The United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has issued a strong warning to immigrants involved in open cases or with questionable immigration histories, declaring, "Don't underestimate our investigative power." This statement was shared on their official X account (formerly known as Twitter), alongside news of the arrest of two immigrants with final deportation orders. These individuals were identified by USCIS officials in Charlotte, North Carolina, in collaboration with Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).
“We are fully committed to restoring security in the United States,” emphasized the agency, adopting a stricter tone in line with the tightening immigration policies characteristic of President Donald Trump's new administration. Since Trump resumed office in January 2025, there has been a significant reinforcement of immigration control mechanisms. In the initial 100 days alone, over 65,000 undocumented immigrants were deported, a figure that doubles the records from the same period under previous administrations.
Stricter Measures Under Trump Administration
Moreover, the current administration has recently petitioned the Supreme Court for the discretionary power to revoke immigration statuses, including permanent residency and citizenship, in cases deemed as national security risks. In tandem, USCIS has expanded its capacity to review the social media and digital presence of individuals applying for immigration benefits, such as permanent residency or visas. This policy, announced in March, aims to uncover inconsistencies or activities considered suspicious by applicants.
This approach has sparked concern among civil rights advocates, who warn of potential privacy violations and misinterpretations. One of the most recent and controversial cases involves Cuban rapper El Funky, whose application for permanent residency was allegedly denied due to having a criminal record in Cuba. The artistic community and various human rights organizations argue these are politically motivated charges, yet U.S. immigration authorities maintain that the law does not differentiate based on the origin of convictions.
Visas as a Privilege, Not a Right
Further emphasizing the administration's stance, Secretary of State Marco Rubio cautioned in April that holders of U.S. visas must understand it is "not a right, but a privilege," and any infraction or behavior contrary to the nation's security interests could lead to immediate revocation of their visa or immigration status. In this climate of increased scrutiny, USCIS aims to make it clear that no irregularity will go unchecked and all collaboration with ICE will be heightened to ensure strict compliance with immigration laws.
Key Questions on US Immigration Policy
What actions has USCIS taken under President Trump's administration?
Under President Trump's administration, USCIS has reinforced immigration control mechanisms, deporting over 65,000 undocumented immigrants in the first 100 days. They have also expanded their review of social media and digital presence for immigration applicants.
How does USCIS collaborate with ICE?
USCIS works closely with ICE to identify and detain immigrants with final deportation orders, ensuring strict enforcement of immigration laws through enhanced collaboration efforts.
Why was El Funky's application for permanent residency denied?
El Funky's application was reportedly denied due to a criminal record in Cuba, which U.S. authorities do not differentiate from politically motivated charges, despite objections from human rights groups.