The decision is set to impact more than 500,000 migrants from Cuba, Haiti, Nicaragua, and Venezuela.
What is the CHNV Parole Program?
The CHNV Parole Program consisted of four programs that similarly granted immigration parole, which is travel authorization, to Cuban, Haitian, Nicaraguan, and Venezuelan nationals. These programs allowed specific individuals from these countries to enter the United States for humanitarian reasons or significant public benefit and be considered for a two-year stay. Once in the U.S., they were able to apply for employment authorization. Paroled persons could also seek other immigration statuses, like Temporary Protected Status, the Cuban Adjustment Act, asylum, or adjusting status through marriage, just to mention a few.
How many people did this program benefit?
As of November 2024, almost 532,000 people had been granted parole under this program. The breakdown by country is as follows:
How did the program work?
Individuals applying for parole through one of the CHNV’s four programs required a sponsor who agreed to provide financial support. The individual would then have to pass a national security and public safety vetting process and fly into the country at their own expense. Upon arrival, each individual was evaluated for parole on a person-by-person basis and either approved or denied.
What was the purpose of the CHNV Parole Program?
The program intended to reduce the number of unauthorized border crossings at the southern border with Mexico and provide an avenue for individuals seeking humanitarian protection to enter the country safely and orderly. It also aimed at reducing the number of people making a dangerous journey north, resorting to migrant smuggling and human trafficking. Furthermore, the program was a regular migration pathway demonstrating possibilities for future needs.
What does its termination imply?
On March 25, 2025, the Department of Homeland Security announced the termination of the CHNV Parole Program, effective 30 days after the publication of the corresponding notice in the Federal Register. On April 24, 2025, those who have not applied for or obtained some other immigration status or relief will be asked to depart the country. Work authorizations will also expire on that date unless acquired through another immigration status. Any approved or pending sponsor and parole applications will also be canceled.
What options do beneficiaries of this program have?
CHNV beneficiaries should seek immigration legal advice immediately.
