USCIS is Unreasonably Delaying U Visas, Federal Judge Says

My fellow brave ones! Once again, we are back with the weekly summary of what I believe are the most relevant topics on immigration matters for our community. 

Let us start, and do not miss out on this crucial information! 

The U.S. is Considering New Changes to Expedite Asylum Applications at the Border 

The Biden administration is considering implementing new measures to expedite asylum applications at the U.S. southern border. This proposal aims to resolve these cases within a period not exceeding six months, a timeframe significantly shorter than the current wait time for immigrants. 

The asylum system is overwhelmed with over 3.6 million pending cases and judges handling up to 5,000 applications each. This overload affects the functionality of agencies such as the DHS, ICE, and CBP. The new measure would prioritize immigrants who turn themselves into immigration officers at ports of entry, placing them at the front of the queue, thereby reducing bottlenecks. 

Despite criticism from immigrant advocates, who argue that these policies might complicate their arrival at the border, the administration remains focused on finding ways to improve the system’s efficiency. 

Previous initiatives to speed up asylum screenings by ICE in 45 cities have had limited success, underscoring the urgent need for more effective solutions and additional staff to manage the case backlog. 

Related article: Biden proposes stricter rules for asylum seekers with criminal records 

Federal Judge Says USCIS is Delaying U Visa Applications Unreasonably 

Judge Thomas Whelan of the Southern District of California issued a 12-page opinion arguing the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) is unreasonably delaying the processing of U Visa applications. This crucial document for victims of serious crimes who cooperate with law enforcement not only offers immigration relief but also a pathway to an authorized stay in the country. 

In 2017, several plaintiffs applied for U Visas but claim that their applications have been resolved in favor of more recent submissions. This contradicts USCIS regulations that mandate prioritization of older applications. With only 10,000 of these visas allocated annually, delays can extend for years, significantly affecting the immigration status of the applicants and limiting their ability to progress toward permanent residency or travel abroad. 

The lawsuit targets USCIS for violating the Administrative Procedure Act by alleging these unreasonable delays. In response, Judge Whelan has affirmed the right to claim, suggesting that the court will likely find a remedy for their situation. 

Many have received final decisions on their applications following the lawsuit, indicating a possible shift in USCIS’s handling of pending petitions. However, many applications remain unresolved. The average processing time for U Visas at service centers is currently 59.5 months, nearly five years. 

Continue reading: New USCIS policy extends work permits: 800,000 immigrants relieved. 

The United States Strengthens Immigration Policy Against Exploitation of Migrants 

The United States has recently implemented visa restrictions targeted at executives of maritime transportation companies accused of facilitating irregular migration and the exploitation of migrants during their journey north. Reports indicate that these companies have been involved in activities that expose migrants to exploitative conditions and violence, issues that U.S. authorities are determined to eradicate. 

These restrictions, announced by the State Department, are part of a broader initiative to prevent those involved from benefiting from the vulnerability of migrants. This effort is based on the Immigration and Nationality Act and specifically targets senior officials of these companies, setting a significant legal precedent in U.S. immigration policy. 

Moreover, this policy replaces a previous regulation related to Nicaragua, established in November 2023, reflecting a renewed and broader focus on combating irregular migration. However, with the reduction of legitimate transportation options, migrants may be forced to resort to more dangerous routes or less scrupulous traffickers, increasing the risks of exploitation, abuse, and violence. 

For this reason, immigrants should consider legal alternatives to adjust their status, such as seeking legal counsel to assess their situation and explore the options that may include better opportunities for employment, education, and stability in the country. 

Continue reading: U.S. Government Rolls Out a Key Policy to Protect Migrant Minors 

La Lupa Electoral – Is the Health of Latinos at Risk in This Presidential Election? 

Amid a tightly contested presidential election, Joe Biden’s reelection campaign aims to capture the Latino vote with the launch of “Dime Con Quién,” a new ad targeted at this community. 

This advertisement seeks to warn about the significant health risks Latinos would face should Donald Trump return to power, including the potential loss of health insurance for approximately 4.3 million Latinos and rising costs of insurance and medications. 

The advertisement showcases the benefits achieved under the Biden administration, highlighting that over 75% of Latinos now have medical coverage. It also emphasizes that during his term, the cost of medicine has been reduced, and prices for other essentials, such as insulin, have been capped, providing quality and affordable healthcare for Latino families. 

Finally, the campaign also invites Latinos to reflect on the importance of choosing the right leader in these elections, stressing that the decision is politically crucial and essential for the survival and well-being of Latino communities in terms of access to healthcare. 

Continue reading: Significant Progress in U.S. Immigration Policy: Legal Support for Mixed-Status Couples 

This was the most relevant immigration news this week. See you next Friday. 

Stay current on immigration matters, proposals, new laws, and benefits for our immigrant community. 

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