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Venezuelan doctor detained at airport despite work permit, released after judge orders bail

May 13, 2026 · Texas, Venezuela

Venezuelan doctor detained at airport despite work permit, released after judge orders bail

Dr. Rubeliz Bolívar, a Venezuelan physician working at South Texas Health System, was detained by CBP in mid-April 2026 at McAllen International Airport while attempting to board a flight with her five-year-old U.S. citizen daughter. CBP claimed she had overstayed a visa that expired in 2017, despite her holding a valid work permit and having a pending green card application and active asylum proceedings. Her daughter was held briefly before being released to her maternal grandparents. After approximately one month in El Valle Detention Facility in Raymondville, a judge ordered Bolívar's release on bail on May 13, 2026, and she was reunited with her family. Her attorneys are appealing ICE's allegations that she violated visa conditions.

Timeline

May 13, 2026Judge ordered Bolívar's release on bail; she was released from detention and reunited with her family
Apr 13, 2026Dr. Rubeliz Bolívar detained by CBP at McAllen International Airport; her 5-year-old U.S. citizen daughter held in custody for over 16 hours, then released to maternal grandparents
Apr 13, 2026Bolívar transferred to El Valle Detention Facility in Raymondville; family expresses concern she will miss her scheduled immigration hearing

Sources

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