New Episode of "Hablando con Carolina": Answering Your Top Questions

In the latest episode of Hablando con Carolina, immigration attorney Carolina Antonini from Antonini & Cohen Immigration Law Group discusses several critical immigration updates and concerns. With significant policy changes already taking effect – and more anticipated under the new Trump administration – this episode provides essential information for immigrants and their families.

Contact us to schedule a consultation with one of Antonini & Cohen’s dedicated Atlanta immigration lawyers and secure your legal status.

At Antonini & Cohen, we know how.

New Medical Exam Requirements for Residency Applications

One of the most urgent updates involves an immediate change to residency application requirements. Previously, applicants could submit their residency application first and provide the medical examination later when requested by immigration authorities. This process helped avoid issues with medical exams expiring during lengthy processing times.

Effective immediately, USCIS requires that all residency applications must include a complete medical examination at the time of initial submission. 

This change reflects a broader shift in USCIS processing. Increasingly, incomplete applications are being rejected outright rather than receiving requests for additional evidence. Carolina Antonini emphasizes that applicants must submit complete packages with all required documentation, including:

• Medical examinations

• Tax documents

• Birth certificates

• Certified translations

• Any other required documents evidencing eligibility

Contact Antonini & Cohen Immigration Law Group to schedule a consultation with one of Atlanta’s top immigration lawyers and learn how to navigate this process successfully.

In-Person Interviews for VAWA Applications

There has been concern over USCIS requiring in-person interviews for VAWA (Violence Against Women Act) applications. While in-person interviews have always been a possibility for any immigration application, including VAWA, USCIS has increased the frequency of these interviews in an effort to combat fraud. If you have submitted a truthful and well-documented application, there is no need to worry – the interview is simply a part of the process.

Increased Deportations and Enforcement

The Trump administration has made deportation a top priority, potentially targeting millions of people. ICE has ramped up enforcement actions, focusing on individuals with existing deportation orders. Those reporting for routine ICE check-ins are being detained and deported quickly, while individuals with criminal records are immediately referred to immigration authorities. 

If you have a deportation order, you may be able to reopen your case or secure a form of humanitarian relief. If deported, it's crucial to avoid illegal reentry, as it could permanently bar future immigration opportunities.

Schedule a consultation with an experienced Antonini & Cohen immigration attorney to explore all your options. 

Stay safe and stay informed – Know Your Rights if Stopped by ICE.

Criminal Arrests and Immigration Consequences

Under Georgia law, arrested non-citizens are reported to immigration authorities. Paying bail for release from a county jail could lead to an immediate transfer to immigration detention where conditions are often worse than in county jails. 

If you or a loved one is arrested, you will need both a criminal attorney and an immigration attorney to coordinate the best strategy for your case.

False Documentation

Using a child's Social Security number is a crime. In addition, doing so can severely damage the child's credit history and future opportunities. The child may also face a lengthy and difficult process to obtain a new Social Security number.

Military Parole in Place Program

Having a child in military service does not automatically grant the parents an immigration benefit. The Military Parole in Place (PIP) program offers humanitarian relief, but it is discretionary and subject to specific eligibility requirements. While some applicants may qualify for temporary protection, they may not be eligible for permanent residency. 

What Comes Next?

Attorney Carolina Antonini acknowledges that 2025 will likely bring challenging changes for immigrants. However, she reminds listeners that the attorneys at Antonini and Cohen Immigration Law Group will continue fighting for immigrant rights.

Our dedicated Atlanta immigration lawyers at Antonini & Cohen will help you navigate the immigration process to ensure you secure and maintain legal status.  Call (470) 428-3200 or fill out our contact form to schedule a consultation. 

At Antonini & Cohen, we know how.

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For more episodes of Hablando con Carolina, click here.