As the Humanitarian Parole program for Haitian, Cuban, Venezuelan, and Nicaraguan nationals comes to an end, many Haitian immigrants in the U.S. face the risk of losing their legal status. The U.S. government has decided not to extend the parole for these migrants, prompting the need for urgent action to avoid deportation.
Exploring Legal Options
For those affected, finding alternative legal pathways is crucial. Maria Huel, a supervising paralegal and DOJ-accredited representative at the New York Legal Assistance Group (NYLAG), discussed the parole program with The Haitian Times and outlined important considerations as it concludes.
What is Humanitarian Parole?
Humanitarian Parole allows beneficiaries to enter and work legally in the U.S. for two years if they have a sponsor in the country. Huel stated, “Recently, due to political pressures, the U.S. government decided not to renew ‘parole’ status for migrants from Cuba, Nicaragua, Haiti, and Venezuela.”
Under this program, individuals can stay in the U.S. for two years, regardless of their work permit duration. Huel emphasized the urgency for many beneficiaries to explore other immigration options and understand their rights in case they encounter immigration authorities.
Immediate Steps: Know Your Legal Options
If you or someone you know is affected by the expiration of Humanitarian Parole, it’s essential to consult with an immigration attorney or accredited representative as soon as possible. While seeking legal help can feel overwhelming, the New York Immigration Coalition offers a list of low-cost immigration service providers.
Here are some legal pathways to discuss with a professional:
Temporary Protected Status (TPS): TPS is available to many Haitians who have continuously lived in the U.S. before a certain date. It offers protection from deportation and the ability to work but does not lead to permanent residency. “Migrants from Venezuela and Haiti who entered the U.S. with ‘parole’ before July 2023 and June 2024 can apply for TPS,” Huel noted.
Asylum: Haitian immigrants who fear persecution upon returning to Haiti may apply for asylum. This process can be complex and usually requires legal help to prove eligibility.
Adjustment of Status through Family Sponsorship: If you have an immediate relative (spouse, parent, or child over 21) who is a U.S. citizen or permanent resident willing to petition for you, you may qualify for a green card.
Other Options: Some individuals might be eligible for relief through programs like:
VAWA (Violence Against Women Act): For victims of abuse by a U.S. citizen or permanent resident.
U Visa: For victims of crimes who have assisted law enforcement.
Student Visa: For those pursuing education in the U.S.
Work Visa: For individuals with a job offer from a U.S. employer.
SIJ (Special Immigrant Juvenile) Status: For minors under 21 who have been abused, neglected, or abandoned by one or both parents, with a state court determination that they cannot be reunited with their family.
It’s important to determine eligibility for these programs quickly, as many have deadlines that could affect your ability to apply.
Urgency of Legal Advice
Huel stresses the need for prompt legal advice: “Individuals in this situation must seek legal guidance immediately. They may qualify for other forms of immigration relief, such as VAWA, U Visa, student visa, or work visa.” Only DOJ-accredited representatives and attorneys can assess an individual’s eligibility for these options.
“Relying on Parole should not be the main plan for legal status,” Huel warns.
“Anyone affected should consult with an attorney as soon as possible, as many of these immigration relief options have deadlines for applications.”
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