The Cuban Yanisley Molina, an energetic woman in her 50s residing in Nashville, Tennessee, turned to social media to seek help from the exile community after months of trying, without success, to find a job in the United States.
In a touching video posted on her TikTok account (@yanisley.molina), she recounted that she arrived in the country in August 2024 through an appointment for the CBP One program, but the recent cancellation of work permits for beneficiaries of this program has left her in a desperate situation.
"I have submitted my resume to millions of places and no one is calling me. I am desperate. I need to move forward and not be a burden anymore," she expressed through tears. Although she has had support from family and friends, she cannot continue to depend on them.
His case reflects the anguish experienced by thousands of Cuban migrants who entered legally through the southern border with the parole granted by CBP One, a program from the Biden administration that has been dismantled under the presidency of Donald Trump.
Since May, Cubans who entered through CBP One began receiving official notifications from the U.S. government informing them about the imminent revocation of their work permits, including applying the measure to those who were already employed, paying taxes, and following the established legal channels.
These immigrants not only risk losing their employment authorization. In some cases, they may face penalties and even deportation proceedings.
Experts have urged affected immigrants to seek urgent legal advice, reminding them that working without a permit does not prevent them from applying for the Cuban Adjustment Act, as long as the formal requirements are met. However, any irregularities or failures to act may have serious consequences.
Yanisley's situation is an example of how this political shift has disrupted the reality of those, like her, who relied on entering the country through legal means to restart their lives in freedom.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Revocation of Work Permits for Cubans in the U.S. under CBP One
Why is the U.S. government revoking the work permits of Cubans who entered with CBP One?
The Donald Trump administration is revoking work permits granted under the CBP One program as part of a more restrictive approach to immigration policy. This measure aims to compel the departure of migrants who entered through this route, citing national security concerns and questioning the validity of previously granted immigration statuses.
What options do Cubans affected by the revocation of work permits have?
Cubans affected can still take advantage of the Cuban Adjustment Act if they meet the requirements of physical presence in the U.S. for one year and one day. It is also recommended to seek immediate legal advice to explore other options, such as political asylum applications, although these processes can be lengthy and complex.
What consequences do Cubans face if they do not act after the revocation of their permits?
Cubans who do not act in a timely manner may face deportation processes and lose the chance to regularize their immigration status in the future. Working without a valid permit could also negatively impact any immigration procedures they initiate later on.
Is it possible for work permits to remain valid for some CBP One beneficiaries?
Work permits can remain valid if the beneficiary maintains a current immigration status, such as an active parole. It is crucial for those affected to review their I-94 and stay alert for any official notifications. If they have not received any revocation notices, their permit may still be valid.
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