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
New Lowell Immigration Court In Chelmsford, MA
Immigration Today® - April 4, 2024
The Executive Office for Immigration Review (EOIR) will open the new Lowell Immigration Court in Chelmsford, Massachusetts, on April 8, 2024, with 21 judges aimed at improving efficiency in the handling of immigration cases. This effort responds to the need to streamline court processes for immigrants, ensuring faster and fairer access to court services. The opening of this court is part of a broader initiative to meet growing demands and ensure an accessible judicial process, reaffirming EOIR's mission to adjudicate cases fairly and uniformly under the authority of the Attorney General.
Special passport acceptance fairs
U.S. Department of State - April 5, 2024
The United States is hosting special passport acceptance fairs across the country to help citizens obtain their passports. These events are aimed primarily at first-time applicants and children, offering an opportunity to apply early and avoid delays. Events are added weekly and those eligible for renewal are encouraged to use the mail-in service. These fairs represent an effort to facilitate the passport application process, ensuring that more citizens are prepared for international travel.
USCIS Announces New Guidelines on the Validity Period of Form I-693
USCIS - April 4, 2024
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) updated its policy on Form I-693, Report of Medical Examination and Immunization Record, stating that forms signed by a civilian physician on or after November 1, 2023 will not expire and will be valid indefinitely as proof of health eligibility for applicants. This decision, made in consultation with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and based on advances in electronic health reporting, allows USCIS to request additional evidence if it suspects changes in an applicant's medical condition. Forms completed prior to this date remain subject to the previous policies, remaining valid for two years, or three years in the case of individuals under Operation Welcome Allies.
Immigration Service announces change to Form I-693 for obtaining residency
Univision News - April 7, 2024
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has implemented an important update to Form I-693. As of April 4, 2024, any Form I-693 completed and signed by a civilian physician on or after November 1, 2023, will not expire. This modification eases the process for permanent residence applicants, as they can now use the form as proof that they are not inadmissible for health reasons, simplifying and expediting their path to obtaining residency.
USCIS Increases Automatic Extension of Certain Employment Authorization Documents to Improve Access to Work Permits
USCIS - April 4, 2024
USCIS announced a temporary final rule extending the duration of the automatic extension for certain Employment Authorization Documents (EADs) from 180 days to 540 days, seeking to avoid disruptions in employment authorization for renewal applicants. This measure, which responds to a record increase in EAD applications and reduced processing times, seeks to stabilize the workforce and support U.S. employers. This extension applies to renewal applications properly filed as of October 27, 2023 and is part of the Biden-Harris Administration's efforts to integrate employment-authorized individuals into the economy.
Biden Administration announces extension of work permits for these categories of immigrants
Telemundo News - April 4, 2024
The Biden Administration has extended work permits for certain categories of immigrants, extending the validity of Employment Authorization Documents (EADs) from 180 to 540 days. This measure, which goes into effect on April 8, will primarily benefit asylum seekers and aliens in adjustment of status, preventing hundreds of thousands from losing their jobs while their renewals are processed. This change responds to a record increase in EAD applications and is an effort to improve access to employment for eligible immigrants.
Work permits automatically extended to thousands of immigrants
Telemundo News - April 5th, 2024
Nearly one million immigrants will benefit from the automatic extension of the validity of their work permits for 540 days, without the need to complete any additional procedures. This measure represents an important support for the immigrant community, ensuring their right to work and contribution to the country's economy.
Extension of work permits for asylum and TPS applicants
Univision News - April 5, 2024
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has announced an automatic extension of the validity of work permits for asylum and TPS applicants. The extension will be from 180 to 540 days, applicable to those in the process of renewal. This measure facilitates the stay of immigrants while their applications are being processed.
Democrats urge USCIS to address DACA renewal backlogs in the face of Trump threats
La Opinión - April 4, 2024
Amid growing concerns about the future of the DACA program, Democratic senators, led by Alex Padilla and Dick Durbin, have urged USCIS to speed up the processing of DACA renewal applications, underscoring the urgency due to the uncertainty generated by litigation against the program and Donald Trump's statements about its termination. USCIS processing times have increased significantly, adding to beneficiaries' anxiety. Lawmakers emphasize the importance of DACA to Dreamers, who have contributed extensively to U.S. society and whose well-being and safety are compromised by delays in renewing their permits.
Peter Schey, a lawyer who defended immigrant rights in the U.S. for decades, dies.
El Diario NY - April 4, 2024
Peter Schey, a lawyer and leading activist in the defense of immigrant rights in the United States, has passed away at the age of 77 due to complications from cancer. Founder of the Center for Human Rights and Constitutional Law, Schey was instrumental in major legal changes, including the landmark Plyler v. Doe decision that allowed immigrant children access to public education, and the establishment of the "Flores settlement," guaranteeing dignified conditions for detained migrant minors. His work has left a lasting legacy in the fight for immigrant rights and their protection within the U.S. legal system.
ICE conducts removal flights of single adults, family units on April 5
ICE - April 5, 2024
U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has continued its operation of removal flights for single adults and family units through April 5, including destinations in Central America and other countries. This action is part of the policy of rapid deportation of individuals with no lawful basis to remain in the U.S. under existing laws. Since May 2023, DHS has removed or returned more than 630,000 individuals, primarily those who crossed the southwest border. The United States ensures that noncitizens are screened to determine whether they have valid protection claims, in compliance with U.S. law and international obligations.
Migration: An unexpected legacy of many young people
Voice of America - April 5, 2024
In Maryland, a high school mentoring program is helping young immigrants adjust to their new lives. The initiative, which is supported by the community and local police, focuses on easing the transition for these young people, many of whom inherit the challenge of migrating without expecting it.
Judge orders U.S. government to provide safe haven for migrant children crossing the border
El Diario NY - April 4, 2024
Judge Dolly M. Gee has ordered the U.S. government to provide safe and adequate housing for migrant children entering the country in defiance of current conditions that leave them out in the open. This order is based on the "Flores settlement," established to ensure humane treatment of unaccompanied minors, but also extends to those traveling with family. The decision underscores the government's obligation to promptly process these minors and guarantee them immediate access to basic services, including medical care, marking a significant step toward protecting the rights of migrant children in U.S. custody.
Judge Orders Border Patrol to Care for Migrant Children
Voice of America - April 5, 2024
A federal judge has ordered the U.S. Border Patrol to provide safe and clean shelter to migrant children arriving at the border. This decision seeks to ensure the welfare of minors while they await processing, emphasizing the need to improve detention conditions.
Federal judge orders protection for migrant children waiting in camps for processing
Univision News - April 6, 2024
A federal judge has ruled that Customs and Border Protection (CBP) must prevent migrant minors from waiting for hours in dangerous conditions in makeshift camps on the southern border. This decision requires the government to provide safe and sanitary facilities for the children while they wait to be processed by immigration authorities.
Unaccompanied migrant minors suffer ordeal in detention sites
Telemundo News - April 5th, 2024
A federal judge has ordered U.S. border officials to process and relocate unaccompanied migrant children who are being held in squalid conditions in makeshift outdoor sites. This decision comes after activists documented the deplorable conditions in which these minors are being held.
Texas National Guard member arrested on human smuggling charges at Mexico border
Telemundo News - April 4, 2024
Savion Amari Donovan Johnson, 26, a member of the Texas National Guard, was arrested on charges of human smuggling at the U.S.-Mexico border. During a police chase, Johnson attempted to elude authorities and allowed a migrant to leave his vehicle before being apprehended. This incident highlights the complexity of border challenges and individual actions that contradict national security efforts.
Abbott promises exemplary punishment for alleged migrant smuggler
Telemundo News - April 5th, 2024
Texas Governor Greg Abbott has promised exemplary punishment for Savion Johnson, 26, who is charged with human smuggling, evading arrest and unlawful carrying of a firearm. If found guilty, he faces up to 10 years in prison. This announcement underscores the tightening of policies against migrant smuggling in Texas.
Texas soldier assigned to guard border is accused of migrant smuggling
La Opinión - April 4, 2024
A member of the Texas National Guard, Savion Amari Donovan Johnson, was arrested and charged with migrant smuggling while assigned to border security operation Lone Star. Johnson attempted to avoid a checkpoint and was detained after a chase, during which he was found to be transporting an undocumented migrant. This incident highlights the challenges and contradictions in Texas border security policy as the state intensifies its agenda against undocumented immigration.
The moment a National Guard member accused of migrant smuggling is arrested.
Univision News - April 5, 2024
Savion Amari Donovan Johnson, a member of the Texas National Guard, was arrested after being accused of helping an undocumented immigrant cross the border. The arrest, captured on video, followed a pursuit by Texas Department of Public Safety and Kinney County Sheriff's deputies.
Texas arrests more than half a million immigrants in Operation Lone Star
Voice of America - April 5, 2024
Since the inception of Operation Lone Star three years ago, Texas has arrested more than half a million migrants for irregular border crossings. This operation underscores Texas' tough stance on handling irregular migration, marking a milestone in the number of arrests made.
Southern border residents criticize Mexico for giving $$110 to deported migrants
El Diario NY - April 7, 2024
Residents of Mexico's southern border expressed their discontent with the Mexican government's plan to grant $$110 per month to migrants deported from Venezuela, Colombia, and Ecuador, arguing that these funds should be used to support local families in poverty. They criticize the allocation of these resources instead of allocating them to educational scholarships for children in extreme poverty, highlighting an imbalance in the attention to local needs versus aid to migrants.
New York Mayor Offers Texas Governor to Stay in Immigrant Shelter
La Opinión - April 5, 2024
Eric Adams, Mayor of New York, has extended an invitation to Greg Abbott, Governor of Texas, to stay at an immigrant shelter to experience first-hand the consequences of his policy of sending immigrants to other cities. Adams took advantage of Abbott's visit to New York to remind him of the impact of his actions in the city and offered him lodging at a Humanitarian Emergency Relief and Response Center (HERRC) to understand the situation. Abbott, for his part, defended his immigrant removal strategy, noting that more than 105,000 people have been transported to sanctuary cities since August 2022.
Police find 13 Venezuelans, including nine children, crammed into windowless Indiana basement
El Diario NY - April 6, 2024
Police in Hammond, Indiana, discovered 13 Venezuelans, including nine children, living in deplorable conditions in a windowless basement. This finding underscores the humanitarian crisis affecting migrants in search of better living conditions. Local authorities have described the house as "uninhabitable", and the Venezuelans must vacate it soon. This case is a reflection of the challenges facing U.S. cities in the face of increased migration flows.
Tuberculosis cases detected among migrants living in Chicago shelters
El Diario NY - April 5, 2024
The Chicago Department of Public Health has reported a small number of cases of tuberculosis among immigrants housed in city shelters. The transmission of this disease, which primarily affects the lungs, has generated criticism of Mayor Brandon Johnson's administration for its handling of the vaccination of newly arrived immigrants. Councilman Raymond Lopez has demanded that U.S. vaccination standards be met for all asylum seekers and their children, stressing the importance of preventive measures to contain outbreaks of communicable diseases.
Two brothers arrested on suspicion of ongoing human smuggling of immigrants
Univision News - April 5, 2024
Two brothers have been arrested on suspicion of recruiting immigrants in Mexico to work in the United States without pay, forcing them to work overtime. This case highlights labor exploitation and human rights violations in the context of illegal immigration.
MS-13 member pleads guilty to 2017 quadruple murder in Central Islip
U.S. Department of Justice - Eastern District of New York - April 3, 2024
Edwin Rodriguez, alias "Manicomio," a member of the Mara Salvatrucha (MS-13), pleaded guilty to racketeering charges in connection with his involvement in the murders of Justin Llivicura, Michael Lopez, Jorge Tigre and Jefferson Villalobos on April 11, 2017. After committing the murders, Rodriguez was a fugitive until his arrest in El Salvador and extradition to the US in 2022. The guilty plea took place before Judge Joseph F. Bianco, and Rodriguez now faces a maximum sentence of life in prison. This case underscores the continued effort by the U.S. Attorney's Office for the Eastern District of New York to prosecute members of MS-13, highlighting the violent nature of this transnational criminal organization.
MS-13 gang member extradited to U.S. pleads guilty to crime committed in New York park
La Prensa Gráfica - April 3, 2024
MS-13 member Edwin Mauricio Rodriguez, alias "Manicomio," pleaded guilty to participating in four homicides in 2017 in a New York park. Rodriguez, a member of the Normandie Locos Salvatruchos clique, conspired to murder suspected rivals as part of his commitment to the gang. The brutally executed murders reflect MS-13's extreme tactics to instill fear and promote gang violence. The extradition of Rodriguez from El Salvador to the US marks a success in international collaboration to address MS-13's transnational criminal activities.
18th Street Gang Member Pleads Guilty to Racketeering Conspiracy and Two Murders
United States Department of Justice - Eastern District of New York - March 27, 2024
Yanki Misael Cruz-Mateo, a member of the 18th Street gang, pleaded guilty to racketeering conspiracy charges for his involvement in the murders of Jonathan Figueroa in October 2017 and Oscar Antonio Blanco Hernandez in February 2018. Cruz-Mateo faces a maximum sentence of life in prison. This case highlights the U.S. Department of Justice's commitment to combating gang violence and ensuring justice for the victims of these heinous crimes. Cooperation between federal and local agencies was key to the success of this investigation and prosecution, demonstrating the importance of collaboration in the fight against violent, transnational criminal organizations.
Trump's misleading graphic on illegal immigration.
FactCheck.org - April 4, 2024
During a speech in Green Bay, Wisconsin, former President Donald Trump showed a graph on apprehensions of people attempting to illegally enter the U.S. through the southwest border, erroneously claiming that the numbers during his last week in office were the lowest in history. However, these claims are incorrect, as apprehensions had increased significantly from a low during the pandemic in April 2020. In fact, apprehensions in his last months in office were higher than when he took office. Moreover, Trump was wrong to say that April 2020 was the lowest point in history; the lowest since 2000 was April 2017. During his tenure, the policies implemented fluctuated in their effectiveness in controlling illegal immigration, and while the pandemic saw a dramatic drop in apprehensions, they increased toward the end of his presidency.
OTHER NEWS
Secretary Blinken's call with President Abinader of the Dominican Republic
U.S. Department of State - April 5, 2024
U.S. Secretary of State, Antony J. Blinken, spoke with the President of the Dominican Republic, Luis Abinader, about coordinated actions regarding the situation in Haiti. Blinken thanked Abinader for his support in facilitating the return of U.S. families to the U.S., stressing the importance of bilateral cooperation on regional issues and attention to the circumstances in Haiti.
Mexico increases security on its northern border
Voice of America - April 5, 2024
The Mexican government has deployed close to 200 agents from various law enforcement agencies in the vicinity of the Río Bravo. This operation is aimed at containing migrants and reinforcing security along Mexico's northern border.
Alleged irregularities by Mexican immigration agents investigated
Voice of America - April 5, 2024
Mexico's federal prosecutor's office is investigating two immigration officials in Tijuana for alleged illegalities. The homes of the officials were searched as part of the investigation, and migrant advocates are demanding speed and transparency in the process.
Colombia and Panama denied that they are abandoning migrants in Darién
DW English - April 5, 2024
The governments of Colombia and Panama have rejected Human Rights Watch's accusations that they are failing to protect migrants in the Darien. Since 2023, more than 600,000 people have attempted to cross this dangerous jungle on their way to the United States.
3 keys to the raid on the Mexican embassy in Ecuador that led to the severing of relations
BBC News World - April 6, 2024
A police operation at the Mexican embassy in Quito resulted in the capture of Ecuador's former vice president, Jorge Glas, accused of embezzlement of public funds. Glas had taken refuge in the embassy since December, alleging political persecution. This incident led the president of Mexico, Andrés Manuel López Obrador, to suspend diplomatic relations with Ecuador, an action that has generated international criticism from leaders such as the president of Honduras, Xiomara Castro, and the president of Chile, Gabriel Boric.
Arizona authorizes the sale of homemade hot meals
Voice of America - April 5, 2024
Arizona has legalized the sale of home-prepared hot foods, including tamales, with the governor's signing of the Tamale Law. This law allows residents to sell homemade food without breaking the law, facilitating a livelihood for many families.
Mexican wrestling was born in El Paso, Texas.
Voice of America - April 5, 2024
We explore the origins of Mexican wrestling in El Paso, Texas, where this discipline that has become an iconic sport in Mexico began to germinate. This report takes us through time to discover how wrestling has influenced Mexican culture.
Chicago Latino Film Festival celebrates 40 years of illuminating with art, action and culture
La Raza - April 4, 2024
The Chicago Latino Film Festival celebrates its 40th anniversary, a trajectory marked by a dedication to presenting the best of Spanish and Portuguese-language cinema. Founded by Pepe Vargas, the festival has grown from an initial screening in front of 500 spectators to an anticipated cultural event each year in Chicago. This year, the festival will present 50 feature films and 35 short films, with 80 actors and directors in attendance. Over the years, the festival has faced challenges such as maintaining the accessibility of film in the face of digital change, but remains committed to its mission of sharing Latino culture and fostering understanding beyond stereotypes. This year's celebration reflects the festival's continued commitment to the art of film and its impact on the community.
In the new documentary "Frida", animation brings Frida Kahlo's work even more to life
CNN En Español - April 7, 2024
The documentary "Frida", awarded at the Sundance Independent Film Festival, is now available in theaters and streaming platforms. Directed by Peruvian filmmaker Carla Gutiérrez, this project stands out as her directorial debut. Using both Frida Kahlo's famous self-portraits and her personal letters and writings, the documentary offers a deep dive into the artistic and personal life of the iconic artist. The use of animation greatly enriches the presentation of her work, bringing a new dimension to her legacy and allowing her story and art to come more alive than ever before.
From carts and streetcars with mules, to the train and the first "cabs": how Salvadorans transported themselves in the last century (+PHOTOS)
La Prensa Gráfica - April 3, 2024
The evolution of transportation in El Salvador at the beginning of the last century reflects a significant transformation from animal-drawn carts and mule-drawn streetcars to the introduction of the train and the first cab services. The first streets of San Salvador, paved with stones, saw mainly equines and carts, changing the panorama with the arrival of the tramway and then the train, managed by the company Ferrocarril Internacional de Centroamérica (IRCA), which facilitated the movement of the growing agricultural production and people to the capital. In addition, the transition to the electric tramway in 1921 marked the beginning of a new era in urban transportation. Buses, manufactured locally using truck chassis imported from the United States, began to offer an alternative service, marking the beginning of the modernization of public transportation in the country. This historical journey through photographs and data reveals not only the changes in the means of transportation, but also the social and economic changes that these drove in El Salvador during the last century.
IMPORTANT INFORMATION
I have used an artificial intelligence tool, programmed with specific instructions, to summarize each article or video. These summaries provide a quick overview of the most important topics.
While these summaries are intended 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 be informed, but the final interpretation of each article or video is up to you.
As the distributor of this information, I assume no responsibility for the details or interpretations of the summaries. My goal is to provide you with quick and efficient access to the most important immigration news, helping you stay informed and connected to your community.
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.
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