A Cuban migrant who attended his immigration appointment on December 4 at the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) office in Miramar, Florida, described a tense atmosphere with new requirements and procedures, catching many off guard amidst the tightening immigration policies under the Trump administration.
In a video shared on TikTok, user @rafaleeoficial recounted how, despite his process going smoothly, he observed notable changes since his last visit. He explained there were two lines operating: one for those who received appointments via the machine and another for those with in-person appointments. The latter group was required to stay an additional half-hour to sign documents before leaving.
According to his account, the interviews inside the office were far more thorough. "They asked a bunch of questions to everyone," he mentioned, adding that officers had detailed information on each person, including tax returns, addresses, phone numbers, and even court dates.
He noted that a migrant without an assigned court date received one on the spot. He also observed several pregnant women in the waiting area.
A significant change that caught the young man's attention could impact thousands of Cuban families. He reported that an officer explained if a family entered the country together, even if only one member had an appointment, the entire family now needed to attend.
He cited an example where a man's case was altered on the spot: although only he had an appointment, the authorities added his wife, who lived in Tampa, requiring both to be present. A lawyer present confirmed this information to the waiting migrants.
This testimony emerges within a tightening immigration context. In recent months, the Trump administration has ordered the review of thousands of already-granted permanent residencies, temporarily suspended citizenship and asylum processes for Cubans, and increased restrictive criteria for approving permits and applications.
Simultaneously, ICE has intensified monitoring of individuals with documents like the I-220A, with an increase in cases of Cubans detained after attending routine appointments at immigration offices.
Nevertheless, the young Cuban tried to convey calm. He assured that most people he saw entering were able to leave without problems and that, at least in his case, the process concluded without incident. "God bless America, may everything continue to go well," he said before ending his recording.
For many Cuban migrants in Florida, the experience in Miramar has become more than just an appointment; it's a test within an uncertain immigration landscape marked by constant changes, deeper interrogations, and the looming fear of decisions that can shape the future of their families.
Questions About New ICE Procedures in Miramar
What changes have been implemented in the ICE procedures in Miramar?
Recent changes include the requirement for entire families to attend appointments if they entered the country together, even if only one member has an appointment. Additionally, interviews have become more thorough, with officers having access to detailed personal information.
How have these changes affected Cuban migrants specifically?
Cuban migrants are facing stricter scrutiny, with more detailed questioning during interviews and a requirement for family members to attend appointments together, which adds complexity and potential stress to the process.
What is the current immigration climate under the Trump administration?
The Trump administration has been reviewing permanent residencies, pausing citizenship and asylum processes for Cubans, and applying stricter criteria for permit approvals, contributing to an increasingly challenging immigration environment.