Heydi Sánchez Tejeda, a Cuban mother who was deported despite being married to a naturalized U.S. citizen and having an 18-month-old daughter, has shared her thoughts from the island on the news that her family reunification has been approved by authorities. While this decision doesn't immediately resolve her situation, it has rekindled her hope. "Finally, after a long wait, they accepted the family reunification," she expressed in an interview with Univision, though she clarified that it doesn't mean her case is resolved yet. "I want to say that I still don't have a visa. I don't have anything yet... My husband only attended an immigration appointment," she added.
Grateful for the support they've received, Heydi thanked everyone who has supported them in various ways. "Thanks to all who have helped us, who have raised their voices for us, for all the kind comments," she concluded, visibly moved.
Background of Heydi's Deportation Case
Heydi was detained by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) on April 24, following a routine immigration appointment. Shortly thereafter, she was deported to Cuba, leaving her infant daughter—whom she was still nursing—and her husband, who resides in the United States, behind.
Seven weeks later, the family has received a hopeful update: their family reunification petition has been approved. Immigration attorney Claudia Cañizares affirmed, "These are definitely good news now that Heydi's family petition has been approved," although she acknowledged that "this does not mean she will be able to enter the United States immediately." The path toward reunification remains challenging and filled with hurdles.
Cañizares explained that Heydi must complete a consular process that involves submitting documents such as the affidavit of support, followed by an interview at the U.S. Embassy in Havana. Additionally, she will need an immigration waiver approved due to her illegal border crossing in 2019. This waiver could take years unless expedited, which is why the family continues to seek the assistance of U.S. congress members to speed up the process.
Since Heydi's forced departure, Carlos Yuniel Valle has been solely responsible for their one-year-old daughter, awaiting a resolution to reunite the family. The progress in their case was partially facilitated by the efforts of Congresswoman Kathy Castor, for which the couple expressed public gratitude.
Steps Remaining for Reunification
Despite the approval, significant steps remain. The case now moves to the National Visa Center (NVC), where Heydi will be scheduled for an interview at the U.S. consulate in Havana. Before returning, she must process two immigration waivers, a procedure that can extend over several years, although her attorney aims to have the case processed expediently.
The family also faces uncertainty due to a recent U.S. government measure restricting visa issuance to Cuban citizens. Although this regulation primarily affects tourist and student visas (such as B-1/B-2, J, M, and F), it remains unclear if it will also impact immigrant visas like the IR-1.
"The hardest part is being endured by our daughter," lamented Carlos in recent statements to Telemundo 51, with Heydi adding that she is suffering in Cuba due to being separated from her child.
Frequently Asked Questions About Heydi's Case
What are the next steps for Heydi's family reunification?
Heydi must complete a consular process, including document submission and an interview at the U.S. Embassy in Havana. She also needs an immigration waiver approved, which could take years unless expedited.
How has Congresswoman Kathy Castor contributed to Heydi's case?
Congresswoman Kathy Castor has actively supported Heydi's case, helping to advance the approval of her family reunification petition.
What impact do recent U.S. visa restrictions have on Heydi's case?
Recent U.S. visa restrictions mainly affect tourist and student visas. It is still uncertain if these restrictions will impact immigrant visas like the IR-1, relevant to Heydi's case.