The immigration form preparer, Crisceidi Díaz, reported on TikTok that immigration authorities are reopening cases of migrants from Cuba with I-220A that had already been closed, even definitively.
Díaz recounted the recent case of a client in Miami, whose hearing had been definitively closed. However, after a routine appointment with ICE in Miramar, her case was reopened and she has been assigned a new court date for August of this year.
"This is happening too frequently. It's occurring to almost everyone who has an I-220A and still has an appointment with ICE," he warned.
Risk of automatic deportation
Díaz emphasized that these changes can occur without prior notice and that many immigrants are unaware that their cases have been reactivated. If they do not attend the new hearings, a deportation order is automatically issued in their absence.
"They should check the court system, even if it says the information is not available. That is not the same as saying the case does not exist," he explained.
He also clarified the difference between the common messages in the system: “case information unavailable” does not imply that there is no active case, while “no case found” does indicate that there is no open file under that foreign number.
He also emphasized that all individuals with I-220A must keep their address updated with the court, even if their case is closed or does not appear in the system.
" sooner or later they will summon you to court, and you need to be aware of it to be present. This could have serious consequences," he warned those who do not update the information required by the authorities.
Legal context: A recent ruling creates confusion
These alerts come just one week after a ruling issued by the Board of Immigration Appeals (BIA), related to the case Matter of Q. Li, which involves a Chinese immigrant but whose implications could extend to Cuban immigrants with I-220A.
The lawyer Mayron Gallardo explained that, although the case does not directly mention Cuba, it reinforces the current lawsuits against the Department of Homeland Security for the improper processing of certain immigrants, which could, in the future, benefit those who were released without formal parole.
However, Gallardo was emphatic: the ruling does not provide automatic residency nor guarantee parole for Cubans with I-220A. While it represents a potential long-term glimmer of hope, it is neither an immediate nor a widespread solution.
Key recommendation: consult with lawyers
Both Díaz and Gallardo agree that every migration case is unique. Therefore, they recommend consulting with specialized professionals and lawyers. It is very important not to be swayed by interpretations on social media or unfounded rumors.
"Constant surveillance and updating of the status of your case can make the difference between continuing a legal process or receiving a deportation order without even knowing it," concluded Crisceidi Díaz.
Frequently asked questions about the reopening of cases for Cuban immigrants with I-220A in the U.S.
Why are cases of Cuban immigrants with I-220A being reopened?
The cases of Cuban immigrants with I-220A are being reopened by immigration authorities without prior notice, creating a risk of deportation if the newly assigned hearings are not attended. This is happening in the context of stricter immigration policies and recent rulings that affect the legal status of these immigrants.
What does it mean to have an I-220A form?
The I-220A form, known as "Order of Supervision," allows for the release of individuals from federal custody under certain conditions, such as attending immigration hearings. This status is not an official admission into the U.S., leaving beneficiaries in a legally uncertain situation.
What risks do Cubans with an I-220A face if they do not attend their hearings?
If Cubans with an I-220A do not attend their rescheduled hearings, a deportation order will automatically be issued in absentia. This means they can be deported without having had the opportunity to defend their case before an immigration judge.
Can the ruling in the Matter of Q. Li case benefit Cubans with I-220A?
The ruling in the Matter of Q. Li case does not directly mention Cuba, but it may open a potential long-term pathway to regularize the status of Cubans with I-220A. However, it does not provide immediate benefits nor guarantees immigration status adjustment.
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