Understanding the Biden Administration’s New Immigration Policy Changes

 Posted on January 11, 2023 in Immigration

In response to a significant uptick in apprehensions at the U.S.-Mexico border, the Biden Administration has announced a new set of policies aimed at reducing the number of people entering the United States illegally while opening the possibility of entry to many people who are trying to enter legally. If you or one of your loved ones are considering entering the United States, including as an asylum seeker, it is important to understand these changes and to have the help of a Florida immigration attorney. 

“Do Not Just Show Up at the Border”

People from Cuba, Venezuela, Haiti, and Nicaragua who are seeking asylum in the United States will be denied the chance to apply for asylum if they come over the Mexican border illegally rather than at an official port of entry. Those who are apprehended crossing between ports of entry will be sent back to Mexico immediately. 

Warning those who would try to enter, “Do not just show up at the border,” President Biden instead is allowing up to 30,000 applicants every month from the previous four countries to come to the U.S. legally. However, there are specific requirements that must be met, including passing a background check and having a sponsor. 

In addition to these changes, the Biden Administration is sending additional funding and other resources to the southern border, beefing up anti-smuggling and anti-human trafficking operations, giving border cities and NGOs greater financial support, and working closely with Mexico and other countries south of the border to mitigate any negative impacts of the new policies on the lives of those who wish to come to the U.S. 

While the Biden Administration denies that this policy change is comparable to tough-on-illegal immgration policies from the Trump Administration, human rights groups have called the changes a “disgrace.” But for now, those who come into the country without following the proper procedures will be quickly expelled, making it important to understand and follow the new policies. 

Contact an Orlando, FL Immigration Lawyer

Keeping up with U.S. immigration policy can prove very challenging when things change so fast and when there are different policies in play for citizens of different countries. Fortunately, you do not have to manage these changes yourself; with the help of an attorney, you can trust that the law will be followed and that you can get your best shot at American citizenship. Schedule a free consultation with a knowledgeable Orange County, FL immigration attorney with Vasquez Law Firm, PLLC by calling us at 407-955-5000. 

Sources: 

https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefing-room/statements-releases/2023/01/05/fact-sheet-biden-harris-administration-announces-new-border-enforcement-actions/

https://www.nytimes.com/2023/01/05/us/politics/biden-border-crossings.html