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- Mexico Implements Safe Mobility Pathway for Migrants with CBP One Appointments
Mexico implements a safe mobility pathway for migrants with CBP One appointments, facilitating their transfer from the southern border to the U.S. to apply for asylum. In an effort to improve the management and safety of migrants seeking asylum in the United States, the Mexican government has announced the creation of an "Emergency Safe Mobility Corridor." This initiative aims to transport migrants from Mexico's southern border who have a scheduled appointment through the U.S. Customs and Border Protection's CBP One application. What Does the Safe Mobility Pathway Involve? The route, announced by the Ministry of the Interior (Segob) and the National Institute of Migration (INM), is designed to facilitate the safe and orderly transport of migrants in the states of Chiapas and Tabasco, on Mexico's southern border. These migrants will receive ground transportation to the U.S. border, accompanied by federal, state, and municipal security institutions to ensure their protection during the journey. Migrants can schedule their appointment with CBP One from southern Mexico. Since the implementation of this measure, it has been reported that around 300 migrants who scheduled their appointment through the 'CBP One' application in Tabasco and Chiapas received a response to their request in just a few days. This process not only speeds up the appointment management but also ensures that migrants safely reach their entry point to the United States. The Mexican government has indicated that the departure points will be the Villahermosa Migratory Station in Tabasco and the South Zone Migration Regulation office in Tapachula, Chiapas. During the journey, migrants will receive food, and they will be provided with a Multiple Migration Form (FMM), granting them regular status for 20 days, allowing them to remain in Mexico legally during that time. At Legal en USA, we are here to help you. Our team of immigration attorneys has the experience and knowledge necessary to guide you through every step of the process. From preparing your case to legal representation, we are committed to ensuring that you receive the best possible advice. Keep Safety at the Forefront The new safe mobility pathway not only aims to facilitate the transportation of migrants but also to protect their safety during the journey. With the U.S. presidential elections around the corner, this policy responds to growing pressure to manage the migration flow more efficiently and reduce congestion at the border. While this measure is an important step toward a more orderly process, it does not eliminate the need to be well-prepared for what follows once you arrive in the United States. Having an immigration lawyer by your side will help you address any challenges that arise and ensure that your rights are protected. Do you need help with your immigration case? Don't wait until it's too late to seek help. If you're in the process of applying for asylum in the United States, or if you have questions about how to proceed once you arrive, Legal en USA is here to support you. Contact us today for a consultation to ensure you're making the best decisions for your future. This new pathway is a significant opportunity for many migrants, but like any immigration process, it's crucial to be well-informed and prepared. Our team at Legal en USA is ready to assist you every step of the way, from your arrival to the resolution of your case.
- What is Adjustment of Status?
Adjustment of Status is the procedure that allows individuals already in the United States to apply for legal permanent residency, also known as a Green Card. Through this process, applicants can become permanent residents without having to leave the United States to complete the visa process in their home country. Tabla de Contenido What is Adjustment of Status? What are the pathways for adjusting status? Family Based Petition Employment Based Petitions Refugees and Asylees Diversity Visas Special Visa Holders Cuban Adjustment Act Contact an immigration attorney. Adjustment of Status is the process through which a foreign national who is legally present in the United States, such as on a non-immigrant visa, TPS, or as a beneficiary of an approved family petition, applies to change their immigration status to legal permanent resident (Green Card holder) without having to leave the country. This process involves filing Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status, with the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), along with the required documentation and payment of the applicable fees. If the application is approved, the applicant receives a Green Card and becomes a legal permanent resident of the United States. It is important to meet all requirements and procedures correctly and follow the instructions provided by USCIS during the adjustment of status process. What are the pathways for adjusting status? There are different pathways to adjust status in the United States, which may vary depending on each individual case. Here, we explain some of the options for adjusting status. Through Family Petition Immediate relatives of U.S. citizens or permanent residents, such as spouses, unmarried children under 21, and parents (if the citizen is at least 21 years old), can be petitioned by their family member to obtain permanent residency. Through Employment There are various employment-based visas, including categories such as individuals with extraordinary skills, professionals with advanced degrees, religious workers, and certain investors. Refugees and Asylees Refugees and asylees can apply for adjustment of status one year after their admission or grant of asylum in the United States. Diversity Immigrants (Visa Lottery) Winners of the Diversity Visa Lottery who are in the United States can adjust their status. Special Visa Holders This includes holders of K visas (fiancés and spouses of U.S. citizens) and V visas (certain relatives of permanent residents). Cuban Adjustment Act Cuban nationals who have been present in the United States for at least one year may be eligible to adjust their status. Each of these pathways has specific requirements and detailed processes that must be followed carefully to ensure a successful transition to legal permanent residency. It is advisable to consult with an immigration attorney to determine the best adjustment of status route based on your personal situation and current immigration status
- USCIS Begins Accepting Applications for Parole in Place: Everything You Need to Know.
USCIS has started accepting online applications for Parole in Place through Form I-131F. August 19, 2024, marks an important date for many families in the United States. USCIS has begun accepting applications for Parole in Place, a crucial benefit aimed at spouses and children of U.S. citizens who wish to regularize their immigration status without having to leave the country. What is Parole in Place? Parole in Place is an immigration tool that allows certain immediate family members of U.S. military members, as well as other U.S. citizens, to obtain special permission to legally remain in the country. Although temporary, this permission provides a significant solution for those who might otherwise face deportation or family separation. Application Process for Parole in Place: Key Points Here’s a breakdown of the most important aspects you need to know about the application process: 1. Online Application Submission: Starting August 19, 2024, Form I-131F , required to apply for Parole in Place, can only be completed and submitted online through the USCIS website. It's crucial to note that applications sent by postal mail will not be accepted. 2. Filing Fee: The cost to submit Form I-131F is $580 . USCIS has clarified that no fee waivers or reductions will be offered for this application, so it's important to be prepared to cover this cost when submitting your application. 3. One Application Per Person: Each applicant, regardless of age, must submit a separate Form I-131F . This means that if you are a U.S. citizen applying for parole in place for your spouse and children, you will need to complete an individual application for each of them. Additionally, each applicant must have their own USCIS online account. 4. Required Documentation: As you complete the online form, the USCIS system will automatically indicate which additional documents you need to provide to support your application. This process helps ensure that you don't miss any essential documents. 5. Biometric Appointment: After submitting the application, beneficiaries will need to attend a biometric appointment at a USCIS-designated center. During this appointment, fingerprints and other biometric information will be collected for security and verification purposes. 6. Approval and Parole Documentation: If your application is approved, the non-citizen spouse or stepchild will receive a Form I-94 , which will serve as proof of their permission to remain in the country (parole). 7. Important Travel Warning: It’s crucial to understand that Form I-94 does not authorize reentry into the United States after leaving the country. If someone who has received parole in place leaves the U.S. without first obtaining an Advance Parole document, they will automatically lose their parole status and may not be able to return to the country. Parole in Place offers a valuable opportunity for the spouses and children of U.S. citizens who need to regularize their immigration status without leaving the United States. However, it's crucial to carefully follow each step of the application process to ensure a successful submission. If you have questions or need assistance with your application, we recommend contacting an immigration attorney who can guide you through this process.
- How many asylum cases have been processed in recent years?
Immigration courts have been overloaded with cases in the last decade as a consequence of the large wave of migration that the country has faced. This has resulted in a huge backlog in processing applications. Have you ever wondered why there is such a backlog in asylum cases? The answer lies in the high number of new applications processed each year. In the last decade, the number of people seeking refuge and protection has increased exponentially, overwhelming the capacity of immigration courts and agencies. As a result, the backlog of cases has grown exponentially, leaving thousands of people in limbo, waiting for their fate to be decided. In this article, we will explore the statistics of asylum cases processed in the last 10 years. According to data provided by the TRAC (Transactional Record Access Clearinghouse) at Syracuse University, in the last decade (from Fiscal Year 2014 to April 2024), 1,047,134 asylum applications from immigrants with deportation cases have been processed. Of that more than one million applications, 685,956 immigrants were allowed to remain in the United States, either because they received approvals for their asylum cases or under other forms of cancellation of removal. On the other hand, 332,552 were placed in deportation proceedings, and the remaining 28,626 left the United States voluntarily. These figures indicate that 66% of immigrants who applied for asylum were admitted to the country, while only 34% were placed in removal proceedings. How many asylum cases are pending in 2024? Currently, in the fiscal year 2024, there are more than 1 million pending asylum cases. Of this total, 178,709 are in Florida courts, making it the state with the highest number of unprocessed asylum applications in court. Pending asylum cases in Florida by nationality. (Source: TRAC Immigration) Cuba 52,775 Venezuela 37,354 Haiti 17,697 Nicaragua 13,177 Honduras 11,856 Guatemala 11,359 Colombia 10,964 Otros 23,527 Importance of Legal Representation in Your Asylum Case The majority of won asylum cases have had legal representation, with over a 90% success rate. However, a concerning issue is that the search for legal representation has decreased, which can significantly affect the chances of success in your case, as the applicant faces a higher risk of deportation or denial of their case. For example, it is known that in April 2024, only 14% of immigrants with court hearings to defend their asylum had a lawyer representing them. This is due to various factors, primarily economic considerations, and then the lack of awareness about the importance of going through the process without legal guidance. That is why at Legal en USA, we always offer our assistance and ensure the best advice; you just need to call us at 305-446-8686. Our immigration services are at your disposal.
- The naturalization processes are being expedited in preparation for the presidential elections.
The naturalization processes are currently relatively quick. In almost five months, applicants can complete their process and receive their certificate of naturalization. With the 2024 presidential elections quickly approaching in the United States, many permanent residents who already meet the requirements for citizenship are seriously considering taking this crucial step. Becoming a U.S. citizen not only allows them to participate in the electoral process but also opens the doors to other significant benefits. One of the biggest incentives for obtaining citizenship is undoubtedly the right to vote. Being part of the presidential election and having the opportunity to influence the future of the country is a privilege that many immigrants deeply value. But citizenship not only gives you the ability to vote; it also offers a range of additional benefits. For example, citizens have access to more job opportunities, can travel with a U.S. passport, and can sponsor close family members to immigrate to the United States. Additionally, citizens are protected against deportation and enjoy all constitutional rights, including the right to fully participate in the civic life of the country. The naturalization process is currently relatively quick. In about five months, applicants can complete their process and receive their naturalization certificate. This short waiting time is motivating many to take action now, ensuring they can vote in the upcoming elections. For any immigration process, including naturalization, it is vital to have the guidance of a specialist to avoid mistakes that could delay your application. At Legal en USA, we are here to help you achieve your dream of becoming a U.S. citizen. Our team is available to answer any questions and support you every step of the way. Don't miss the opportunity to make history in 2024!
- More than 2,300 Cubans Win the 2025 Visa Lottery: What to Do Now?
Thousands of Cubans were selected for the 2025 visa lottery. This program allows them to apply for an immigrant visa, and they should not waste time in submitting their applications. The U.S. Department of State has announced that 2,348 Cubans were winners of the 2025 Visa Lottery. This annual program provides a unique opportunity to obtain an immigrant visa and start a new life in the United States. The fortunate selected individuals will be able to begin the process of applying for their visas starting October 1, 2024, and will have until September 30, 2025, to enter the country. Winners will receive a notification letter detailing the next steps to follow. It is essential that they carefully follow the provided instructions, as any mistakes could delay or even invalidate their opportunity to obtain the visa. One of the first steps will be to complete the DS-260 form online, a crucial requirement to advance in the process. In addition to completing the necessary documentation, principal applicants will need to prepare for an interview in which they must demonstrate that they meet the established educational or work requirements. Specifically, they must prove that they have completed secondary education or its equivalent, or have two years of work experience in an occupation that requires at least two years of training or experience in the past five years. It is important to highlight that, although they were winners of the lottery, not all selected individuals will have a visa available. Therefore, it is crucial that winners do not waste time in their process and consider seeking advice from a specialist to ensure that they meet all the requirements and maximize their chances of success. If you are one of the lucky winners, do not let this opportunity pass you by. Prepare well and make sure to follow all the necessary steps to turn this dream into reality.
- More than 100,000 Cubans Benefited from the Humanitarian Parole Program
Since the implementation of the humanitarian parole program by the United States government in January 2023, more than 100,000 Cubans have received approval to emigrate to the United States. This initiative, aimed at facilitating legal and safe migration, has provided new opportunities for thousands of Cubans seeking a better life in the U.S. According to recent data from the Customs and Border Protection (CBP) office, as of May 2024, 100,500 Cubans have been approved under this program. Of these, 98,200 have already made the journey and have legally entered the United States. This travel permit is valid for 90 days, allowing some beneficiaries to plan their trip with a bit of time after receiving approval. In April, the number of Cubans who had entered the country was 91,000, indicating that in just one month, more than 7,000 Cubans made the journey to the United States, highlighting the significance and positive reception of this program. Impact of Humanitarian Parole on Other Communities Although the Cuban community has been one of the beneficiaries, the majority of approvals for the humanitarian parole program have been granted to the Haitian community. In the 17 months since the program began, 193,400 applications from Haitian citizens have been approved, of which 177,100 have legally entered the United States, representing nearly 42% of the total beneficiaries. Additionally, the program has approved applications for 87,800 Nicaraguans and 113,400 Venezuelans. Of these, approximately 80,700 Nicaraguans and 106,100 Venezuelans have arrived in the United States and have been granted parole by a CBP officer at the border. Humanitarian Parole Program: Objectives and Procedures The humanitarian parole program, implemented by the Biden Administration, aims to provide a safe and orderly path for migration. In this way, it seeks to reduce dangerous journeys and human trafficking, which have caused so many tragedies in the past. To participate in this program, interested individuals must complete and submit Form I-134A (Declaration of Financial Support) through the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) website. A fundamental requirement is to have a sponsor in the United States who can guarantee their financial support during their stay in the country. The humanitarian parole program has proven to be an effective tool for facilitating the legal and safe migration of citizens from Cuba, Venezuela, Haiti, and Nicaragua. By providing a viable and legal alternative, the program helps thousands of people avoid the dangers associated with irregular migration. If you have questions about how this program could benefit you or if you want more information about other immigration options, Legal en USA, an immigration law office in Miami, is here to help you. Our team of experts is available to provide you with the best advice and assistance on immigration matters. Call us at 305-446-8686 for a personalized consultation.
- Parole In Place: What Makes You Ineligible?
Crimes committed in your past can make you ineligible for the 'parole in place' announced by the White House. However, having a criminal record does not automatically exclude you. On August 19, 2024, a key date will arrive for immigrants seeking to regularize their status in the United States. The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) will begin accepting applications for the Parole In Place program, a crucial option for spouses of U.S. citizens and their minor children under 21 who entered the country without legal admission. This program targets immigrants who have lived continuously in the United States for at least ten years prior to June 17, 2024, and who have been married to a U.S. citizen since before that date. Additionally, applicants must demonstrate good moral character, which is reflected in a clean criminal history. However, having a criminal record does not automatically disqualify an applicant, but it is essential to carefully review these records with an immigration attorney, as certain crimes may impact eligibility for this benefit. It is important to note that the application process for *Parole In Place* is complex, and any mistakes can jeopardize not only the application but also the possibility of adjusting status in the future. While there is no specific list of crimes that automatically disqualify an applicant, crimes reflecting a lack of moral character, felonies, or those that cannot be forgiven through a 601A waiver could complicate the process. Therefore, if you have a criminal record, it is vital to seek the advice of an immigration attorney before submitting your application. An attorney can analyze your case in detail, determine if you qualify for Parole In Place, and help you avoid potential legal complications that could lead to deportation in the future. At Legal en USA, under the direction of immigration attorney Eduardo Soto, we are here to guide you every step of the way in your immigration process. If you have questions or need assistance applying for *Parole In Place*, do not hesitate to contact us at 305-446-8686. We are ready to help you protect your future and that of your family.
- Humanitarian Parole Program Temporarily Suspended
The Humanitarian Parole program has been temporarily suspended; consequently, no travel permits have been approved since mid-July, and the process will remain on hold until further notice. The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has announced the temporary suspension of the humanitarian parole program, which allows the admission of up to 360,000 people per year from Haiti, Venezuela, Nicaragua, and Cuba. This measure affects those seeking work or asylum in the country. The Biden administration announced the pause following an internal report that indicated potential cases of fraud. The program, known as "parole," is fundamental to the government's strategy to reduce illegal crossings at the southern border by providing a legal pathway for migrants to enter the country. However, DHS officials decided to halt the admission process for new applicants while additional security checks are implemented for U.S. residents acting as sponsors. The Department of Homeland Security takes any abuse of its processes very seriously and has temporarily paused the issuance of advance travel authorizations for new beneficiaries as a precaution. The goal is to review the sponsors' applications and resume processing applications as soon as possible with the appropriate safeguards in place. Despite the pause, DHS clarified that the nearly 500,000 beneficiaries already admitted under the program will not be affected, as they have undergone background checks. The suspension began in mid-July after an internal report identified issues such as multiple applications from a single sponsor. Currently, applications for the "parole" program are still being accepted online, but they are not being approved temporarily. The "parole" program was initiated in 2022 for Venezuela and expanded last year to include Haiti, Nicaragua, and Cuba. The initiative aims to provide a legal pathway for migrants to enter the United States instead of risking their lives on dangerous journeys to the southern border. Beneficiaries of the program can stay and work in the United States for up to two years, provided they have a sponsor who supports them financially and both pass background checks. Although the program has been deemed an immediate success by federal officials and has contributed to a significant decrease in illegal crossings, it has faced criticism. Republican lawmakers and groups advocating for reduced immigration have expressed concerns about the verification process and the high approval rate of applications, which was 98% in the first year. DHS has not specified how long the pause will last, but it is expected to be short. Meanwhile, the Biden administration continues to defend the program, highlighting its effectiveness in managing immigration in an orderly and safe manner.
- These documents will demonstrate your eligibility for Parole In Place.
The spouses of American citizens who are still unlawfully in the United States can now begin gathering the documentation to submit their applications for Parole In Place next month. The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has announced that they will begin accepting applications for Parole In Place on August 19, 2024. Any application submitted before this date will be rejected. Although applications cannot be submitted until that date, it is crucial for interested individuals to start gathering the necessary documents to demonstrate their eligibility for the Parole In Place program. Documents That Can Serve as Evidence to Apply for Parole In Place Evidence of a legal marriage to a U.S. citizen contracted before June 17, 2024: - Marriage certificate. Proof of identity: - Driver's license from the state of residence, even if expired. - Birth certificate. - Valid passport, among others. Evidence of the U.S. citizenship of your spouse: - Passport. - Birth certificate. - Certificate of naturalization. Documentation demonstrating your continuous presence in the United States for a minimum of 10 years before June 17, 2024. Some examples include: - Rental contracts for housing or commercial properties. - Utility payment receipts. - School records. - Medical records. - Letters from religious institutions confirming your participation in ceremonies. - Money transfer receipts within or outside the United States. - Birth certificates of children born in the United States. - Property titles and auto insurance. - Property titles or mortgages for homes acquired during this time. - Insurance policies. - Tax returns from all these years. These documents are examples and are not the only ones accepted; more details will be provided on the official USCIS platforms. A specialized attorney can guide you in obtaining these documents. At Legal en USA, we are ready to help you. Evidence for Minor Children of Applicants Minor children of applicants may also apply, and evidence for their eligibility may include: Birth certificate or adoption decree demonstrating the relationship with the non-citizen parent. Marriage certificate of the non-citizen parent to their U.S. citizen spouse. Evidence of the minor's physical presence in the United States before June 17, 2024. If you need legal advice for your process, Legal en USA is ready to help you prepare all the necessary documentation so that you are ready to submit your application as soon as it is allowed. We are just a call away at 305-446-8686. Contact us and make sure you are one of the first to submit your application!