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An immigration lawyer in the United States warned that authorities are tightening immigration controls and revoking tourist visas for reasons ranging from minor traffic violations to extended stays in the country.
In statements to Noticias Telemundo, attorney Kathia Quirós explained that tourist and student visas are the ones most affected by recent revocations.
"They are non-immigrant visas, not for people living here, but for those who want to enter the United States," he specified.
According to Quirós, the U.S. government is reviewing the records of visitors who have had any contact with the police, even for traffic fines, and in many cases, they have received notifications that their visas have been canceled.
"If you have had an encounter with the police, it’s even worse. And if you have encountered ICE in any way, that’s even more concerning," the lawyer warned.
Among her recommendations, the specialist urged holders of tourist visas not to remain in U.S. territory for more than 30 days, as longer stays "raise suspicions at this time."
"The main thing is to come and leave as soon as possible. Under current conditions, a tourist visit should not exceed 30 days," Quirós insisted.
The lawyer also pointed out that the financial criteria are becoming stricter, as consulates are only granting visas to those who can demonstrate sufficient financial means to cover the costs of a tourist trip.
"More than 30 countries —including Cuba, Venezuela, and several from Africa— are required to pay bond amounts that ensure the person is only coming for a visit,” he said. In some cases, these bonds can reach up to 15 thousand dollars, he warned.
The new measures are part of the overall tightening of the immigration policy in the United States, which aims to reduce abuses of temporary visas and strengthen controls over those who remain in the country beyond the permitted time.
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