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.
By reading these summaries, you will gain quick insights into critical issues, allowing you to make more informed decisions and stay on top of what is happening in the immigrant community.
IMMIGRATION NEWS IN THE UNITED STATES
USCIS Issues Final Rule to Adjust Certain Immigration and Naturalization Fees
USCIS - January 31, 2024
The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has released a final rule to adjust certain fees for applications for immigration and naturalization benefits, the first update since 2016. This rule allows USCIS to more fully recover its operational costs and facilitate the timely processing of new applications. The rule is the result of a comprehensive, statutorily required fee review and considers public comments received in January 2023. Among the important changes, the rule reduces the agency's annual cost recovery by nearly $730 million, expands fee waivers for certain groups, provides discounts for nonprofits and small employers, and allows for half-price Employment Authorization Document applications for certain applicants. It also expands eligibility for a 50% fee reduction for naturalization applications for individuals with family incomes between 150% and 400% from the Federal Poverty Guidelines. The new fees will take effect April 1, 2024, and USCIS will accept previous editions of most forms during a grace period until June 3, 2024. The new fees will generate revenue to implement innovative solutions and improve the customer experience, although USCIS will still need congressional appropriations to sustainably manage the increased volume of border-related cases.
USCIS Announces Enhanced Integrity Measures for H-1B Program
USCIS - January 30, 2024
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has announced a final rule to strengthen integrity and reduce fraud in the H-1B registration process. This rule seeks to minimize improper intervention in the registration system and ensure equal opportunity for all beneficiaries, regardless of the number of registrations filed on their behalf. USCIS Director Ur M. Jaddou emphasized the importance of improving and streamlining the application processes. The final rule introduces a beneficiary-focused screening process, where records will be screened by single beneficiary, not by record, to reduce fraud. In addition, valid passport or travel document information for each beneficiary will be required for registration. The rule also allows USCIS to deny or revoke H-1B petitions if the underlying record is invalid or contains false statements. The new measures will take effect after the FY 2025 initial registration period for H-1B visas, with a registration fee of $10. Online filing of Form I-129 and Form I-907 for H-1B petitions will also be possible beginning February 28, 2024.
ERO Baltimore Arrests Salvadoran MS-13 Member Convicted of Being an Accessory to Murder in Maryland
ICE - January 30, 2024
Baltimore's Office of Removal and Enforcement Operations (ERO) has arrested a 30-year-old Salvadoran MS-13 gang member convicted in 2023 of being an accessory after the fact in a first-degree murder in Montgomery County. The arrest was made near his residence in Silver Spring. According to Darius Reeves, ERO Baltimore Field Office Director, the presence of this gang member in the U.S. poses a threat to the safety and peace of mind of residents. The individual was initially encountered by the U.S. Border Patrol in Texas in 2006 and was subsequently turned over to the Office of Refugee Resettlement. An immigration judge ordered his deportation to El Salvador in 2007. He was arrested and charged by the Montgomery County Police Department in January 2023. Despite an immigration detainer, he was released by the Montgomery County Circuit Court and subsequently arrested by ERO Baltimore. He will remain in ICE custody until his removal from the United States.
Border Patrol Agents Arrest Illegal Migrant Wanted for First Degree Murder
CBP - January 30, 2024
U.S. Border Patrol agents assigned to Sector Swanton have arrested Luis Miguel Eucebio-Severino, a 29-year-old citizen of the Dominican Republic, wanted for first-degree murder in Toronto, Canada. The arrest occurred near Westville, New York, following a report from a concerned citizen. Eucebio-Severino was found in a nearby field with the assistance of a U.S. Customs and Border Protection helicopter. It was determined that he had no immigration documents or legal status to be in the U.S. He was subsequently returned to the Canada Border Services Agency in Cornwall, Ontario, and later taken into custody by Toronto Police. Dustin Judd, Agent in Charge of Burke Station Patrol, highlighted the importance of international cooperation and relations with Canadian law enforcement in this case. Sector Swanton is responsible for securing the land border between ports of entry in Vermont, New Hampshire and northeastern New York.
It Will Be More Expensive to Be a U.S. Citizen Starting April 1, But Not for Everyone, USCIS Confirms
La Opinión - January 31, 2024
The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has confirmed that effective April 1, the fee for the naturalization process will increase by five percent, bringing the cost to $$760. However, USCIS will offer discounts to low-income families, reducing the cost to $$380 for those who qualify. This fee update is the first since 2016 and seeks to address USCIS' operating expenses. USCIS Director Ur Jaddou emphasized the need for this update to improve customer service and reduce backlogs. Despite the increases, NALEO (National Association of Latino Elected and Appointed Officials) expressed concern about the economic impact of these fees on low-income families. USCIS integrated 5,400 public comments into the final rulemaking, which also includes a lower filing fee for online applicants.
USCIS Issues Final Rule Adjusting Certain Immigration and Naturalization Fees
La Opinión - January 30, 2024
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has published a final rule to adjust certain application fees for immigration and naturalization benefits, the first update since 2016. According to USCIS, these new fees will help recover some of the operational costs and support more timely processing of new applications. USCIS Director Ur M. Jaddou stressed that the fee update is crucial to improving customer service and reducing the backlog. The final rule includes fee waivers for certain humanitarian categories, discounts for nonprofit organizations and small business employers, and a 50% reduction in naturalization fees for individuals with family incomes between 150% and 400% of the federal poverty guidelines. The new rates will take effect on April 1, 2024.
Congressional Hispanic Caucus Pushes for Immigration Priorities Including Green Card for Undocumented Immigrants
La Opinión - January 30, 2024
The Congressional Hispanic Caucus (CHC) has presented its immigration priorities, including a proposal to allow undocumented immigrants to apply for Green Cards. This proposal calls for reforming the Registry, last amended in the 1980s, to provide a pathway to citizenship. In addition, the CHC advocates advancing the parole process, expediting the Employment Authorization Document (EAD) for new immigrants, and definitively protecting dreamers and DACA recipients. The plan, presented by leaders such as Adriano Espaillat, Rob Menendez and Nanette Barragan, also includes proposals to expand temporary protection programs and fund asylum case management. The CHC seeks to negotiate with the Biden administration to advance these priorities.
Texas Lieutenant Governor Reiterates Continued Mounting of Barbed Wire and Fences on Border
La Opinión - January 30, 2024
Dan Patrick, Lieutenant Governor of Texas, has stated that the state will continue to install barbed wire fences along its border with Mexico, despite a Supreme Court order allowing federal law enforcement to tear down these barriers. This measure seeks to curb the arrival of immigrants. Texas and the federal administration are in dispute over control of a section near Eagle Pass, with opposing views on immigration strategy. The Texas National Guard even blocked federal Border Patrol access to a park used to process immigrants. Governor Greg Abbott defends these actions as a fight against what he considers an "invasion", and plans to severely punish undocumented immigrants entering Texas starting in March.
Texas Alert for Call to "Armed Extremists", Warns LULAC
La Opinión - January 30, 2024
The League of United Latin American Citizens (LULAC) has issued a National Alert on the possible arrival of "armed extremists" in Texas, accusing Governor Greg Abbott of inciting violence with his rhetoric. Domingo Garcia, president of LULAC, urges members, especially in Texas, to be vigilant. The organization cites the El Paso shooting as an example of violence directed at Hispanics and criticizes the use of hate speech. LULAC also notes that a group called "Army of God" plans to target Texas and the U.S.-Mexico border. The organization calls for caution and avoidance of confrontation, focusing on voting as a tool for change.
US: Lower House Panel Approves Impeachment of Homeland Security Secretary Mayorkas
Los Angeles Times en Español - January 31, 2024
The Republican-controlled U.S. House Homeland Security Committee approved impeachment proceedings against Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas. They accuse him of "willfully and systematically" refusing to enforce immigration laws and breaching the public trust with claims about southern border security. This all-day and part of the night prosecution is a rare indictment against a cabinet member and reflects Donald Trump's anti-immigration stance. All Republicans on the committee voted in favor, while Democrats opposed. The lower House could vote on Mayorkas impeachment next week. If approved, the charges would be referred to the Senate for a trial. Mayorkas, in a letter to the committee, emphasized the need to work with the Biden administration to update immigration laws and address global migration.
Republicans Move Forward with 'Impeachment' of Alejandro Mayorkas Who They Accuse of "Breaking the Law" on Immigration
La Opinión - January 30, 2024
The Republican-led House Homeland Security Committee is moving forward with impeachment proceedings against Alejandro Mayorkas, Secretary of Homeland Security. Mayorkas is accused of failing to comply with immigration laws and making false statements. Despite objections from Democrats, the process continues, although it is unlikely to succeed in the Senate. Mayorkas defends his administration and accuses the process of being political and allowing personal attacks. The White House has called the impeachment trial "disgraceful".
Alejandro Mayorkas defends himself against attempts to impeach him with a letter
Telemundo News - January 30, 2024
This Telemundo News video reports on the defense of Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas in the face of attempts to impeach him. Mayorkas released an 11-page letter highlighting the immigration accomplishments of the Biden Administration and assuring that Republican accusations will not distract him from his commitment to law enforcement.
Why do Republicans want to impeach Mayorkas?
CNN in English - January 30, 2024
This CNN en Español video explores the reasons behind the efforts of Republicans in the U.S. Congress to impeach Alejandro Mayorkas, Secretary of Homeland Security. Congressman Carlos Jimenez, Republican Representative, details the motivations behind this decision, providing deeper insight into the current political tensions surrounding Mayorkas.
Effort to impeach Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas moves forward
Telemundo News - January 30, 2024
Noticias Telemundo's video addresses Republican efforts to carry out an 'impeachment' against Alejandro Mayorkas, Biden's Secretary of Homeland Security. Although Republicans may be able to get impeachment approved in the House of Representatives, Democrats control the Senate, where impeachment trials are held, which could complicate the process.
Republicans and Democrats discuss impeachment of Mayorkas
Telemundo News - January 30, 2024
Noticias Telemundo's video covers the discussions between Republicans and Democrats in the House Homeland Security Committee on the impeachment of Alejandro Mayorkas. The Secretary of Homeland Security sent a letter to the committee prior to the discussion, in a context where the impeachment process is being considered.
Senate Immigration Agreement is "Completely Dead," Says Johnson
El Tiempo Latino - January 30, 2024
Mike Johnson, Speaker of the House, has declared that the Senate's bipartisan immigration agreement is "totally broken". This statement came in a confidential meeting with House Republicans. The Senate has failed to pass the immigration deal due to serious divisions among senators, and the House, led by Johnson, is looking to President Joe Biden to strengthen its border security proposal. Johnson has held talks with former President Donald Trump on immigration reform, focusing on national security and border management. Despite the Senate's efforts, senior House Republicans have already dismissed the Senate compromise on immigration, vowing that it will not pass the House.
Biden Can Stop Border Chaos by Allowing More Immigrants to Migrate to U.S. Legally, NYT Editorial Says
El Diario NY - January 30, 2024
David Bier, associate director of Immigration Studies at the CATO Institute, suggests in a New York Times op-ed that President Joe Biden could reduce the chaos at the border by expanding the parole program, currently limited to five countries. Bier argues that allowing more immigrants to enter the U.S. legally could lessen tension at the border and counter invasion rhetoric. He notes that the current political polarization on immigration issues is a significant change from previous decades, when there was more bipartisan consensus. Bier proposes private sponsorship programs to facilitate the legal and orderly entry of immigrants, which could alleviate the need to expand resources and provide employment and housing prior to their arrival.
Venezuela Takes Advantage of U.S. Migration Crisis and Threatens to Revoke Repatriation of Migrants
El Diario NY - January 30, 2024
The government of Nicolás Maduro in Venezuela has threatened to revoke repatriation flights of Venezuelan migrants from the United States in response to the possible reinstatement of sanctions by the government of Joe Biden. This threat follows the ratification of the political disqualification of opposition leader Maria Corina Machado by Venezuela's Supreme Court. The Biden administration has begun to reinstate restrictions and has conditioned the easing of sanctions on Venezuela's oil and gas sector on the holding of democratic presidential elections. The situation marks an escalation in tensions between the United States and Venezuela.
Mayor Brandon Johnson Delays Chicago Migrant Shelter Stay Deadline
La Raza - January 30, 2024
Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson has postponed enforcement of a 60-day limit for asylum seekers living in city-run shelters, delaying the first evictions until March. This decision gives immigrants more time to process their work authorization and find housing. City officials will begin regular check-ins with immigrants before they reach the 60-day mark, seeking to find them permanent housing. Johnson emphasized that the temporary emergency shelter plan was not a long-term housing solution, but seeks to give immigrants enough time to start a new life in Chicago.
Chicago immigrant shelter stay time extended
Univision News - January 30, 2024
Univision Noticias video reports on the extension of time to stay in immigrant shelters in Chicago. Immigrants who were scheduled to leave the shelters between January 16 and February 29 can now stay an additional 60 days. In addition, those scheduled to leave between March 1 and March 28 will receive a 30-day extension.
Chicago's Mayor Postpones Eviction of Immigrants from Shelters
Chicago Tribune - January 30, 2024
Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson has announced that he will not enforce a planned deadline to begin removing new arrivals from city-run shelters. This action is postponed until the end of March, extending the shelter stay policy based on original departure dates. Immigrants who originally had a departure date between Jan. 16 and Feb. 29 will receive a 60-day extension, while those with departure dates between March 1 and March 28 will receive a 30-day extension. Johnson mentioned that Chicago has been especially generous compared to other sanctuary cities and is working with faith-based groups, donors and other levels of government to find housing solutions. The resettlement effort costs the city $1.5 million each day and has been a burden on the city, requiring federal support.
Chicago Aldermen Focus on Immigrant Work Authorizations, Not Housing Conditions
Chicago Tribune - January 30, 2024
At a recent hearing, Chicago aldermen focused on the slowness of federal authorities in granting immigrants the right to seek work, rather than addressing conditions in immigrant shelters. Despite complaints about living conditions in the shelters, the discussion focused on the bureaucratic aspects of work authorization. City officials introduced a complaint system for immigrants and staff to report shelter problems, with an average of 55 complaints per day in January. The hearing was called after reports of unsanitary conditions in shelters, including an incident where a child died. Councilmembers have limited access to shelters and must give 48 hours' notice before visiting them.
How the ordeal of a family separated by the immigration system came to an end
Telemundo News - January 30, 2024
The case of Gloria Arellano, who suffered a 14-year family separation while attempting to renew her visa in Mexico, reflects the complexities and challenges of the U.S. immigration system for binational families. This story highlights the severe impact of immigration policies on family unity and the urgent need for reforms to prevent future tragedies.
International students in the U.S. continue to bear the brunt of pandemic effects
Voice of America - January 30, 2024
This Voice of America video addresses the additional challenges faced by international students at U.S. universities due to the pandemic. It focuses on the impact on the mental health of these students and how the pandemic has affected generations of international college students.
Border Patrol counted fewer migrants in El Paso, Texas by the end of 2023
Voice of America - January 30, 2024
This Voice of America video reports a decrease in migration flow to the New Mexico-West Texas border, observed by the Border Patrol by the end of 2023. Voz de America's Paula Diaz accompanies the Border Patrol and personally observes the reduction in irregular crossings.
Operation carried out to rescue human trafficking victims
Telemundo News - January 30, 2024
Telemundo News reports a major operation against human trafficking, resulting in more than 500 arrests. Among those arrested are at least 40 suspected sex traffickers or exploiters, and 271 people suspected of attempting to pay for sex. This operation represents a significant effort in the fight against human trafficking and sexual exploitation.
Ordinances approved to regulate street vendors in Los Angeles
Telemundo News - January 30, 2024
Telemundo News reports the approval of new ordinances in Los Angeles to regulate street vendors. The first provision establishes the requirements and fees that food vendors must meet to obtain permits from the Department of Public Health. The second ordinance focuses on the parameters for vending in unincorporated areas of the county.
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.
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.
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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