The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has officially announced the termination of humanitarian parole programs for nationals of Cuba, Haiti, Nicaragua, and Venezuela (CHNV). Effective March 25, 2025, this policy change impacts thousands of individuals currently in the U.S. under temporary parole status and raises critical considerations for employers, workers, and those seeking alternative immigration options.
Here’s what you need to know about this development and how it may affect you or your workforce.
Overview of DHS Policy Change
Under the new DHS directive, the following changes have been implemented:
- All pending CHNV parole applications will be denied.
- Previously approved applications for individuals who have not yet entered the U.S. will be rescinded.
- Parolees currently in the U.S. under the CHNV programs must depart within 30 days (by April 24, 2025), unless they have a pending application for another immigration benefit.
- Work permits (EADs) issued under humanitarian parole will be voided.
- DHS will prioritize the removal of individuals who remain in the U.S. beyond the April 24 deadline without independent immigration options.
This decision represents a notable policy shift, underscoring the administration’s commitment to reducing overall immigration levels and strengthening border security measures.
Background on the CHNV Parole Programs
The CHNV parole programs were originally established between 2022 and 2023, modeled after the Uniting for Ukraine initiative. These programs allowed nationals of Cuba, Haiti, Nicaragua, and Venezuela to enter the U.S. under humanitarian parole with the support of a U.S.-based sponsor. Once admitted, parolees were eligible to apply for employment authorization (EADs) and seek lawful work opportunities.
The key objectives of these programs were:
- Reducing irregular migration at the U.S.-Mexico border.
- Providing a safer alternative to unauthorized border crossings.
- Granting work authorization to individuals who could contribute to the U.S. economy.
DHS concluded that the program did not achieve its intended goal of significantly lowering unlawful border crossings. Additionally, the agency cited concerns over increased strain on government resources as a key factor in its decision to end the initiative.
Impact on Employers
The sudden revocation of work permits for CHNV parolees presents immediate compliance challenges for U.S. employers.
- Employers should review I-9 records to identify employees whose work authorization will expire on April 24, 2025.
- Affected employees must have an alternative immigration status that allows them to continue working legally.
- Employers are not yet required to update I-9 records proactively, but DHS may issue new reverification mandates in the coming weeks.
- If an employee’s work permit expires, the employer must remove them from payroll to remain in compliance with federal labor laws.
What Employers Should Do Now
- Conduct an internal audit of I-9 records to assess how many employees are affected.
- Communicate with impacted workers about their options and the upcoming work authorization deadline.
- Prepare alternative recruitment strategies to replace departing employees, ensuring minimal business disruption.
- Consult legal counsel for assistance with I-9 compliance and identifying potential immigration pathways for affected workers.
Options for CHNV Nationals Currently in the U.S.
For individuals affected by this policy change, understanding available immigration pathways is critical.
1. Individuals with Pending Immigration Applications
- If you already applied for an adjustment of status, asylum, or another legal immigration benefit, you do not need to depart the U.S. before April 24, 2025.
- However, you may still face increased scrutiny or potential enforcement actions.
2. Exploring Other Immigration Pathways
If you are solely relying on CHNV parole and do not have another pending application, you may need to identify alternative options such as:
- Employment-Based Visas – If you have a U.S. employer willing to sponsor you, consider applying for H-1B, O-1, or TN visas (if eligible).
- Asylum or Humanitarian Relief – If you have a well-founded fear of persecution, you may consider applying for asylum.
- Family-Based Sponsorship – If you have a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident relative, you may be eligible for a family-sponsored green card.
3. Consequences of Overstaying
- Individuals who remain in the U.S. past April 24, 2025, without an alternative status may be placed in removal proceedings.
- DHS will focus its enforcement efforts on removing CHNV parolees who remain past the deadline.
- Expedited removal procedures may apply, increasing the risk of deportation.
Final Thoughts
The termination of CHNV parole programs represents a significant shift in U.S. immigration policy, impacting tens of thousands of individuals and their employers. Immediate action is required to ensure compliance and explore potential immigration alternatives before the April 24, 2025, deadline.
Key Takeaways:
- CHNV parole benefits have been rescinded, requiring immediate action for affected individuals.
- Work permits (EADs) issued under CHNV parole will be voided, making reemployment planning essential.
- Employers should assess I-9 compliance and prepare for potential workforce disruptions.
- Affected individuals should explore alternative immigration options to avoid removal.
Need Assistance?
If you are an affected worker, employer, or sponsor, the NPZ Law Group can provide guidance on immigration options, I-9 compliance, and alternative pathways.
Contact us today to schedule a consultation and ensure your legal status and work authorization remain intact.