The Trump administration mistakenly sent emails to some Ukrainian refugees under the Uniting for Ukraine program, wrongly informing them of their parole termination and demanding immediate departure. These notices, sent in error, threatened legal action for non-compliance and encouraged self-deportation via a government app. DHS subsequently retracted the emails, clarifying that the Uniting for Ukraine program remains active. However, the incident highlights ongoing concerns about the administration’s broader efforts to dismantle Biden-era immigration policies, raising anxieties about the future legal status of Ukrainian refugees.
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The Trump administration is employing new tactics to deport international students, alarming college leaders. Students are being ordered to leave the country immediately, often without clear justification, and their legal residency is being terminated, a departure from past practices. This crackdown, impacting students across numerous universities, targets some for political activism or minor infractions, while others face deportation without explanation. The federal government is bypassing colleges in this process, creating uncertainty and potentially chilling future international student enrollment.
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Joe Rogan, while supportive of crackdowns on illegal immigration, voiced concern over the Trump administration’s deportation practices. He highlighted the cases of two Venezuelan asylum seekers—a makeup artist and a barber—wrongfully deported to El Salvador’s harsh CECOT prison due to mistaken gang affiliations based on tattoos. Rogan emphasized the need for more careful vetting to avoid deporting innocent legal migrants, arguing that such actions harm the overall effort to remove actual criminals. He questioned the lack of accountability and potential for correction within the government’s immigration procedures.
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In 2024, Canada significantly tightened its immigration policies, leading to a dramatic increase in visa application rejections. Study permit applications faced a 52% denial rate, while work permit denials reached 22%, a marginal improvement from the previous year. This stricter approach effectively closed Canada’s doors to a substantial number of foreign workers, students, and tourists. The resulting impact on Canada’s economy and social fabric remains to be seen.
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The Department of Homeland Security proposes expanding social media data collection for immigration applicants, encompassing those already in the U.S. seeking benefits like green cards or citizenship. This expands upon existing practices, initiated during the Obama administration and intensified under Trump, aiming to enhance fraud detection and national security vetting. The proposal, open for public comment until May 5th, has raised concerns from advocates regarding free speech implications and the potential for biased interpretations of social media content. An estimated 3.6 million individuals could be affected by this policy change.
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Norway has updated its travel advisory for the U.S., echoing similar actions by other European nations. The changes, prompted by reported instances of European travelers facing detention and deportation, highlight stricter U.S. entry conditions and limitations on gender recognition in visa applications. Norway advises that a visa or ESTA doesn’t guarantee entry and that travelers whose gender differs from their birth certificate should contact the U.S. embassy beforehand. This follows recent updates from Ireland, Denmark, Finland, Germany, the UK, Belgium, and the Netherlands, reflecting growing concerns among European governments about U.S. immigration policies.
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Secretary Kristi Noem’s X video, filmed at El Salvador’s CECOT prison, warned undocumented immigrants of potential imprisonment there for crimes against the U.S. This follows President Trump’s controversial deportation of Venezuelans to El Salvador, utilizing wartime legislation. Noem’s post generated intense online backlash, with critics citing human rights concerns and the lack of due process, while supporters praised her strong stance. The video also sparked controversy over Noem’s apparent display of a luxury watch during the filming.
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The Trump administration’s proposal to scrutinize the social media accounts of green card applicants already residing in the U.S. has drawn widespread condemnation for infringing upon free speech rights. This expansion of existing social media vetting for visa applicants abroad would apply to those seeking permanent residency or asylum within the country. Critics argue the policy disproportionately affects those critical of the government, citing instances of detention and deportation based on social media activity. The proposal, currently under public review, raises concerns about potential abuse of power and chilling effects on free expression.
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The Trump administration will revoke the parole status of approximately 532,000 Latin American and Haitian migrants admitted under the Biden administration’s CHNV program, effective late April. This action terminates their work permits and deportation protections, leaving them to self-deport within 30 days or face arrest and removal. The DHS cites concerns about inadequate vetting and negative impacts on American workers, framing the decision as a return to stricter immigration policies. Those who fail to leave or secure alternative legal status will be prioritized for deportation.
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Wisconsin resident Bradley Bartell launched a GoFundMe campaign to secure his wife Camila Muñoz’s release from ICE custody. Muñoz, a Peruvian citizen, was detained upon returning from their honeymoon despite being married to a U.S. citizen and pursuing legal residency. Bartell, who voted for President Trump, expressed hope that this situation will highlight flaws in the immigration system. The fundraiser aims to cover legal fees and expedite Muñoz’s release from a Louisiana detention center.
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John Q. Hosedrinker