BREAKING NEWS: CHNV Humanitarian Parole Terminated by Trump. Now What?

The CHNV program, officially called Processes for Cubans, Haitians, Nicaraguans, and Venezuelans, was a humanitarian initiative by the Biden administration launched in early 2023. It allowed certain nationals from these countries to reside and work in the U.S. temporarily, under humanitarian parole, for up to two years. The program aimed to provide a safe haven for individuals from regions experiencing severe economic crises and political instability.

The CHNV program was terminated as part of the “Securing Our Borders” executive order issued by the current administration on January 20, 2025. This abrupt cessation halted the acceptance of new applications and renewal of existing paroles, significantly impacting those who relied on this program for safety and employment in the U.S.

• Non-renewal of Parole: Parolees cannot renew their status under the CHNV program.
• No new applications accepted: As of January 20, 2025, the U.S. government is no longer accepting new applications for the program.
• End of sponsorship: U.S. citizens and residents can no longer sponsor individuals from Cuba, Haiti, Nicaragua, and Venezuela through this pathway.
• Risk of deportation: ICE has been authorized to arrest, detain, and deport some individuals who entered legally under this program. Over a million immigrants could be affected by expanded deportation priorities. Expedited removal procedures are being enforced nationwide, not just at the southern border.
• Legal limbo for current beneficiaries: Those already paroled under CHNV may lose their status as their two-year parole periods expire. Without an alternative legal status (e.g., asylum, TPS), they may face deportation.
• Invalid Applications: Applications not fully processed by the termination date are now void and will not be considered.

1. Asylum

• Individuals who fear persecution in their home country due to race, religion, nationality, political opinion, or membership in a particular social group may apply for asylum.
• Must apply within one year of arrival in the U.S., unless they qualify for an exception.
• If granted, asylum provides a path to a green card and eventually U.S. citizenship.

2. Temporary Protected Status (TPS)

• Some CHNV beneficiaries may qualify for TPS, which is available for certain nationals of designated countries experiencing war, natural disasters, or other dangerous conditions.
• Currently, Venezuela, Haiti, and Nicaragua have active TPS designations.
• Cuba does not have TPS, but other humanitarian relief options may apply.

3. Family-Based Green Cards

• Those with U.S. citizen or permanent resident relatives (spouse, parent, child, or sibling) may be eligible for a family-based immigrant visa.
• Processing times vary, and some categories have long wait periods.

4. U Visa (Victims of Crime)

• Those who have been victims of serious crimes in the U.S. (such as domestic violence, assault, or human trafficking) and have helped law enforcement may qualify for a U visa.
• A U visa allows work authorization and can lead to a green card.

5. VAWA (Violence Against Women Act) Petition

• Victims of domestic violence who are married to a U.S. citizen or permanent resident may self-petition for a green card without the abuser’s involvement.
• Applies to both men and women experiencing abuse.

6. Work Visas or Employer Sponsorship

• If an individual qualifies for a work visa, such as an H-1B (skilled workers) or O-1 (extraordinary ability) visa, they could obtain legal status through employment.
• Some employers may also sponsor workers for employment-based green cards.

7. Special Immigrant Juvenile Status (SIJS)

• If an affected individual is a child under 21 and has been abused, neglected, or abandoned, they may qualify for SIJS, which can lead to a green card.

8. Cuban Adjustment Act (For Cuban Nationals Only)

• Cubans who have been physically present in the U.S. for at least one year may apply for permanent residency under the Cuban Adjustment Act (CAA).
• The two-year parole under CHNV may count toward this requirement.

• Consult an Immigration Attorney ASAP: Every case is unique, and professional legal guidance is crucial. An attorney can help determine the best alternative legal options for your situation.
• Check If You Qualify for an Alternative Legal Status: Explore options such as asylum, TPS, family-based green cards, U visas, VAWA, employment visas, SIJS, or the Cuban Adjustment Act. File applications as soon as possible, as some options have deadlines.
• Keep All Immigration Documents Updated: Make copies of your CHNV approval notice, work permit, and any pending applications. Stay aware of expiration dates for any documents or status you currently have.
• Avoid Legal Issues: Any criminal charges, arrests, or violations of immigration laws can negatively impact future applications. Follow all immigration court orders and deadlines if you have an ongoing case.
• Stay Informed About Policy Changes: Immigration policies can change, so stay updated through official government sources, immigration attorneys, or trusted organizations.
• Prepare a Safety Plan in Case of Enforcement Actions: If you fear ICE enforcement, have a plan:  1) Keep emergency contacts and an attorney’s phone number accessible.  2) Know your rights if approached by immigration officers. 3) Do not sign any documents without legal advice.