Tensions are rising again between migrant communities in Miami and other cities, following the latest messages from the United States government.
Many fear that several decisions, still in the process of being adjusted, could affect permanent residents, visa applicants, and people with open cases before USCIS.
On digital platforms, lawyers and immigration aid organizations warn that there are changes in case analysis and in the criteria for approving benefits, especially for citizens of certain countries.
New signs following USCIS statements
In its latest communications, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services indicated a more rigorous review of immigration benefits. The agency's director, Joseph Edlow, reiterated that they will evaluate "to the fullest extent possible" every case involving foreign nationals from countries considered sensitive by the government.
The stance comes after the shooting in Washington, D.C., attributed to an Afghan national, an event that prompted a series of presidential orders aimed at tightening immigration controls. Since then, the government has insisted on a thorough review of residency applications, asylum cases, and petitions that rely on discretionary criteria.
Cubans, Venezuelans and other nationalities on the concern listcupation
Among the countries singled out in the presidential proclamation is Cuba, classified as a “state sponsor of terrorism,” as well as Venezuela, Iran, Yemen, Syria, and other nations with which Washington maintains diplomatic tensions. For Cubans in Miami, the announcement raised alarms, especially among those who have already received residency or are close to completing the process.
The proclamation also mentions that the Havana government “has historically refused to accept the return of its nationals subject to deportation.” This statement, included by USCIS in its memorandum, raises questions about how the new reviews will be applied to cases already approved or pending.
What would happen to the green cards that have already been issued?
USCIS has not detailed what specific changes could affect permanent residents current. The agency indicates that it will examine specific factors by nationality, including identity documents issued by each country, the ability to verify them, and the background information recorded in each file.
In the United States, there are already precedents for revoking benefits when ties are detected with government agencies, military structures, or activities deemed incompatible with the country's interests. Lawyers consulted note that these decisions, although infrequent, can occur if USCIS determines that the information submitted was incomplete or if the risk criteria change.
Warnings about the use of visitor visas
The State Department also released a separate message regarding the proper use of B1 and B2 visa categories. On social media, the agency reminded the public that these visas allow for tourism, vacations, shopping, business meetings, and conference attendance.
At the same time, it clarified that they do not authorize working, studying for academic credits, or traveling to give birth with the intention of the baby obtaining citizenship. According to the notice, consular officials may deny applications if they believe the applicant will not comply with these rules.
More announcements from President Trump
President Donald Trump added statements that increased the climate of uncertainty. In his recent messages, he promised to permanently halt migration from the so-called “Third World.” He asserted that he would order expulsar “anyone who is not a net asset to the United States” and that could withdraw citizenship from those who “undermine domestic peace.”
The president also insisted that his administration would cancel all “illegal admissions” approved during the previous administration, including those signed automatically.
List of countries under special review
According to the presidential proclamation published in June, the rigorous review applies to citizens of 19 countries: Afghanistan, Myanmar, Chad, Republic of Congo, Equatorial Guinea, Eritrea, Haiti, Iran, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, Yemen, Burundi, Cuba, Laos, Sierra Leone, Togo, Turkmenistan and Venezuela.
The impact already being felt in Miami
In counties like Miami-Dade and Broward, immigration lawyers have received an increase in inquiries from Cubans and Venezuelans concerned about immigration.cupThey are concerned about the possibility of further reviews. Some fear delays in family petitions, status adjustments, or document renewals.
The most repeated recommendation is to keep all documentation up to date and retain proof of purchase. entry and exit from the country and to prevent any misuse of visas, permits, or benefits.