Immigration lawyers are advising Cubans and Venezuelans who are permanent residents in the United States to refrain from traveling abroad amid potential entry bans being considered by the Trump administration. This measure, which may impact around 43 countries, includes Cuba and Venezuela, potentially jeopardizing the return of permanent residents from these countries to the U.S. after Saturday, March 22.
A report by The New York Times suggests that the Trump administration is crafting a new visa restriction policy, possibly broader than the 2017 order that did not affect permanent residents. However, it's still uncertain if those with permanent residency will be impacted by this new measure, creating anxiety within the Cuban and Venezuelan communities in the U.S.
Armando Olmedo, an immigration lawyer with Televisa Univision, has advised Cubans and Venezuelans with planned international trips to delay their travel plans. "The recommendation here is if someone is Cuban or Venezuelan and a permanent resident, and has a trip planned abroad, hold off; the waters are a bit murky," Olmedo stated.
According to The New York Times, the list of restrictions categorizes nations into three tiers: red, orange, and yellow. Cuba and Venezuela fall into the red tier, which means more severe restrictions. This category includes those with a complete entry ban, potentially having a significant impact on Cubans and Venezuelans in the U.S.
Olmedo also urged those currently outside the country to return as soon as possible. "If you're Cuban or Venezuelan and have a trip planned to the U.S., do it as soon as possible before the order is issued, because once it is, entry will be impossible," he added.
The deadline for the final order is Friday, March 21, when the State Department is expected to release detailed information about the entry restrictions to the U.S.
This potential policy has sparked concern among the Cuban and Venezuelan communities, especially in South Florida, which has a significant diaspora from both countries. Republican congressmen from the area, such as Mario Díaz-Balart, María Elvira Salazar, and Carlos Giménez, might face pressure from constituents as the ban would directly affect their communities.
Trump's plan has drawn criticism from some lawyers and former prosecutors, who argue that the lack of exemptions in the new policy could lead to legal challenges. David Weinstein, a former state and federal prosecutor from Miami-Dade, noted that Cuban and Venezuelan immigrants might claim the measure infringes on their fundamental rights by unfairly impacting their families and loved ones.
Despite the backlash, the Trump administration remains steadfast in its push for stricter immigration controls, fostering uncertainty about future immigration policies on both a national and international scale.
Understanding U.S. Entry Restrictions for Cubans and Venezuelans
What is the potential impact of the entry ban on permanent residents?
The entry ban could prevent Cuban and Venezuelan permanent residents from returning to the U.S. if they travel abroad after the policy is enacted, leading to significant personal and legal challenges.
How are U.S. immigration lawyers advising affected residents?
Lawyers suggest postponing any international travel plans and advise those abroad to return to the U.S. promptly to avoid complications from the potential ban.
What legal actions are being considered against the proposed policy?
Critics argue that the policy could infringe on fundamental rights, and legal challenges may arise, questioning the fairness and legality of the entry restrictions.