It's Time to Leave the United States!: The email you'll receive if you entered with CBP One

In recent days, but especially yesterday and today, the United States government is sending a message to thousands of immigrants who entered through CBP One to leave the country as soon as possible. What does this mean? What should or can you do? We explain below.

What does the email say?

The mail, which everyone who entered the United States will receive sooner or later, and which since Directorio Cubano we were able to access, it clearly says:

It's time for you to leave the United States! You are currently in this country because the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) granted you parole to enter the United States for a limited period. (…) Again, DHS is revoking your parole. Do not attempt to remain in the United States; the federal government will find you.

Using truly threatening language, the emails have generated tremendous alarm and even terror among immigrants, many of them of Cuban origin.

The message also specifies a specific timeframe for the measure to take effect, unless the permits granted expire before then:

"Unless it expires sooner, your parole will end seven days from the date of this notice. If you do not leave the United States immediately, you will be subject to possible law enforcement actions resulting in your removal from the country, unless you have obtained a lawful basis to remain here."

It is also made clear that all associated benefits, such as the employment authorization (EAD), are revoked. This means that many now face the possibility of being arrested and losing their work permits. Or, worse, deportation if they don't respond in a timely manner.

“Any benefits you receive in the United States related to your parole, such as employment authorization, will also be canceled. You will be subject to potential criminal prosecution, civil fines, and other legal penalties available to the federal government. DHS urges you to leave the country immediately on your own. You can use the CBP Home mobile app on your phone to make arrangements for your departure. (…) Please leave the United States immediately.”

Everyone will receive the notification

On his YouTube channel, journalist Mario J. Pentón shared details about these letters after receiving advice from the Gallardo Law Firm, which specializes in immigration matters.

According to lawyers, not everyone who has received this notification should leave immediately. Some cases are protected by legal avenues already in place. For example, those who have qualified for residency under the Cuban Adjustment Act, or are awaiting it, those with an approved visa or asylum case, etc.

But to put it more clearly, here is a list:

• Cubans who have already submitted their applications under the Cuban Adjustment Act.
• Migrants married to citizens or legal residents.
• People with asylum applications pending.
• Those who have managed to change their immigration status since entering the country. That is, those who already have residency (green card).

In recent hours, it has emerged that the United States government is even including those who were never able to cross in these notifications. For example, many Cubans who were stranded in Mexico, waiting for an appointment that never came, have also received the aforementioned revocation letter.

"But we haven't even entered yet, and they're asking us to leave," commented one of the testimonies collected by activists.

What to do if you've already received the letter?

We reiterate, if you entered with a CBP One, you'll receive the letter; that is, everyone will be notified. What you should do will depend on your current status.

Let's look at each case:

• If you haven't applied for asylum, do so now. You can still start the process. You need to be clear that if you entered with CBP One, it was precisely for that reason. So, if you didn't apply for asylum for whatever reason, it's time to do so. This isn't a false alarm; the government is serious.
• Don't ignore the letter. Respond with legal advice.
• Don't sign documents or leave the country without consulting a lawyer. This isn't the time to go crazy either; keep in mind that you have alternatives.
• You should start gathering evidence for your asylum case: complaints, proof of persecution, etc.cucion, testimonies.
• Don't assume it's a ploy by some to extort money from you. Seek certified legal advice. However, avoid falling for scams or advice that has no legal basis.