The Biden administration recently announced that the United States will now begin to turn away Cubans, Haitians, Venezuelans, and Nicaraguans who illegally cross the U.S.’ southern border due to the sharp increase in migration from these nations. In conjunction with this, the U.S. will offer a legal pathway, accepting 30,000 citizens from these four countries each month for the next two years. This is to go into effect immediately.
Further, asylum will be declined for migrants who pass through a third country, if they do not first try to apply for asylum in the country which they initially pass through. This is an attempt to combat those who are ignoring or manipulating legal pathways, and to revive third-country agreements.
Individuals native to Cuba, Haiti, or Nicaragua may apply for humanitarian parole (the system currently used by refugees from Afghanistan and Ukraine) while they are still abroad. Those who wish to do so may travel by air if they pass the required background checks and have U.S.-based financial sponsors. Under this status, they will be permitted to live in the U.S. temporarily.
Biden Visits El Paso Border Amidst Announcement
Amidst this news, President Joe Biden visited the El Paso border for the first time during his presidency on January 8, 2023. During this trip, he observed the migrant respite center where he spoke with the El Paso border enforcement personnel regarding enforcement issues. No migrants were reported to be at the center during the time of his visit.
Asylum Attorneys
These restrictions could potentially have a major impact on many migrants’ immigration plans. If you or a loved one are seeking safety in the United States it is highly advised you contact an asylum attorney to understand the best course of action for your individual circumstances.
The attorneys at Reeves Immigration Law Group are some of the most trusted and highly-rated immigration attorneys in California. They obtain immigration approvals for their clients daily. From asylum to permanent resident status and U.S. citizenship, our team has the knowledge and experience to personally support you and your immigration needs.
Contact us today to learn more about how these changes will impact your immigration status.
