U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services announced (PDF, 317.28 KB) today that any Form I-693, Report of Medical Examination and Immunization Record, that was properly completed and signed by a civil surgeon on or after November 1, 2023, does not expire and can be used indefinitely as evidence that the applicant is not inadmissible on health-related grounds.

In consultation with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and based on advances in electronic public health notification, USCIS has determined that the value of Form I-693 as evidence should not be limited to a certain period if it has been properly completed and signed by a civil surgeon on or after November 1, 2023. USCIS officers have the discretion to request additional evidence or a new or updated Form I-693 if they have reason to believe that the applicant’s medical condition has changed since the civil surgeon signed the Form I-693, or that the submitted Form I-693 does not accurately reflect the applicant’s medical condition and the applicant may be inadmissible on health-related grounds.

If an applicant’s immigration medical examinations were completed prior to November 1, 2023, the above policy still applies. Prior to November 1, 2023, civilian physicians did not need to share or report certain information to CDC electronically. USCIS has consulted with CDC and has determined that a Form I-693 duly completed and signed by a civil surgeon prior to November 1, 2023, continues to retain evidentiary value for two years from the date of the civil surgeon’s signature, with the exception of Forms I-693 filed by individuals who are paroled under Operation Welcome Allies, whose Forms I-693, through policy and in consultation with the CDC, retain their evidentiary value for three years from the date of the civil surgeon’s signature. For additional information, see the USCIS Policy Manual, Volume 8, Part B, Chapter 4.

For additional information, see the updated guidance in the USCIS Policy Manual.

The VAWA (Violence Against Women Act) Visa is a crucial resource for victims of domestic violence seeking safety and stability in the United States. In this article, we’ll walk you through the VAWA Visa application process and explain the benefits it offers.

VAWA Visa Requirements

To be eligible for the VAWA Visa, you must meet certain requirements. You must show that you are a victim of physical, sexual, or mental abuse by a U.S. citizen or permanent resident spouse, or that you are the child of an abusive spouse, including parental child abuse. You must also demonstrate good moral character and be willing to cooperate with authorities in the investigation and prosecution of the abuser.

Application Process

The VAWA Visa application process begins with the filing of Form I-360, VAWA Petition. This form should be accompanied by evidence and evidence that supports your case, such as police reports, medical records, and affidavits. Once the petition is filed, a thorough review will be conducted by the immigration authorities.

Benefits of the VAWA Visa

The VAWA Visa offers several benefits to its beneficiaries. These include the ability to obtain legal immigration status in the United States, eligibility to apply for a work permit , and the ability to apply for permanent residency after a certain amount of time. In addition, the VAWA Visa gives you the opportunity to live free from violence and abuse, and to build a safe and stable future in the United States.

Final Recommendation

Applying for the VAWA Visa in the United States is a delicate and complex process that requires complying with several requirements and procedures. It is always advisable to seek legal advice from experts, at PRO Immigration, we can guide you through the entire process and make sure that you meet all the legal requirements. Do not hesitate to contact Immigration PRO to get the best guidance and solution for your immigration situation!

For many immigrants in the U.S., obtaining a work permit and social security is critical to their stability and well-being. In this article, we’ll explain step-by-step how you can get these documents. Always remember to seek legal advice, at Inmigración PRO we can analyze your case, as well as collect the requirements and carry out the necessary procedures.

What is a Work Permit? (EAD)

Also known as Employment Authorization, it is a document issued by the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) that allows immigrants to work legally in the country for a specific period of time. To obtain it, it is generally required to have a valid immigration status that allows it.

Work Permit Requirements:

To obtain a work permit in the United States, it is crucial to meet certain specific requirements. First, it is critical to have a valid offer of employment from a U.S. employer. However, having multiple offers does not guarantee obtaining the permit, as it is also necessary to have an adequate immigration status. This implies being within a valid immigration process, such as a Family Petition, Asylum Application, U Visa, or VAWA Visa, since it is these processes that grant the work permit. Second, Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization, must be completed.Finally, it is necessary to pay the appropriate fees, although in some cases, such as asylum applications, no fees are required. It is important to follow the immigration guidelines in each particular case.

Application Process

Once you have all the requirements, you can start the work permit application process. This includes submitting Form I-765 and the required documents to the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). Once approved, you’ll receive your work permit in the mail.

What is Social Security? (Social Security)

Social Security is a government program in the United States that provides benefits to retired, disabled, or survivors, as well as their families. It is also used as a unique identifier for tax and employment purposes.

Obtaining Social Security

To obtain Social Security in the United States, you need to follow a specific process at the Social Security Administration (SSA) office. First, Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization, must be completed. Once this form is approved, the SSA will issue a Social Security card. If you do not receive the card, you can process it directly at the SSA by presenting the employment card as an identification document. It is important to follow the SSA’s instructions at all times.

Work Permit and Social Security Benefits

Having a work permit and social security in the United States not only allows you to work legally in the country, but also gives you access to better job opportunities and more competitive hourly pay. In addition, having social security allows you to access benefits such as Social Security, Medicare, and other public assistance programs, giving you financial stability and allowing you to contribute to society legally.

Final Recommendation

Obtaining a work permit and social security in the United States is a process that requires complying with several requirements and procedures. It is always advisable to seek the legal advice of experts, at PRO Immigration,we can guide you through the entire process and help you comply with all the legal requirements.

The U Visa is a type of nonimmigrant visa intended to protect people who have suffered trauma in the U.S. such as domestic violence, sexual assault, human trafficking, extortion, kidnapping, among other qualifying crimes. It is very important to keep in mind that in addition to having been victims, applicants must also be willing to collaborate with the authorities to solve the case.

What are all the benefits of the U Visa?

With the U Visa, beneficiaries will be able to live and work legally in the United States for a period of time of approximately four years. However, perhaps the most important benefit is that it can also be the gateway to obtaining permanent residency in the future.


With the U Visa you will have the following benefits:

  • Your Work Permit: With it, you will have the right to work legally in the United States while maintaining your status.
  • Temporary Protection: You will have temporary protection in the U.S. Which means you won’t be able to be deported as long as you have your U Visa status.
  • Eligibility for Permanent Residency: After maintaining the U Visa for a certain amount of time and meeting some specific requirements, you may be eligible to apply for permanent residency in the U.S.
  • Referral for Relatives: Your immediate relatives, such as spouses and children, may be referred and obtain legal status in the U.S. through your approval to the U Visa.
  • Access to Social Services: You will be able to access certain social programs and services in the U.S.
  • Permitted Travel: You will be able to travel temporarily outside of the United States with the U Visa, although with certain restrictions and requirements.

What are the requirements to apply for the U Visa?

Generally speaking, you must be a Victim of a Qualifying Crime within the U.S. and still be in the country.

Crimes considered to be of high gravity, such as domestic violence, rape, kidnapping, fraud , among others, that occurred in U.S. territory, and that have left you with physical or mental damage as a result of these actions.

To do this, you must have police and medical reports, in addition to cooperating with law enforcement authorities, prosecutors, or other government agencies in the investigation or prosecution of the crime.

It is also very necessary to demonstrate your Good Moral Behavior in general, i.e., to prove that you do not pose a threat to public safety.

Finally, with all these requirements, the final step is to obtain a signed certification (Form I-918, Supplement B) from a law enforcement agency certifying the applicant’s cooperation in the investigation or prosecution of the crime, such as a Sheriff.


Do you think your case applies? Take these helpful tips and stay informed.

The success of this process lies in the total willingness you must have to cooperate with the authorities during the investigation of the crime in which you were a victim.

Therefore, be sure to collect and submit all the necessary documentation that supports your eligibility as a victim. Don’t forget to keep detailed records of all crime-related events, including police reports, medical bills, and any other relevant evidence.

Finally, seek legal support. In this type of process, no mistakes can be made, so it is very important that you turn to an experienced lawyer to accompany you in your process.

Remember that, if you have more questions or want to start your U Visa process with us, we are ready to put our team at your disposal. We will take care of helping you gather the evidence, make preparations so that you can face the interviews and justify your case at all times.

Asylum in the United States is a vitally important resource for those facing persecution, conflict, or extreme situations in their home countries.

This form of protection is a fundamental right that provides a safe haven for those who fear returning due to persecution they suffered for fundamental reasons such as race, religion, nationality, political opinion, or membership in a specific social group.

That is why all people, regardless of where they come from, can apply for asylum as long as they meet the necessary requirements. But what are the requirements to apply for asylum? What is the application process like? What deadlines do you have to meet?

Below, we are going to provide you with a clear and understandable overview. Pay close attention to this information.


Asylum Application Requirements and Process in the U.S.

One of the fundamental parts when considering asylum in the U.S. is understanding who is eligible to apply for this protected status.

Asylum laws set time limits and restrictions, which may vary depending on each applicant’s individual situation. Generally, the asylum application is required to be filed within one year of arrival in the United States, although there are certain exceptions to this rule.

So, how do you know if you apply for an asylum process?: If you were persecuted because of your race, your religion, your nationality, your political opinion or membership of social groups such as LGBTIQ+ communities, social or environmental leaders, and you have proof, you can apply.

There have often been cases in which people have been victims of threats and mistreatment, because of their closeness and collaboration with a particular leader, cause or group in danger; In this case, they could also be applicants to an asylum process.

What documents can you submit?:

Presenting the documentation to convincingly substantiate your case is essential. This support may include detailed personal testimonies, medical or police reports, evidence of persecution, and other evidence that supports your request.

And the Asylum interview?:

This is a key stage of the asylum process, and it is usually presented to an asylum officer designated by USCIS (United States Citizenship and Immigration Services).

During this interview, the credibility and veracity of your submitted application is evaluated. That’s why it’s crucial to prepare thoroughly for this interview, as the information provided here has a direct impact on the outcome of your application.

After the submission and review of your application, the asylum officer will examine the case in detail. It will evaluate the validity of the reasons presented for applying for asylum and determine whether you meet the established criteria to receive this protection, or if it is necessary that the case should be evaluated by a judge.

In the stage in front of the judge, it has its own dynamics, which can sometimes be complex, but fundamentally it is necessary to have the preparation and follow-up of the case to comply with the orders issued by the court.

So, what are the benefits of asylum?

Granting asylum in the U.S. provides a number of benefits to those who obtain it. Some of these benefits include:

  1. Legal Protection: Obtaining asylum status guarantees legal protection from deportation to your home country and gives you the opportunity to remain in the United States legally. Subsequently, you will be able to apply for adjustment of status and obtain residency and U.S. citizenship.
  • Work Permit: As an asylum seeker, you will be able to obtain a work permit that allows you to work legally in the United States while your asylum case is resolved. This will mean that you will enjoy not only a better salary but also the legal protection of labor rights like any American.
  • Access to Public Services: By having your asylum, you will be able to access public services, such as education and health care, and you will be able to apply for a Green Card after a certain amount of time.
  • Applying for and Obtaining Asylum in the U.S. It can have significant implications for your family, such as the possibility of future family reunification for your spouses or children, obtaining social benefits and a substantial improvement in your quality of life.

Interested in applying? Take these helpful tips to get started

  1. Don’t forget to have Solid Documentation: It is essential to provide all the thorough and accurate documentation that supports your asylum application.
  • Make Sure You Have the Right Interview Preparation: The asylum interview is crucial. Prepare properly, practice possible questions, and be ready to be honest and consistent in your answers. This is critical.
  • Know the Deadlines: Meeting the deadlines is essential in the asylum application process. Make sure you apply within the allowed period, i.e. before your birthday. This is crucial to avoid complications.
  • Seek Legal Advice: It is highly recommended to seek the advice of an immigration lawyer specializing in asylum along with a professional team that will offer you expert legal guidance and help you prepare a solid application.

Having the representation of an attorney generously increases your chances of having a successful case.

For example, at Immigration Pro we will study your case at no cost to determine the best legal alternative that favors you. Then, if you decide to start, you’ll have a large team ready to prepare and track your entire process to reduce any margin for error.

Today, we have exciting news for Ecuadorian families in the United States. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has launched a new family reunification parole process that provides new hope to those seeking to join their loved ones in the U.S. This initiative is part of the Biden-Harris Administration’s strategy to combine the expansion of legal pathways with the strengthening of immigration laws, all with the goal of reducing irregular migration.

This new process is designed for Ecuadorians whose family members are U.S. citizens or lawful permanent residents, and who have already been approved to reunite with loved ones in the U.S. Specifically, it gives Ecuadorians and their immediate family members the opportunity to apply for humanitarian parole on a case-by-case basis, valid for a maximum of three years, while they await their application for permanent residency.

This process applies to nationals of Ecuador who already have an approved Petition for Alien Relative (Form I-130). Those eligible must be outside the United States, meet all requirements, including background and medical checks, and have not obtained an immigrant visa.

The application for Humanitarian Parole for Family Reunification begins with an invitation from the Department of State to the U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident relative who has obtained approval of the Alien Relative Petition on behalf of an Ecuadorian beneficiary. Beneficiaries include certain children, siblings, spouses, and children of lawful permanent residents and U.S. citizens. Once the invitation is received, the process can begin with the submission of the application for advance travel authorization and parole.

This Humanitarian Parole for Family Reunification process offers renewed hope and allows for temporary stay on a case-by-case basis. Individuals admitted under this process typically obtain a permit for up to three years and can apply for employment authorization while they wait for their immigrant visa. When their immigrant visa becomes available, they will be able to seek lawful permanent residency.

This announcement is a manifestation of the discretionary authority granted to the Secretary of Homeland Security by the Immigration and Nationality Act. In the past, this authority has been used to establish humanitarian parole processes for family reunification in other countries, demonstrating the United States’ continued commitment to strengthening legal immigration pathways.

A detailed notice will soon be published in the Federal Register, which will provide additional information about the application process and eligibility criteria.

Act now! If you are eligible for this process and would like more information, we encourage you to seek legal advice. Together, we can build a brighter future for Ecuadorian families in the United States.

Source: https://www.uscis.gov/es/noticias/comunicados-de-prensa/dhs-anuncia-proceso-de-permiso-humanitario-de-reunificacion-familiar-para-ecuador

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) have released an important update regarding the designation of Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Venezuelan nationals. The redesignation will allow more eligible individuals to apply for TPS and Employment Authorization Documents.

What is TPS and how it can benefit you:

TPS, or Temporary Protected Status, is a temporary immigration program that provides protection to individuals in the United States who are unable to safely return to their home countries due to extraordinary and temporary conditions, such as armed conflict, natural disasters, or similar situations.

TPS beneficiaries may receive the following benefits:

  1. Protection from Deportation: TPS recipients cannot be deported as long as they maintain their TPS status.
  2. Employment Authorization: TPS holders have the right to work legally in the United States during the TPS designation period.
  3. Travel Permit: In some cases, TPS recipients may obtain limited travel permits to leave and return to the United States.

Importantly, TPS is a temporary status and does not lead directly to permanent residency (green card) or citizenship. However, during the validity period of TPS, beneficiaries may seek other forms of immigration status if they are eligible.

Each TPS designation has a specific duration, and beneficiaries must re-register and renew their status as per guidelines provided by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) to maintain their benefits.

Requirements and Benefits:

To be eligible, you must have established residence in the U.S. before July 31, 2023 and maintain continuous residence. The redesignation, known as Venezuela 2023, opens the opportunity for approximately 472,000 additional Venezuelan nationals to apply for TPS. Those who enter after July 31, 2023 will not be eligible.

If you qualify, take advantage of this period to file your initial TPS application using Form I-21 by April 2, 2025. You can also request anEmployment Authorization Document (EAD) by filing Form I-75 along with your Form I-821 or separately, remember that we are here to advise you and you can carry out this process satisfactorily and obtain this exclusive benefit for Venezuelans.

Re-registration and Extension:

The TPS extension for those who have already enrolled (Venezuela 2023) runs through September 10, 2025 . Re-registration is open from January 10, 2024 to March 10, 2024. Make sure you maintain your status and employment authorization. USCIS will process pending applications under Venezuela 2021 and has automatically extended the validity of certain previously issued EADs until March 10, 2025.

This update seeks to alleviate the hardships faced by Venezuelans and reinforces USCIS and DHS’s commitment to the immigrant community. If you have any questions or need assistance, please do not hesitate to contact us. Start your process today and secure your future in America!

Sources: https://www.uscis.gov/es/programas-humanitarios/estatus-de-proteccion-temporal, https://www.uscis.gov/es/noticias/comunicados-de-prensa/dhs-publica-notificacion-del-registro-federal-que-extiende-y-designa-nuevamente-por-separado-a, https://www.dhs.gov/news/2023/09/29/dhs-previews-federal-register-notice-extending-and-separately-redesignating

Great News for Our Migrant Community!

At InmigracionPRO, we enthusiastically welcome the recent update of the guidelines in the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) Policy Manual. Now, initial and renewal Employment Authorization Documents (EADs) for certain non-citizens authorized to work are extended to five years!

This incredible news benefits those admitted as refugees, with temporary stay permits, asylees and those who have received suspension of removal. In addition, initial and renewal EADs for those who must apply for employment authorization, such as asylum seekers, adjustment of status under INA 245, and withholding of removal or cancellation of removal, have also been extended to five years.

Already have an EAD? Don’t worry! When the renewal period arrives, USCIS will automatically grant you the new five-year period. This new law is in effect from September 27, 2023, providing peace of mind to our migrant community.

The updated guidance not only clarifies the categories of non-citizens automatically authorized to work, but also provides details on how the Entry/Exit Record (Form I-94) can be presented as evidence of both status and employment authorization under List C of Form I-9, Verification of Employment Eligibility. This is excellent news to simplify processes and make life easier for our community!

Finally, we note that certain Afghans and Ukrainians with temporary residence permits are allowed to work on the basis of their temporary stay permit.

What does this mean for you? It is the perfect time to take a step forward in your immigration process. At InmigracionPRO, we are here to guide you and provide you with the support you need.

Act Now: If you haven’t started your process yet, this is your call to action! Trust us to be your allies on this crucial path. Together, we’ll make your journey as smooth as possible.

Let’s Talk About Your Success Story: We would love to hear how this news has impacted your life. Share your experience and be an inspiration to others who may be in a similar situation.

This update is another step towards a more efficient and less complicated migration process. We are here for you every step of the way!

Start your journey today!

Source: https://www.uscis.gov/es/noticias/alertas/uscis-aumenta-el-periodo-de-validez-de-los-documentos-de-autorizacion-de-empleo-para-ciertashttps://www.uscis.gov/policy-manual/volume-10-part-a-chapter-4

As of September 13, 2023, we at Immigration PRO want to inform you about an important change in affirmative asylum interview procedures. USCIS (U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services) has established a new requirement for affirmative asylum seekers: now, you must have an interpreter if you do not speak English or if you prefer to conduct your interview in a language other than English.

It is important to note that this new rule does not apply to sign language interpreters, as USCIS will continue to provide sign language interpreters as a disability accommodation. If you need this service, follow the instructions in your interview notice to request it.

In case you require an interpreter and do not take him with you to your interview, or if your interpreter is not fluent in English and you cannot demonstrate a justified reason for it, it is important to note that this could be considered as a failure to appear at your interview. As a result, USCIS may dismiss your asylum application or refer you to an immigration judge. However, USCIS will evaluate each case on an individual basis to determine if there is a good reason for the lack of an interpreter.

The requirements for your interpreter are as follows:

  1. You must be fluent in English and the language in which you feel comfortable conversing.
  2. You must be 18 years of age or older.
  3. It cannot be your attorney or authorized representative.
  4. It cannot be a witness testifying on your behalf.
  5. You cannot be a representative or employee of the government of your home country (or your last habitual residence if you are stateless).
  6. You cannot be a person with a pending asylum application who has not yet been interviewed.

This change in procedures follows a series of temporary rules issued by USCIS due to the COVID-19 pandemic. With the expiration of the last temporary rule, the previous regulatory requirement to provide an interpreter under 8 CFR 208.9(g) is reinstated.

At Immigration PRO, we are committed to keeping you informed about important updates and changes in immigration procedures. If you have any questions or need more information, do not hesitate to contact us. We are here to help you through every step of your asylum process.

Original news taken from USCIS: https://www.uscis.gov/es/noticias/alertas/los-solicitantes-de-asilo-afirmativo-deberan-proporcionar-interpretes-desde-el-13-de-septiembre

As of September 13, 2023, we at Immigration PRO want to inform you about an important change in affirmative asylum interview procedures. USCIS (United States Citizenship and Immigration Services) has established a new requirement for affirmative asylum seekers: now, you must have an interpreter if you do not speak English or if you prefer to conduct your interview in a language other than English.

It is important to note that this new rule does not apply to sign language interpreters, as USCIS will continue to provide sign language interpreters as a disability accommodation. If you need this service, follow the instructions in your interview notice to request it.

In case you require an interpreter and do not take him with you to your interview, or if your interpreter is not fluent in English and you cannot demonstrate a justified reason for it, it is important to note that this could be considered as a failure to appear at your interview. As a result, USCIS may dismiss your asylum application or refer you to an immigration judge. However, USCIS will evaluate each case on an individual basis to determine if there is a good reason for the lack of an interpreter.

The requirements for your interpreter are as follows:

  1. You must be fluent in English and the language in which you feel comfortable conversing.
  2. You must be 18 years of age or older.
  3. It cannot be your attorney or authorized representative.
  4. It cannot be a witness testifying on your behalf.
  5. You cannot be a representative or employee of the government of your home country (or your last habitual residence if you are stateless).
  6. You cannot be a person with a pending asylum application who has not yet been interviewed.

This change in procedures follows a series of temporary rules issued by USCIS due to the COVID-19 pandemic. With the expiration of the last temporary rule, the previous regulatory requirement to provide an interpreter under 8 CFR 208.9(g) is reinstated.

At Immigration PRO, we are committed to keeping you informed about important updates and changes in immigration procedures. If you have any questions or need more information, do not hesitate to contact us. We are here to help you through every step of your asylum process.

Original news taken from USCIS: https://www.uscis.gov/es/noticias/alertas/los-solicitantes-de-asilo-afirmativo-deberan-proporcionar-interpretes-desde-el-13-de-septiembre

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