In the United States, thousands of migrants, especially refugees and asylum seekers, find themselves in a legal limbo following the Department of Homeland Security's (DHS) decision to halt permanent residency processing. Cuban immigration attorney Willy Allen has spoken out about the implications of this measure, offering crucial advice to those impacted by this and other migration obstacles set by the current administration.
"At this moment, the residency applications are already in a state of suspension," Allen explained in an interview with America Tevé, highlighting that although the number of Cubans applying for residency through refugee status is low, a significant number apply via asylum. He emphasized that the suspension particularly affects those who were already in the process and had met the necessary requirements.
This action is part of a stricter immigration policy introduced during Donald Trump's administration. Although not publicly announced, it is the direct result of two executive orders that mandate federal agencies to maximize scrutiny and evaluations in all legal status applications in the U.S.
Immediate Steps for Those Affected
Faced with this situation, Allen advises swift action, particularly concerning work permits. "Anyone who applied for residency should have also requested a work permit, which lasts between two and five years. Those needing to renew their permits should expect delays," he noted.
However, he warns that immediate solutions are scarce: "Currently, there's not much one can do about the existing delays, as even federal lawsuits to expedite case decisions can take time." Therefore, his primary advice is to remain calm: "My recommendation is to breathe deeply, wait, and see how the situation unfolds."
Humanitarian Parole and Migrant Uncertainty
Adding to the complexity is the revocation of humanitarian parole, a program that had benefited over half a million migrants from Cuba, Haiti, Nicaragua, and Venezuela. Allen notes that for Cubans, the Cuban Adjustment Act could provide a legal pathway to regularize their status. He believes those who arrived after April of last year should apply for residency when eligible, despite the recent revocation announcement.
"For each of the 26,000 Cubans who entered after last April, I intend to apply for their residency. I believe we should apply and fight," he emphasized.
The Role of I-220A and I-220B Documents
Many affected Cubans entered the U.S. with an I-220A form, indicating they were released on parole pending their migration process. This document does not grant formal legal status but allows for asylum or other immigration benefits applications.
"Cubans holding this document without a court date are not currently affected," the attorney explained. In contrast, the I-220B, issued to those with deferred deportation orders, allows residency under stricter conditions, such as regular ICE check-ins and work limitations.
The lawyer also addressed the arrest of several Cuban women with I-220A who were detained when attending their ICE appointments. "I believe they were detained to send a message, as their detention coincided with the release of the CBP Home application, indicating the government's intent to encourage self-deportation among migrants," he stated.
Allen critiques these actions as part of an intimidation strategy: "Currently, they have given 30 days to those with humanitarian parole to leave the U.S., essentially to self-deport." He remains skeptical about the success of this initiative but acknowledges it as part of the administration's message, hoping migrants will self-deport.
Family Reunification Also at a Standstill
Adding to the list of suspended or revoked processes is family reunification. Allen confirms that this process has also been on hold since January: "Those who entered under the family reunification parole are also experiencing delays and review of their residency."
Conclusion: Persistence, Education, and Action
In this uncertain landscape, attorney Willy Allen's voice serves as a beacon for thousands of migrants: persist, stay informed, and don't let frustration paralyze you. As immigration policies tighten and processes stall due to reviews and investigations, Allen insists on the importance of persistence. "I believe we should apply and fight," he concluded.
Understanding U.S. Immigration Challenges
What is the current status of residency applications for migrants in the U.S.?
Residency applications have been suspended as part of a stricter immigration policy, affecting many migrants, especially those who applied via asylum.
How does the revocation of humanitarian parole impact migrants?
The revocation affects over half a million migrants, including those from Cuba. It complicates their legal status in the U.S., although options like the Cuban Adjustment Act may offer alternative pathways.
What are the differences between the I-220A and I-220B documents?
The I-220A form indicates release on parole without formal legal status, allowing for asylum applications. The I-220B is for those with deferred deportation, imposing stricter residency conditions.