1) New $1,000 parole fee starts today

If you’re asking for parole or re-parole, there’s a new cost to plan for. DHS says a $1,000 “immigration parole fee” applies when USCIS grants parole, unless you fit an exception. The fee can adjust for inflation each year. USCIS also notes you don’t pay with the form—you pay if your case is approved and requires payment. We’ll track who’s exempt and how payment will work. 

Quick Facts:

• Fee applies “when paroled,” not at submission.  
• Based on H.R. 1; Federal Register notice published Oct 16, 2025.  
• USCIS will adjust amount yearly for inflation. 
  Sources: USCIS; Federal Register.  

2) CBP stop: 13 migrants interdicted near Puerto Rico

CBP says a vessel reached Puerto Rico carrying 13 people from Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan, and Russia before it was stopped. The case highlights how routes shift beyond the southwest border. Expect criminal prosecutions or immigration processing to follow, depending on facts CBP and partners confirm. 

Quick Facts:

• Caribbean routes have risen as smuggling adapts. (Background via CBP newsroom cadence)  
• Nationalities reflect broader extra-hemispheric migration patterns.  
• CBP often partners with Coast Guard on maritime interdictions. 
  Source: CBP local release.  

3) CBP seizes $1M in undeclared cash, weapons parts at Hidalgo

At the Hidalgo Port of Entry, officers reported finding $1 million in undeclared U.S. currency plus weapons components and ammo. Cash reporting rules apply when crossing the border; violations can lead to seizures and charges. CBP says enforcement was spread across multiple inspections. 

Quick facts:

• Cash over $10,000 must be declared when entering/leaving the U.S. (CBP guidance)  
• Port-of-entry firearm parts are a recurring enforcement area.  
• Cases may be referred to HSI/ATF/DEA depending on findings. 
  Source: CBP local release.  

4) AP: ICE deports Marine’s father after base visit

AP reports a U.S. Marine’s family trip to Camp Pendleton ended with ICE detaining his undocumented parents. The father was later deported. The story spotlights how routine check-ins can still lead to custody even for families with pending cases. Military families and advocates are asking questions about discretion and support. 

Quick Facts:

• Parents reportedly had long U.S. residence and pending applications.  
• Past programs hinted at benefits for service families; Marines now stress they can’t promise legal help.  
• ICE cites rule-of-law enforcement under current policy. 
  Source: AP.  

5) Reuters: DHS grant shift toward GOP-led states

Reuters says the administration plans to redirect a $1B anti-terror program toward Republican-led states. While not immigration processing, these grants shape state and local security posture, which can influence joint operations, task forces, and community programs tied to border enforcement. 

Quick Facts:

• Report cites government records and timing as of Oct 16.  
• Could affect funding for cities with large immigrant populations. (Inference from program scope)  
• Watch for pushback from big metros that previously received more. 
  Source: Reuters.