A young Cuban, identified as Luis Alberto Naranjo, recently achieved permanent residency in the United States after a prolonged wait. Having received the I-220A form, his story resonates as a beacon of hope for thousands of Cubans facing similar immigration challenges, marked by uncertainty and fear of deportation.
A Journey Marked by Faith and Determination
Naranjo entered the United States in July 2021 via the southern border, after traveling through multiple countries. Upon arriving at an American port of entry, he was detained for 16 days before being released, and he was never given a court date. Instead, he applied for affirmative asylum.
During the intervening period, he pursued his residency with the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). For over 700 days, he awaited a decision that ultimately came with a phone call: his application under the Cuban Adjustment Act had been approved. "It's indescribable, just pure joy," he shared with Univision journalist Daniel Benítez about the moment he received the news.
Encouragement for Fellow Cubans with I-220A
Naranjo emphasized his exemplary conduct in the U.S., noting that he hasn't even received a traffic ticket. Aware that many compatriots share the same anxiety he once did, he offers a message of encouragement. “To all those with I-220A, be patient, have faith in God, and, above all, do things correctly,” he advised.
Though characterized by a long, anxious wait, his case offers hope to many Cubans in similar circumstances.
Legal Context for I-220A Recipients
Immigration attorneys estimate that approximately half a million Cubans in the U.S. were released with the I-220A document. Like Naranjo, many were never summoned to court, allowing them to seek legal options with USCIS to secure residency.
Attorney Jesús Novo explains that in cases like Naranjo's, there's an argument to be made: being inspected and admitted is one of the requirements of the Cuban Adjustment Act. He also notes a federal ruling that permits Cubans with I-220A, who entered the country within a specific timeframe, to apply under this Act.
Complex Cases and New Detentions
However, not all I-220A migrants have a promising outlook. There are cases of Cubans who did not enter through a port of entry, marked the second box, and have court dates. These individuals face additional challenges.
“These individuals cannot apply with USCIS because the agency lacks jurisdiction to adjudicate their petitions. They face larger issues,” Novo explains. As an alternative, they might attempt to “close that court case, so that USCIS regains jurisdiction,” he suggests.
This complexity is evident in the recent case of four Cuban women with I-220A who were detained on March 10. Among them, Yadira Cantallops and Denise Reyes remain in custody in California, awaiting a judge’s decision on whether they will be granted bond release.
Key Insights on Cuban Immigration Challenges
What is the significance of the I-220A form for Cuban migrants?
The I-220A form is crucial for Cuban migrants as it often allows them to be released while awaiting immigration proceedings, potentially enabling them to apply for residency under the Cuban Adjustment Act without a court date.
How did Luis Alberto Naranjo secure his permanent residency?
Luis Alberto Naranjo secured his permanent residency by applying under the Cuban Adjustment Act, after being released with an I-220A form and maintaining a good record during his wait.
What challenges do other I-220A recipients face?
Other I-220A recipients may face challenges if they have court dates or entered the U.S. without inspection through a port of entry, complicating their ability to apply for residency with USCIS.