting the seriousness of this attack.
New indictment of Menéndez gets him "into more trouble than the crime itself".
Telemundo News - March 5, 2024
A grand jury has added two new charges against Democratic Senator Menendez, related to obstruction of justice and conspiracy. These charges are in addition to previous corruption charges for allegedly receiving bribes in exchange for political favors. The situation further complicates the senator's legal position.
Former Honduran president takes rare step to testify in his defense at trial
Telemundo News - March 5, 2024
Former Honduran President Juan Orlando Hernandez made the unusual decision to testify in his own defense during the trial. In his testimony, Hernández presented himself as an ally of the US government in the fight against drug trafficking, despite being accused of facilitating drug-related activities.
More and more Latinos are joining the critics of Christian nationalism
Telemundo News - March 5, 2024
The growing Christian nationalism movement in the United States, seen by Christian leaders as a distortion of faith and a threat to democracy, is gaining sympathy among Hispanic Protestants. Despite the controversy surrounding this movement, 55% of Hispanic Protestants identify with it.
OTHER NEWS
ETIAS visa-free entry permit to Europe affects airlines
El Nuevo Herald - March 5, 2024
Starting in mid-2025, Europe will implement the ETIAS permit required for travelers from 60 countries, including the United States, affecting airlines and cruise ships. These companies will be required to verify passengers' ETIAS travel authorization 48 hours prior to departure. This change, prompted to strengthen European border security, will require travelers to apply for their ETIAS before traveling. European authorities warn that the lack of a valid ETIAS could prevent boarding, with possible penalties for carriers that fail to comply.
Ecuador the most violent, El Salvador the least: the list of countries with the most homicides in 2023
Univision News - March 5, 2024
Homicide rates in Latin America during 2023 show Ecuador topping the list as the most violent country, unseating Venezuela, while El Salvador ranks as the least violent. This shift reflects the new dynamics of violence in the region, according to a report by InSight Crime.
New Ideas gains control of the Legislative Assembly in El Salvador
DW English - March 5, 2024
The ruling New Ideas party in El Salvador won a decisive victory in the elections, obtaining 54 of the 60 seats in the Legislative Assembly. This victory consolidates the power of President Nayib Bukele and marks the first time in 30 years that the FMLN has no representation in the Assembly. In addition, the FMLN lost significantly in the municipal elections.
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.