Recently, the Department of State announced that it will no longer be accepting new applications for a refugee program for Central American Minors. The Central American Minors refugee program was created in 2014 in an effort to consider minors from El Salvador, Guatemala, and Honduras for refugee resettlement. If the minors were not considered eligible for refugee resettlement in the United Staes, they would then be considered by the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services for parole. However, the parole portion of this program for Central American Minors ended in August 2017.
According to the USCIS, the Central American Minor refugee program was terminated during the government review of the U.S. Refugee Admissions Program for 2018. There are many other changes coming that will impact refugees as well, such as increased data collection and security measures. It is important to note that though no further applications are being accepted for the Central American Minors refugee program, the USCIS will continue to interview applicants until January 31, 2018. If those who did not receive an interview by that date but still have a pending application, they will be given additional instruction at that time.
Our firm is committing to awareness of any changes made to government protocol on immigration that may impact our clients. If you need assistance with a matter related to immigration, please contact our firm today.
The Law Offices of Cheryl R. David practices immigration law throughout NYC. If you have questions about your particular matters regarding immigration please contact the office to discuss your circumstances and options today.