Movilidad Segura
Colombia and the United States agree on the terms for the exploratory phase of the “Safe Mobility” initiative
The governments of Colombia and the United States have come to a mutual understanding to embark on a six-month exploratory phase for the “safe mobility” (Movilidad Segura) initiative. This agreement was solidified through an Exchange of Verbal Notes, outlining the terms.
According to this agreement, individuals seeking refuge from Cuba, Haiti, and Venezuela and who can prove their lawful migration status in Colombia up to June 11, 2023, will have the opportunity to submit their applications online through the Movilidad Segura platform.
During the exploratory phase, Colombia, in collaboration with local authorities, has approved the establishment of three Safe Mobility Points in Soacha, Medellín, and Cali. The first point began operating in Medellín on August 1. These Safe Mobility Points in the mentioned cities will be situated within the facilities of the Assistance and Orientation Points (PAO) of the United Nations Refugee Agency (UNHCR) and the Reference and Orientation Points (PRO) of the International Organization for Migration (IOM).
These organizations will oversee the operation of the platform and the points, as well as the processing of requests. The Colombian Government will not interfere in the process, as matters concerning migration routes to the United States fall within the jurisdiction of that nation and are influenced by its internal migration policies.
While the Movilidad Segura platform will not handle applications from Colombian citizens, part of the negotiations involves the expansion of legal pathways for Colombian citizens to travel, study, reside, and work in the United States. An early outcome of these discussions occurred on July 7, when the United States Department of Homeland Security introduced new procedures for granting humanitarian family reunification permits for Colombian citizens. Invitations have already been dispatched by the US National Visa Center.
Likewise, in September, the Colombia-United States Consular Affairs Group will be reactivated. This bilateral mechanism, established in 2006, serves as a continuous forum for discussing immigration matters, judicial cooperation, detainee assistance, visas, and extradition. The agenda for the XI Meeting of the Colombian-United States Consular Affairs Group will address topics such as student visas, temporary workers, and other avenues involving various US agencies. The goal is to offer Colombians regular options for traveling and residing in the United States.
With a shared objective of bolstering migration management in Colombia, the United States will provide technical and financial support to enhance the capabilities of Colombia’s migration authority. Additionally, the US government pledges to maintain and potentially increase cooperation for development initiatives and programs aimed at facilitating the integration of migrant populations and host communities.
This initiative reflects the commitment of both countries to fostering conditions conducive to safe, organized, humane, and regular migration. It aligns with the principles of the Los Angeles Declaration on Migration and Protection, adopted on June 10, 2022, during the Summit of the Americas in Los Angeles, California.
General information on the ‘Safe Mobility’ program
The United States government announced the expansion of legal routes to the United States for refugees and migrants in South and Central America.
Through the ‘Safe Mobility’ program, eligible refugees and migrants will be considered for refugee and humanitarian admission programs, and other pathways for legal admission to the United States or other countries that may offer these opportunities. Individuals interested in relocating to the United States or other countries participating in the program should take advantage of these safe and legal processes.
The United States is establishing Safe Mobility Offices in some South and Central American countries, which will serve to direct refugees and migrants to legal routes and help them avoid risks associated with human mobility. The UN Refugee Agency (UNHCR), the International Organization for Migration (IOM) and other relevant partners are supporting this process.
At this time, the Safe Mobility Program is open for:
People of Cuban, Haitian and Venezuelan nationality in Colombia. The Safe Mobility in Colombia program helps refugees and migrants of Cuban, Haitian and Venezuelan nationality move safely and legally to the United States and other countries.
Read more about the Safe Mobility program in Colombia.
The Safe Mobility program in Guatemala for people of Guatemalan, Salvadoran, Honduran and Nicaraguan nationality. The program helps refugees and migrants travel safely and legally to the United States and other countries.
Read more about the Safe Mobility program in Guatemala.
Persons of Nicaraguan and Venezuelan nationality who were present in the territory of Costa Rica before June 12, 2023. The Movilidad Segura offices in Costa Rica will begin contacting persons of Nicaraguan and Venezuelan nationality to determine if they are eligible for protection or other legal means.
Read more about the Safe Mobility program in Costa Rica.
The new procedures offer safe and legal pathways into the United States, meaning refugees and migrants do not need to put their lives in the hands of smugglers and attempt journeys along dangerous and irregular routes. Eligible individuals will also have the opportunity to be considered for regular admission to other countries, such as Spain and Canada.
Soledad Quartucci |Founder, CEO Latina Republic
At Latina Republic our mission is to foster regional understanding through stories that resonate from the heart of the Americas. Our primary objective is to encourage peaceful dialogue by shedding light on local perspectives often overlooked by mainstream media. We aspire to empower all stakeholders in resolving regional challenges by disseminating this valuable knowledge. We strive to capture the triumphs and struggles of everyday life in Latin America. Our stories track the evolution of social movements, amplifying the voices of those pioneering change.
