United States considers travel ban for Cubans, Haitians, and other nationalities: restrictions could be applied soon.
The administration of Donald Trump is considering restrict the entry of Cuban and Haitian citizens as part of a new travel ban that could be announced in the coming weeks. The measure, which is under review, seeks to include both countries on a list of countries with immigration restrictions, similar to that applied in Trump's first term.
According to sources close to the discussions, Cuba could face a total travel ban, while Haiti could be included in a less restrictive version of the measure. The decision is based on the lack of cooperation from both governments in the background check of its citizens, an argument used in previous immigration restrictions.
Since last week, universities and organizations have begun to warn to teachers and students from these countries who return to the United States as soon as possible. They, facing the risk of being stranded if the measure comes into effect. An internal email from the American Association of University Professors recommended to the citizens of these countries avoid leaving the United States. At least until there is more clarity about the new regulations.
The State Department has not yet confirmed the inclusion of Cuba and Haiti in the travel ban, but the White House has ordered its security agencies identify countries with deficiencies in migration verification processesThis review is part of the Executive Order 14161, signed by Trump on January 30, which instructs to assess the security of foreign travelers before their entry into the country.
Cuba and Haiti in Washington's sights
In the case of Cuba, its inclusion in the prohibition would be based on its classification as country sponsoring terrorism. Uthe appointment imposed again by Trump in his first term and reinforced after his return to the White House. In addition, Sanctions and restrictions on the island have increased, including measures against military companies and visa restrictions for Cuban officials.
For Haiti, the security crisis has been a key factor. Gang violence, lack of governmental stability, and the suspension of consular services have made the issuance of U.S. visas difficult. Since the pandemic, the United States Embassy in Port-au-Prince has operated with limitations. And recently, non-essential personnel were evacuated due to the deterioration of security in the country.
Impact of a possible travel ban
If the measure becomes official, citizens of Cuba and Haiti could face restrictions on the issuance of immigrant and non-immigrant visasIn previous versions of the ban, some affected countries could only access limited exemptions, which drastically reduced the possibility of traveling to the United States.
For Cubans, this would add to the existing restrictions, as the United States embassy in Havana It has not issued non-immigrant visas since 2017. Except for exceptions for activists, private entrepreneurs, and humanitarian cases. Although the administration of Joe Biden had resumed the family reunification program, their future is now uncertain.
As for Haiti, thousands of citizens have had difficulties in apply for or renew visas, which has limited their options for legal migration. Added to this is the complex relationship with the United States, which currently funds the security mission led by Kenya to combat gangs in the country.
An exact date for the possible implementation of the travel ban has not yet been announced. But the impact on the migrant community from these countries it could be significantMeanwhile, organizations and immigration lawyers recommend act quickly and avoid leaving the United States until the situation becomes clear.
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Why bother if Trump already announced his law, why are we going to waste energy? He is the one in charge, poor little friends, the Cubans who are...