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
How to register for the 2026 visa lottery?
Immigration Today® - October 3, 2024
The 2026 Diversity Immigrant Visa Program offers up to 55,000 permanent resident visas annually to individuals from countries with low immigration to the United States. Requirements include being a native of an eligible country, having completed secondary education or qualifying work experience, and meeting general visa requirements. The application period is October 2 through November 5, 2024 via electronic form DS-5501 at dvprogram.state.gov. Winners must complete the visa process by September 30, 2026. The importance of avoiding fraud and using only official sources is emphasized.
Update on the Diversity Visa Program (DV) 2024
U.S. Department of State - October 1, 2024
The 2024 Diversity Visa Program has concluded, allowing individuals from countries with low rates of immigration to the United States to apply for immigrant visas. Although selection does not guarantee a visa, the program selects more people than there are visas available to ensure maximum use of the visas. Enrollment for the 2026 program will begin in October 2024, and those eligible are encouraged to participate. The Department of State remains committed to facilitating travel for program beneficiaries.
Reduced processing times for U.S. passports
U.S. Department of State - October 3, 2024
The U.S. Department of State has announced a reduction in passport processing times to 4-6 weeks, improving the efficiency and accessibility of the process. This change applies to both paper and online applications. For expedited services, the processing time remains 2-3 weeks. In addition, an online passport renewal system has been implemented to facilitate the process for U.S. citizens. Citizens are advised to check the expiration date of their passports and apply early.
Biden will not renew humanitarian parole for Cubans, Venezuelans, Nicaraguans and Haitians when it expires after two years
Telemundo News - October 4, 2024
Joe Biden's administration announced that it will not renew the humanitarian parole for Cubans, Venezuelans, Nicaraguans and Haitians, which has allowed hundreds of thousands of migrants to reside and work in the United States for two years. Upon expiration, beneficiaries must seek another immigration status or leave the country. Since its implementation in 2022, more than 530,000 people have been authorized to enter under this program, designed to prevent illegal crossings. Although the program remains in effect for new applicants, its limited duration poses uncertainties for current beneficiaries, who must find legal alternatives to remain in the country.
Thousands of migrants on edge after learning that humanitarian parole will not be renewed
Telemundo News - October 4, 2024
The humanitarian parole program, designed to reduce illegal crossings as of October 2022, has benefited more than 530,000 Venezuelan, Cuban, Nicaraguan and Haitian migrants. However, the recent news that this program will not be renewed has left thousands of people in uncertainty, raising concerns about the future of their immigration status in the United States.
Immigrants denounce a type of scam by fake consular agents
Telemundo News - October 4, 2024
The '15 de Septiembre' Foundation has received multiple complaints from Honduran immigrants who have been victims of scams by fake consular agents. The immigrants, mostly from various U.S. states, have reported fraud related to passport procedures, including the delivery of false documents in exchange for significant payments.
Oct. 10 is key 'parole in place' day for undocumented spouses of U.S. citizens
Univision News - October 4, 2024
On October 10, the 5th Circuit Court of Appeals in New Orleans will hear arguments on parole in place, a program that allows 550,000 undocumented spouses and stepchildren of U.S. citizens to adjust their immigration status without leaving the country. This program, suspended by a Texas court, faces similar legal challenges to the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program. Both lawsuits, brought by states led by Texas, seek to dismantle key immigration measures of the Biden administration, affecting millions of people. The court's decision could have a significant impact on the future of these immigration policies.
Low-paying jobs or prostitution: the difficulties faced by immigrant women arriving in Colorado in search of work
Telemundo News - October 4, 2024
In Aurora, Colorado, South American immigrant women face significant challenges when seeking employment, often encountering low-paying jobs or pressure to resort to prostitution. Many, like Sofia Roca, a Colombian immigrant, arrive hoping to find economic opportunities, but face hostility and unpreparedness from local communities. The situation is compounded by competition with the local Mexican community, which also struggles for jobs and limited resources. Despite the hardships, some women find ways to survive, albeit often in precarious conditions and at low wages.
DACA returns to court on Oct. 10: dreamers confident that the program will be fully reinstated
Univision News - October 3, 2024
The Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program returns to the 5th Circuit Court of Appeals on October 10, after being declared illegal in 2023. The hearing will pit states led by Texas against the Joe Biden administration and pro-immigrant organizations. DACA, which protects 560,000 undocumented young people from deportation, has been a subject of legal dispute since its inception in 2012. The court will decide whether the program can continue, affecting thousands of 'dreamers' hoping to renew their protections and work permits. The decision could escalate to the Supreme Court if the ruling of illegality is upheld.
USCIS issues new guidance on eligibility criteria for individuals with extraordinary ability
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services - October 2, 2024
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has issued new policy guidance to clarify the eligibility criteria for EB-1 visa classification for individuals with extraordinary ability. The guidance confirms consideration of team awards, clarifies the evaluation of past memberships, eliminates the need for published material to demonstrate the value of the individual's work, and specifies that only artistic exhibitions will be considered. This update seeks to provide greater clarity and transparency for applicants, and is effective immediately, replacing any previous related guidance.
DSOs: When to Defer a Student's Program Start Date
U.S. Department of Homeland Security - October 1, 2024
A designated school official must defer a student's program start date in the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System if U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has not approved the student's change of status. A new SEVIS record should not be created; instead, the start date should be deferred to the next academic term. Students with pending change of status applications may enroll on a part-time basis, but should not register for SEVIS until the change of status is approved. This ensures that the I-901 fee payment is properly tied to the appropriate SEVIS registration.
SAVE no longer requires Advance Collection Agreements (ACAs).
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services - October 1, 2024
Effective October 1, 2024, the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) SAVE program no longer requires user agencies to submit Advance Collection Agreements, thereby reducing administrative burdens. Agencies will only be required to provide updated billing information when necessary. Federal and non-Federal agencies must send billing information updates via designated emails, including tax identification number and billing contact information. This measure simplifies the billing process and maintains operational efficiency.
Louisiana farm ordered to pay $12,000 in civil penalties and disqualified from participating in H-2A program for threatening farm workers and denying them water
U.S. Department of Labor - September 30, 2024
A Louisiana farm, Rivet & Sons, has been fined $12,000 and banned from participating in the H-2A program for one year after threatening farm workers and denying them water. The investigation revealed that the farm operator, Glynn Rivet, intimidated workers with guns and shots. The Department of Labor, committed to protecting the rights of farmworkers, has imposed additional penalties for failure to comply with sanitation standards. The resolution of the case underscores the department's intolerance of abuse and retaliation against workers.
Statement by Secretary Alejandro N. Mayorkas on the Biden-Harris Administration's Final Border Security Rule
U.S. Department of Homeland Security - September 30, 2024
Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro N. Mayorkas announced the final rule tightening U.S. border security, limiting eligibility for asylum and increasing consequences for illegal border crossers at the southern border. Since June, illegal crossings have decreased by more than 55%. The administration has increased migrant removal and dismantled smuggling networks, but stresses the need for legislative action by Congress to provide more resources and personnel. Bipartisan collaboration to strengthen border security is highlighted.
Fact Sheet: Joint DHS-DOJ Final Rule to Restrict Asylum Eligibility at the Southern Border
U.S. Department of Homeland Security - September 30, 2024
The Biden-Harris administration issued a joint DHS-DOJ final rule restricting asylum eligibility for those who enter during high levels of encounters at the southern border. This measure, effective until average daily encounters fall below 1,500 for 28 consecutive days, includes unaccompanied children from all non-contiguous countries. Since June, removals have increased significantly, with more than 121,000 individuals repatriated and an 80% reduction in releases to removal proceedings. The Administration continues to ask Congress for legislative support to bolster border security and necessary resources.
This young Salvadoran girl is one of the fastest skaters in the world.
Telemundo News - October 6th, 2024
Ivonne Nóchez, a 20-year-old Salvadoran girl, has stood out in the skating world by becoming champion in the 100-meter lane at the World Skate Games 2024, held in Italy. Despite suffering three collarbone fractures during her career, she has shown unwavering perseverance on her path to success, facing sacrifices in training and overcoming physical challenges to consolidate herself among the fastest skaters in the world.
Hispanic artist reflects the reality of migrants in photographs
Telemundo News - October 4, 2024
Hispanic photographer Sisel Lan has captured the migratory experience in his exhibition "Migrants: a tale of two hearts," on display at the Museo de las Américas. Through his images, he pays tribute to those who seek the American dream, showing the challenges and courage of migrants on their journey to a new life.
Yuma Air Branch officers rescue migrants in distress
U.S. Bureau of Customs and Border Protection - October 4, 2024
In Yuma, Arizona, an aerial team from the Yuma Air Branch, along with Border Patrol agents from the Yuma Sector, rescued a group of migrants in distress in the Sonoran Desert. The agents responded to a tip at the Cabeza Prieta National Wildlife Refuge, where they found five migrants in distress. A 14-year-old teenager was rescued and transported to a hospital due to extreme dehydration. All of the migrants received medical attention and are in the process of being deported. The Mexican Consulate has been notified of the incident.
U.S. Border Patrol apprehends 64 Haitians abandoned by smugglers on Mona Island
U.S. Bureau of Customs and Border Protection - October 3, 2024
In Aguadilla, Puerto Rico, Border Patrol agents apprehended 64 Haitians who were abandoned by smugglers on Mona Island. The group, composed of men, women and minors, was rescued by the U.S. Coast Guard and handed over to agents for processing and deportation. Authorities reiterate that there are legal and safe ways to migrate to the United States, and warn about the dangers of trusting traffickers. Sector Ramey, responsible for the region, continues to monitor the coast to prevent illegal entries.
Traffickers abandon 14 Haitians on Monito Island
U.S. Bureau of Customs and Border Protection - September 30, 2024
In Aguadilla, Puerto Rico, Border Patrol agents detained 14 Haitians who were abandoned by smugglers on Monito Island, an uninhabited nature reserve. The group, composed of men, women and minors, was rescued by the U.S. Coast Guard and transferred to the port of Mayagüez for processing and deportation. Authorities emphasize the existence of legal routes to migrate and warn about the risks of using smugglers' services. Sector Ramey remains committed to migrant safety and border protection.
ICE conducts removal flights of single adults, family units on Oct. 4
U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement - October 4, 2024
U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has continued removal flights of single adults and family units to several countries, including Central America, Colombia, Ecuador, Dominican Republic, Mexico, and Peru. Since the end of the Title 42 public health order, the Department of Homeland Security has removed more than 742,000 individuals. ICE ensures that all noncitizens without lawful basis to remain in the United States are screened to determine if they have valid claims of protection. Removal operations are conducted in an orderly and humane manner, with noncitizens filing their petitions for relief before immigration judges.
ERO Boston arrests Brazilian man with drug distribution record on Martha's Vineyard
U.S. Detention and Deportation Operations - October 4, 2024
In Oak Bluffs, Massachusetts, ERO Boston arrested a 21-year-old Brazilian national with a history of possession for distribution of controlled substances in Edgartown. The individual entered the United States illegally in June 2021 and was served a notice to appear before an immigration judge. He was arrested on September 18 and remains in ERO custody. ERO's mission is to protect the safety of U.S. communities by arresting and removing non-citizen violators.
ERO Philadelphia removes a Colombian wanted for homicide
U.S. Detention and Deportation Operations - October 4, 2024
ERO Philadelphia deported Marvin Andres Echeverri Ciro, a Colombian national wanted for murder in Colombia. Echeverri was lawfully admitted to the United States in 2020, but violated the terms of his admission. He was arrested in New Jersey for terroristic threats and violation of a restraining order. An immigration judge ordered his removal to Colombia on August 21. ERO emphasizes that the United States is not a safe haven for criminals and continues to protect public safety by removing non-citizens with criminal records.
ERO Boston arrests Brazilian man on drug, gun and ammunition charges on Martha's Vineyard
U.S. Detention and Deportation Operations - October 4, 2024
In Oak Bluffs, Massachusetts, ERO Boston arrested Gustavo Augusto Mroczkoski, a 28-year-old Brazilian national charged with drug, weapons and ammunition offenses. Mroczkoski illegally entered the United States in May 2021 and was released on recognizance in July 2021. He was rearrested in September 2024 and remains in ERO custody. The agency continues to prioritize public safety by apprehending and removing non-citizen offenders who pose a threat to communities.
ERO New York City arrests Ecuadorian national convicted of criminal possession of a firearm
U.S. Detention and Deportation Operations - October 4, 2024
In New York, ERO arrested a 42-year-old Ecuadorian national convicted of criminal possession of a firearm. Sanctuary policies prevented local authorities from notifying ERO prior to his release. The individual, who entered the United States illegally in 2013, was arrested in Brooklyn and remains in custody pending deportation to Ecuador. ERO emphasizes the importance of warrants for public safety, allowing arrests in controlled environments and minimizing the risk of recidivism.
Statement from ICE Spokesperson Jenny Burke on the ICE Forward Processing Facility
U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement - October 4, 2024
ICE has provided notice of its intent to extend the current task order for the ICE Processing Facility in Adelanto, California, until December 19, 2024. This extension allows the agency to maintain readiness while planning for future use of the facility. ICE's ability to remove individuals to their home countries and detain those who pose a threat to public safety is directly dependent on the location and availability of detention space. ICE continues to modernize the immigration system to achieve cost efficiencies.
ERO Baton Rouge arrests sex offender on the run
U.S. Detention and Removal Office - October 3, 2024
The New Orleans Office of Detention and Removal (ERO) arrested Carlos Vasquez, a Honduran national convicted of sexual assault and contributing to the delinquency of a minor. Vasquez, who entered the United States illegally, was wrongfully released in 2019. ERO Baton Rouge filed a detainer in 2017, but it was ignored. Vasquez was arrested again in Baton Rouge and is in removal proceedings. ERO is responsible for the removal of individuals with no lawful basis to remain in the country, ensuring that immigration laws are enforced and the safety of communities is protected.
ERO Seattle removes Costa Rican national convicted for drug trafficking
U.S. Detention and Deportation Operations - October 2, 2024
ERO Seattle deported Juan Carlos Barrantes, a 40-year-old Costa Rican national convicted of drug trafficking, to his home country on Sept. 25. Barrantes was arrested by the U.S. Coast Guard in 2020 and convicted of possession of cocaine with intent to distribute. He served a 60-month prison sentence before being transferred to the ICE Processing Center in Seattle. An immigration judge ordered his deportation to Costa Rica, where he is also wanted for drug trafficking. ERO Seattle emphasizes its commitment to protecting the country from foreign drug traffickers.
ERO New York City arrests non-Venezuelan citizen and Tren de Aragua gang member convicted of criminal possession of a firearm
U.S. Office of Detention and Removal - October 2, 2024
New York's Office of Detention and Removal (ERO) arrested Javier José Albornoz Marchan, a Venezuelan national and member of the Tren de Aragua gang, convicted of criminal possession of a firearm. Albornoz was released on several occasions by local jurisdictions that ignored ERO's detainers. He was eventually detained on Staten Island and is awaiting removal proceedings. ERO emphasizes the importance of detainers to public safety and criticizes the policies of sanctuary jurisdictions that prevent cooperation with immigration authorities.
ERO New York City arrests previously deported Mexican citizen, member of Benkard Barrio Kings gang
U.S. Detention and Deportation Operations - October 2, 2024
In New York, ERO arrested a 36-year-old Mexican national, a member of the Benkard Barrio Kings gang, involved in narcotics and weapons trafficking. The individual, previously deported, was arrested on September 20 outside his residence in Newburgh. ERO emphasizes its commitment to locate and remove non-citizens who pose a threat to public safety. The detainee remains in the custody of the U.S. Marshals pending trial.
ERO Baltimore arrests Honduran man convicted of assaulting Maryland resident
U.S. Detention and Deportation Operations - October 1, 2024
In Baltimore, ERO arrested Evin Obdulio Ponce-Guillen, a 26-year-old Honduran national convicted of second-degree assault on a Maryland resident. Ponce entered the United States illegally and was arrested on September 19 in Waldorf. ERO Baltimore underscores its commitment to protecting Maryland communities by prioritizing public safety through the apprehension and removal of non-citizen offenders. Ponce remains in custody pending removal proceedings.
ERO Boston arrests fugitive on Martha's Vineyard wanted by Brazilian authorities for international drug trafficking
U.S. Detention and Removal Operations - September 30, 2024
In Oak Bluffs, Massachusetts, ERO Boston arrested a 36-year-old Brazilian fugitive wanted by Brazilian authorities to serve more than 10 years for international drug trafficking. The individual was arrested on September 17 after information about his whereabouts was received in ERO Boston's area of operations. ERO continues to prioritize public safety by apprehending and removing non-citizen offenders who pose a threat to New England communities. The fugitive remains in ERO custody.
ERO New York City arrests Indian national unlawfully present and convicted of theft
U.S. Detention and Removal Operations - September 30, 2024
In New York, ERO arrested a 46-year-old Indian national convicted of theft by the Orange County Court. The individual, who entered the United States as a B2 visitor in 2015 and violated the terms of admission, was arrested on September 27 and remains in ICE custody pending removal proceedings. ERO continues to prioritize public safety by apprehending non-citizens who commit crimes in the United States.
ERO Boston arrests fugitive wanted by Salvadoran authorities for crimes against humanity and human trafficking
U.S. Detention and Removal Operations - September 30, 2024
In Tisbury, Massachusetts, ERO Boston arrested a 50-year-old Salvadoran national wanted for crimes against humanity and human trafficking in El Salvador. The individual, who entered the United States illegally in 1994, was arrested on September 17 and remains in ERO custody. Salvadoran authorities indicted him in 2011, and ERO Boston emphasizes its commitment to protecting public safety by arresting and removing non-citizen offenders.
ERO Baltimore arrests Salvadoran gang member previously deported in Maryland
U.S. Detention and Removal Operations - September 30, 2024
In Aberdeen, Maryland, ERO Baltimore arrested Kevin Mauricio Guzman-Martinez, a 28-year-old Salvadoran national and previously deported MS-13 gang member. Guzman was arrested on September 26 with the assistance of Aberdeen Police. ERO Baltimore underscores its commitment to protecting Maryland communities by prioritizing public safety through the apprehension and removal of non-citizen offenders.
ICE conducts removal flights of single adults and family units on Sept. 27th
U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement - September 27, 2024
ICE, in coordination with the Department of Homeland Security, continued to facilitate removal flights for single adults and family units between September 23 and 27. The flights included destinations in Central America, Colombia, Cuba, Ecuador, Haiti, Cote d'Ivoire, Jamaica, Liberia, Mauritania, and Mexico. Since the end of the Title 42 public health order, DHS has removed more than 742,000 individuals. ICE ensures that all noncitizens with no lawful basis to remain in the United States are screened to determine if they have valid claims of protection.
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.