As Donald Trump’s administration prepares to take office next month, a wave of uncertainty is sweeping through the immigrant communities in the United States, particularly among those living in the country without documentation.
With Trump’s vow to commence mass deportations, immigration attorneys like Kinda Velloza are advising immigrants—especially those from the Guyanese diaspora—to act swiftly in order to safeguard their futures.
Velloza, a Guyanese-American immigration lawyer, says already she has seen a significant rise in inquiries from concerned immigrants seeking to understand their options under the new administration.
“The mood is tense,” she says.
“People are scared, worried, and feeling overwhelmed by the potential changes.”
However, while the situation is certainly serious, she reassures individuals that there are legal avenues available to protect their status, provided they act promptly.
Stay or Go?
According to Velloza, the first step for undocumented immigrants is to determine whether they wish to stay in the U.S. or return to their home countries.
For those who wish to remain, she stresses the importance of filing legal petitions as soon as possible.
“If you have a family member who can sponsor you, such as a U.S. citizen spouse, child, or parent, now is the time to begin the process,” she advises.
One of the primary concerns among immigrants is Trump’s promise to eliminate “chain migration,” which allows U.S. citizens and green card holders to sponsor family members for immigration.
Velloza highlights the urgency of filing applications for extended family members—such as siblings and parents—before the policy changes, as it is unclear whether these opportunities will exist under the new administration.
While the situation may appear daunting, Velloza offers some comforting news for those already in the U.S. with pending immigration cases, such as asylum applications.
“Asylum is one of the most protective statuses in immigration law,” she explains. “Once an asylum case is pending, it provides a degree of protection from deportation, as officials cannot remove someone who has a pending asylum application.”
Velloza also urges those unsure of their status or eligibility to consult with an immigration lawyer.
“Immigration law is complex and ever-changing. Navigating it alone can lead to costly mistakes, including denial of applications or even deportation,” she warns.
“If you file an application incorrectly, it can trigger removal proceedings, which could make the situation much worse.”
For those who choose to file on their own, the risks are high. Velloza stresses the importance of professional legal assistance, particularly in light of Trump’s stricter immigration policies.
“In the past, people might have been able to handle their cases without legal aid, but under this administration, errors in paperwork can be disastrous,” she says.
“Once your application is denied, you risk immediate deportation.”
However, Velloza remains optimistic, offering hope to those who may feel overwhelmed by the process.
“The most important thing is to speak with an immigration lawyer,” she advises.
“Don’t let fear of the unknown paralyse you. By consulting a professional, you can learn about your options and create a clear plan for your future. There are pathways to remain in the U.S. if you know where to look.”
In this period of heightened anxiety, Velloza’s message is clear: don’t wait.
The earlier immigrants begin addressing their legal status, the more likely they are to avoid the harsh consequences of deportation. By taking proactive steps now, individuals can relieve some of the stress and uncertainty they face as the new administration takes shape.
