Irregular Immigration and Visa Restrictions: The Situation of Latin Americans in the U.S.
June 10, 2025 — Latin America continues to be the region with the largest presence among undocumented immigrants in the United States, according to recent data from the Pew Research Center and the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). Adding to this reality is a new executive order from the U.S. government, effective June 9, that imposes immigration restrictions on citizens of 19 countries, including several Latin American nations such as Venezuela, Cuba, and Nicaragua.
Also read: “DHS Ends Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Cameroon”
Latin America Leads in Irregular Immigration
According to the Pew Research Center, 68% of undocumented immigrants in the U.S. are from Latin America. Asia accounts for 13%, while Europe and Canada together make up 4%.
By state of residence, California (2.6 million) and Texas (2.06 million) together account for nearly half of the total undocumented immigrant population. Florida, New York, and New Jersey also report high numbers.
Mexico, Guatemala, and El Salvador at the Top
According to the DHS, the countries with the largest number of undocumented immigrants are:
- Mexico: 4.81 million
- Guatemala: 750,000
- El Salvador: 710,000
- Honduras: 560,000
Cuba, Nicaragua, and Venezuela also show significant presence, though to a lesser extent.
Visa Restrictions for Citizens of Venezuela and Other Countries
On June 9, 2025, a new presidential order went into effect restricting entry into the U.S. for citizens from 19 countries, including Venezuela, Cuba, and Nicaragua. The restrictions apply to both nonimmigrant visas and certain categories of immigrant visas.
Visa types affected include:
- B-1/B-2: Business and tourism
- F and M: Academic and vocational students
- J: Exchange programs
Some immigrant visa categories are also restricted, especially for individuals outside the U.S. who did not have a valid visa prior to June 9.
Exceptions include:
- Lawful permanent residents of the U.S.
- Dual nationals traveling with a passport from a country not affected
- Holders of diplomatic or international organization visas
- Direct family visas (IR-1, IR-2, etc.) and adoptions
- Cases deemed in the national interest
Validity of Visas Issued Before June 9
Visas issued prior to June 9 remain valid for entry into the U.S. However, they may be subject to cancellation or non-renewal if they fail to meet the new conditions. The final decision lies with the Department of Homeland Security (DHS).
Are Visas Still Being Processed?
Yes. U.S. embassies and consulates continue to accept visa applications. However, restricted visas will be automatically denied unless the applicant qualifies for one of the listed exceptions.
Follow-Up Report
The U.S. government will issue an initial report in 90 days to assess the impact of the measure, followed by semiannual reviews to determine whether the restrictions should be modified or maintained.
Conclusion
The combination of high levels of irregular immigration from Latin America and new immigration restrictions marks a pivotal moment for U.S. immigration policy. While the measure aims to address national security concerns, its impact is particularly felt in countries such as Mexico, Venezuela, Cuba, Nicaragua, Guatemala, and El Salvador—whose citizens represent a significant portion of the immigrant population in the United States.
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