
In a significant policy shift, the US. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has announced the revocation of legal protections for approximately 532,000 migrants from Cuba, Haiti, Nicaragua, and Venezuela.
These individuals had entered the United States under a humanitarian parole program initiated during the Biden administration.
The affected migrants, who arrived since October 2022 with financial sponsors, were granted two-year residency and work permits.
However, the DHS now states that these protections will terminate on April 24, 2025, or 30 days following the notice’s publication in the Federal Register.
Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem commented that the original rationale for the parole program no longer exists, leading to its termination.
Critics argue that this decision could lead to unnecessary chaos and distress among families and communities across the country.
The humanitarian parole program was initially designed to reduce illegal border crossings by providing legal pathways for migrants.
Its termination has raised concerns about the future of U.S. immigration policy and the status of other temporary protection programs. Legal challenges are expected as advocacy groups prepare to contest the revocation of these protections.
The DHS has advised affected individuals to consult with immigration attorneys to explore their options.
As the situation develops, the impacted migrants face an uncertain future, with potential deportations looming if no legal remedies are found.