Trump's March 2025 Immigration Policies: The End of Humanitarian Parole and Its Impact on Cubans

In March 2025, President Donald Trump's administration rolled out stringent immigration policies, notably terminating the "humanitarian parole" initiative launched during the Biden era. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) declared that the temporary legal status of over 530,000 migrants from nations such as Cuba, Haiti, Nicaragua, and Venezuela would be rescinded. This action, documented in a Federal Register notice, will take effect on April 24, 2025, shortening the two-year permission initially granted to these migrants to live and work in the U.S. with temporary authorization. After this date, all beneficiaries will lose their legal status and work authorization, and according to DHS, they "must leave the country before their parole expires or face deportation."

Termination of Biden's Humanitarian Parole and Migration Programs

This policy change also involves the immediate halt of new entries under the program, including the cancellation of pending travel permits and sponsorship applications, along with work cards issued under this category. The official notice underscores that parole is inherently temporary and does not serve as a basis for obtaining permanent immigration status.

There will be no extensions or re-parole for those left without status after expiration. Individuals lacking another legal route to remain must exit the United States within 30 days. This drastic measure stems from Executive Order 14165, "Securing Our Borders," which directed DHS to dismantle categorical parole programs. Since returning to power, Trump has criticized Biden's mass parole processes as an overreach of congressional authority.

Impact on the Cuban Community: Parole, I-220A, I-220B Beneficiaries, and Asylum Seekers

The Cuban community in the U.S. is among those most affected by these changes. Cuba was one of the four countries included in the CHNV program, meaning thousands of Cubans will lose their residency permits following the parole's cancellation.

Official data indicates that approximately 110,900 Cubans legally entered the U.S. under this program between late 2022 and 2024. Many fled the severe economic and political crises on the island. After a year in the country, they could seek permanent residency under the Cuban Adjustment Act of 1966. However, thousands have yet to complete this process and now see their legal path endangered. The DHS decision also halted the processing of status adjustment applications, asylum claims, or other pending immigration benefits.

In addition to those who arrived by air with parole, tens of thousands of Cubans crossed the southern border during the 2021–2023 migration surge, receiving conditional release documents like I-220A or I-220B forms. An estimated 400,000 Cubans hold an I-220A, while similar numbers possess an I-220B. Combined, nearly 600,000 Cubans might be in this precarious position.

The I-220A is not an immigration permit but rather a conditional release during an ongoing deportation process. A 2023 court ruling affirmed it is not equivalent to parole, thus not qualifying for the Cuban Adjustment Act. Many of these Cubans can only apply for political asylum, although winning such cases is challenging.

Potential Mass Deportations and Cuban Community Anxiety

Migrant rights organizations and the Cuban community in the U.S. fear these policies could pave the way for widespread deportations. Once legal protection is lost on April 24, tens of thousands of Cubans could face immediate expulsion.

Expedited deportation allows for the removal of certain migrants without a court hearing. Under new ICE guidelines, even those who entered legally with parole or I-220A can be swiftly deported. DHS stated it would prioritize deporting those who have not initiated any legal proceedings (asylum, adjustment, TPS, etc.) by March 25, putting thousands of unregularized Cubans at risk.

Many Cubans have spent months or years establishing themselves in the U.S. with jobs, housing, and families. For them, deportation means a devastating disruption. Some have already been detained by ICE at routine appointments.

Official, Legal, and Social Reactions

Trump allies and conservative sectors commend the decision as a step towards restoring the rule of law, arguing that no beneficiary had an inherent right to remain and that parole was, by definition, temporary.

Conversely, pro-immigrant organizations, lawyers, and activists label the measure as reckless and harsh. They have launched campaigns to guide Cubans and offer legal support. Even Republican politicians like Congresswoman María Elvira Salazar have voiced concerns about the impact on Cubans without criminal records. Local governments also warn of potential economic and social harm.

Meanwhile, thousands of Cuban families live in fear and uncertainty, sharing how their "American dream" could be abruptly shattered. Some have started campaigns seeking legal aid before April 24.