The United States government has issued a stark warning that could impact thousands of individuals with approved visas, including many Cubans. This warning emphasizes that having a visa does not guarantee entry into the country or the ability to stay.
In an announcement shared on its official account on the social media platform X, the State Department stated, "The U.S. visa vetting process does not conclude after issuance. We continually monitor visa holders to ensure they comply with all U.S. immigration laws and regulations. Failure to do so will result in visa revocation and deportation."
This announcement came just a day after the case of Juana Orquídea Acanda Rodríguez was reported. The 62-year-old former Cuban judge was detained at Miami International Airport on March 20, having arrived with an immigrant visa processed by her U.S. citizen son.
Journalist Mario J. Pentón reported that Acanda concealed her active membership in the Communist Party of Cuba (PCC) and her three-decade-long career within the regime's judicial system during the visa process. Agents from the Customs and Border Protection (CBP) confirmed that she deliberately lied and admitted to making false statements to secure the immigration benefit.
Acanda now faces charges of immigration fraud, misrepresentation, and false documentation, and she will be expelled from the country under section 212(a) of the immigration law.
Her case adds to a growing list of former Cuban regime officials who have attempted to enter or are already in the U.S., often through family reunification programs or humanitarian parole.
The climate of scrutiny was further amplified by statements from the current Secretary of State, Marco Rubio, who spoke firmly in mid-March about the case of Mahmoud Khalil. Khalil, a resident, was involved in pro-Palestinian protests at Columbia University and was arrested after his residency card was revoked.
“Coming to the United States with a visa is a privilege, not a right. The Trump administration is determined to deny or revoke your visa if you're here to support terrorists,” Rubio wrote on X.
Rubio also noted that even green card holders could be deported if found to have engaged in activities threatening national security. “This is not about freedom of speech. It's about people who, fundamentally, do not have the right to be in the United States,” he stated to reporters during a stopover in Ireland after visiting Saudi Arabia.
Essential Guidelines
Those planning to travel to the U.S. should be aware that the immigration system is increasingly vigilant. Authorities recommend the following:
- Be transparent and truthful in applications.
- Strictly adhere to immigration laws.
- Avoid engaging in political or social activities that could be perceived as threats to national security.
- Stay informed through official sources, avoiding rumors or false assurances.
Understanding U.S. Visa Compliance
What happens if a visa holder violates U.S. immigration laws?
If a visa holder is found violating U.S. immigration laws, their visa may be revoked, and they could face deportation.
Are green card holders subject to deportation?
Yes, even green card holders can be deported if they engage in activities that threaten national security.