CNN — The Biden administration has announced it will not extend legal permissions for certain migrants from Nicaragua, Cuba, Venezuela, and Haiti, who entered the U.S. through a temporary humanitarian program aimed at reducing illegal border crossings. This decision, confirmed by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), requires these migrants to explore other legal avenues to remain in the United States.
This program was initially established nearly two years ago to assist Venezuelans seeking entry into the U.S., allowing them to live and work temporarily in the country as a means to alleviate border surges. Participants were required to have a U.S. sponsor, undergo screening and vetting, and complete necessary vaccinations. The program was later expanded to include Nicaraguans, Cubans, and Haitians, positioned as a method for migrants to enter the U.S. in an orderly manner.
However, the initiative has sparked political controversy, with Republicans accusing the administration of misusing parole authority and criticizing President Joe Biden’s immigration policies. As of the end of August, around 530,000 migrants from these four countries had arrived in the U.S. under this policy, though the administration paused the program temporarily this summer due to concerns over fraud.
Officials from DHS insist the program was intended to be a temporary measure, allowing migrants to apply for other legal statuses while in the U.S. The program did not guarantee an extension, although re-parole was granted for Ukrainians and Afghans under similar programs. With the two-year parole for certain Venezuelans set to expire soon, immigration remains a significant issue as Election Day approaches, particularly between former President Donald Trump and Vice President Kamala Harris.
A Homeland Security spokesperson stated, “As initially stated in the Federal Register notices, a grant of parole under these processes was for a temporary period of up to two years. This two-year period was intended to enable individuals to seek humanitarian relief or other immigration benefits for which they may be eligible, and to work and contribute to the United States.”
While protections will eventually lapse, some individuals may have already applied for other legal permissions to stay in the U.S. Those who have not will be directed to apply for another status, depart the U.S., or face potential deportation, which could leave some in legal uncertainty.
Venezuelans and Haitians qualify for Temporary Protected Status, a form of humanitarian relief, and many who arrived under the program have already pursued that status. Cubans have a distinct pathway to permanent status, while Nicaraguans may face more limited options. Although asylum is available to individuals of all nationalities, not everyone meets the criteria.
House Homeland Security Committee Republicans criticized the administration, stating on X, “Parole may not be renewed for some Venezuelans flown in through the unlawful Biden-Harris CHNV program, but there are numerous other ways they could be allowed to stay.”
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