DHS has announced a new process through which Cubans, Haitians, Nicaraguans, and Venezuelans may request to come to the US safely. Qualified beneficiaries who are outside the U.S. and lack entry documents may be considered on a case-by-case basis for early authorization to travel and a temporary parole period for up to two years for urgent humanitarian reasons.

DHS’ Eligibility Criteria

To participate, eligible beneficiaries must have a supporter in the United States, undergo security vetting, and meet certain eligibility criteria.

• Beneficiary must reside outside the U.S.

• Beneficiary must be a national of Cuba, Haiti, Nicaragua, or Venezuela; or be an immediate family member who is traveling with an eligible Cuban, Haitian, Nicaraguan, or Venezuelan.

• Beneficiary must have a U.S.-based supporter who filed a Form I-134A on their behalf that USCIS has approved.

• Beneficiary must possess an unexpired passport valid for international travel.

• Beneficiary must financially provide for their own commercial travel.

• Beneficiary must pass the required security vetting put in place.

• Beneficiary must comply with all additional requirements, including vaccination requirements and other public health guidelines.

• Beneficiary must demonstrate that a grant of parole is warranted based on significant public benefit or urgent humanitarian reasons.

Supporters’ Criteria

Supporters can be individuals filing independently, filing with other individuals, or filing on behalf of organizations, businesses, or other entities. There is no fee required to file Form I-134A. The supporter will be vetted by the U.S. government to protect against exploitation and abuse and to ensure that they are able to financially support the beneficiary they are agreeing to support.

To serve as a supporter, an individual or individual representing an entity must:

• Be a U.S. citizen, national, or lawful permanent resident; hold a lawful status in the United States such as Temporary Protected Status or asylum; or be a parolee or recipient of deferred action or Deferred Enforced Departure;
• Pass security and background vetting, including for public safety, national security, human trafficking, and exploitation concerns; and
• Demonstrate sufficient financial resources to receive, maintain, and support the individuals they are agreeing to support for the duration of their parole period.

Cubans, Haitians, Nicaraguans, and Venezuelans

DHS strongly encourages Cubans, Haitians, Nicaraguans, and Venezuelans seeking entry in the U.S. who do not have and are not eligible for a visa to instead seek entry via this process. This will be the safest and most effective way to pursue a temporary stay in the United States. Individuals complete the process electronically and should not approach the border to access this process.

Are you or a loved one affected by the new regulations? Contact us today for a free consultation.

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