Increased scrutiny for Cuban Green Card Holders Following New Presidential order
A Cuban resident recently shared a concerning experience upon re-entry to the United States, highlighting a shift in immigration enforcement practices following a new presidential order. The individual, who wished to remain anonymous, reported being subjected to a lengthy and distrustful interrogation by immigration officials.
According to the account, agents specifically focused on verifying recent travel to cuba. “They checked my passport to see if I had entered Cuba in recent days,” the resident stated,adding that he was questioned extensively about his method of entry after crossing the river.He lacked official documentation of his Cuban visit, prompting detailed questioning about the entire crossing process.
The individual expressed feeling unfairly treated during the interview. Following the interrogation, officers reportedly advised him against future international travel, warning that all Green card residences are under review and coudl be suspended “at the discretion of each officer.” He shared his experience to inform othre migrants about the potential for increased scrutiny.
Though,immigration experts clarify that airport officials do not have the authority to unilaterally cancel or revoke a Green Card. Their actions are limited to registering traveler data, asking verification questions, referring cases for further review, or, in extreme circumstances, issuing a subpoena requiring the resident to appear before an immigration judge. cancellation of residency requires a formal legal process through USCIS or an immigration judge.
This testimony aligns with a recent announcement from Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) confirming a review of all Green Cards granted to citizens from 19 nations deemed ”countries of concern,” including Cuba, Venezuela, Afghanistan, Haiti, Iran, Somalia, and Libya. This review, ordered by the current presidential governance, extends to cases approved during the previous administration.
The directive raises the possibility of delays,additional requirements,or even revocation of residency status for thousands of Cubans with Green Cards,nonetheless of how they obtained their status – through family reunification,asylum,political refuge,or humanitarian parole – if authorities identify perceived irregularities.
This policy represents a more aggressive stance on immigration, with the administration promising to eliminate benefits for migrants, potentially suspend migration from certain countries, and implement a “reverse migration” policy. Furthermore, all asylum decisions remain frozen following a recent incident in Washington D.C., leaving thousands of applicants, including Cubans, in legal uncertainty.
The purpose of sharing this experience is not to incite fear, but to alert Cuban residents who travel frequently to be prepared for potentially increased scrutiny while this review is ongoing. As journalist Javier Díaz concluded, this individual’s experience may become increasingly common for Cubans under these new measures, emphasizing the need for caution regarding international travel and reasons for leaving the country.
