On Tuesday, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) officially announced the termination of parole processes for Cubans, Haitians, Nicaraguans, and Venezuelans. As expected, the notice, signed by Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem, was published in the Federal Register, making official the decision to end the conditional entry programs known as CHNV. These programs were established to allow the orderly and controlled entry of citizens from these four countries into the United States.
This decision is set to have a profound impact on thousands of individuals and families who have relied on this mechanism to legally remain in the U.S.
What is the End Date for the CHNV Programs?
The official termination date for the CHNV programs is March 25, 2025. The DHS has stated that as part of the termination, parole granted under these programs will end on April 24, 2025, unless an exception is determined by the Department. This means individuals on parole without a legal basis to remain in the U.S. after the programs end must leave before their parole expires.
Reasons Behind Ending the CHNV Programs
The termination comes as a result of a significant shift in immigration policy following the new administration's approach. Specifically, on January 20, 2025, President Donald Trump issued Executive Order 14165, “Securing Our Borders,” mandating the end of all categorical parole programs that contradict the new immigration directives.
The DHS has pointed out that the humanitarian parole program does not provide significant public benefit, is unnecessary for reducing illegal immigration, and fails to sufficiently mitigate internal effects of illegal immigration. Furthermore, it is seen as incompatible with the Administration's foreign policy goals.
Impact on Current CHNV Program Beneficiaries
Approximately 532,000 foreigners who entered the U.S. under the CHNV programs now face potential deportation if they have not regularized their status. From April 24, 2025, all active paroles will be considered terminated unless a valid legal process like asylum or status adjustment has been initiated. Those who have not begun such processes must leave the U.S. before this date to avoid expedited deportation proceedings.
The DHS also notes that employment authorization will be revoked upon parole expiration, the start of deportation proceedings, or if voluntary departure is granted.
What About Pending Applications or Approved Travel Authorizations?
The government will cancel all pending and unused Advance Travel Authorizations (ATA). Additionally, all approved Form I-134A documents will be rescinded, with notifications sent to both applicants and sponsors. Although recognizing the potential financial and personal impacts, the DHS emphasized that these programs were discretionary, temporary, and subject to termination at any time.
Justification for the DHS Decision
Border security issues were highlighted as a key reason for the program's termination. Despite reducing illegal crossings, the overall migration volume remained high, and the CHNV programs failed to effectively manage irregular migration flows. The massive arrival of paroled individuals strained public services, state and local resources, and the immigration system, including increased asylum requests and court delays.
The DHS maintains that national interests take precedence over the expectations of sponsors, beneficiaries, and third parties. The sovereignty of the U.S. government to control its borders and immigration system is paramount.
Guidance for Parolees
The DHS has set a 30-day period starting March 25 for beneficiaries without legal grounds to voluntarily depart the country. Failure to do so will subject them to coercive measures, including expedited deportation. Those who have initiated valid immigration processes are not required to leave but must present evidence to avoid penalties or deportation proceedings.
Is There Any Chance for Extension or Reconsideration?
No. The DHS has clearly stated that this decision is final, and the 30-day transition period from the notice date is the only grace period for those under parole. This gradual reduction period is intended to provide adequate notice while allowing the DHS to enforce the law promptly.
Official Communication Channels
The notice in the Federal Register serves as the legally binding official notification for all affected individuals. Additionally, the DHS will notify each person through their USCIS online account, ensuring the message reaches everyone, even those who haven't updated their postal address.
The termination of the CHNV programs represents a dramatic shift in U.S. immigration policy. Beneficiaries from Cuba, Haiti, Nicaragua, and Venezuela must make urgent and informed decisions. It is crucial to understand that parole is not a guaranteed right nor a pathway to permanent residency, as emphasized by the DHS. While acknowledging the personal, economic, and social impacts of its decision, the DHS reiterates that the U.S. government's sovereign interest in determining who receives conditional entry outweighs other considerations.
FAQs on the Termination of CHNV Programs
What is the deadline for CHNV program beneficiaries to leave the U.S.?
Beneficiaries without a legal basis to stay must depart by April 24, 2025, or face expedited deportation.
Will employment authorization be affected by the termination?
Yes, employment authorization will be revoked upon parole expiration, initiation of deportation proceedings, or if voluntary departure is granted.
Are there any exceptions to the termination of the CHNV programs?
Exceptions may be determined by the DHS, but generally, the termination is final with no extensions or reconsiderations.