The United States Customs and Border Protection (CBP) released its statistics for October 2024, indicating a significant shift in figures concerning the humanitarian parole program for citizens of Cuba, Haiti, Nicaragua, and Venezuela (CHNV). At first glance, these numbers might seem at odds with the previous report from October, but a closer look reveals stricter measures in granting these permits.
According to the latest CBP report, by the end of October 2024, a total of 110,980 Cubans were authorized to travel under this program, with 110,240 successfully reaching U.S. soil. Compared to September's figures, there was a decrease of 20 authorizations but a slight increase of 240 in arrivals. No new approvals were issued.
Tighter Approval Criteria Affecting Authorizations
The reduction in authorizations suggests tougher approval criteria, with more cases being denied following additional reviews by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). These measures include more stringent verification processes for U.S. sponsors, as well as enhanced biometric and biographical checks.
The modest rise in arrivals reflects a residual flow of beneficiaries who had previously secured their travel authorizations in earlier months.
Contrasting Figures: Setback or Adjustment?
The data from CBP, analyzed alongside insights from independent journalists like Mario J. Pentón, highlights an apparent contrast. While authorizations for parole have decreased, arrivals haven't followed a similar trend. This discrepancy can be attributed to the time lag between travel authorization and the logistical processes each beneficiary must navigate to reach their destination.
Overall, by October, a total of 531,620 individuals from the CHNV group have legally arrived in the U.S. with humanitarian parole permits. Since these measures were implemented, irregular crossings by Cuban, Haitian, Nicaraguan, and Venezuelan citizens at unofficial border points have dropped by 98%, which might be seen as a positive effect of providing legal avenues for safe and orderly migration.
However, President-elect Donald Trump has announced plans to terminate the humanitarian parole and the CBP One app appointments for migrants waiting to enter the U.S. legally via the Mexican border. These actions are expected to be among his first decisions when he assumes office in January 2025.
Although the days of the humanitarian parole program seem numbered, many Cubans still hold onto the hope of obtaining their travel permits and reuniting with family in the U.S. before Trump takes office.