Parole Program for Cubans, Haitians, Nicaraguans and Venezuelans

Starting January 6, 2023, the Department of Homeland Security begun vetting certain nationals from Cuba, Haiti, Nicaragua, and Venezuela for consideration as parolees. To qualify, those seeking entry to the United States must have a sponsor in the United States.  Decisions are made on a case by case basis. Those who are approved will be given authorization to travel to the U.S. Furthermore, those approved will be  allowed to remain in the United States for up to two years.  The benefit not only extends to qualifying nationals but also applies to their Immediate family members. Immediate family members have been defined as:

  • A common law partner or a spouse; and
  • An unmarried child or children under the age of 21.

What do you need to qualify for this parole program?

While decisions are made on a case by case basis, in order to be eligible, applicants must meet certain requirements for entry including but not limited to the following:

  • Possess an unexpired passport;
  • Pass certain security vetting;
  • Comply with public health requirement and guidelines ( which includes vaccinations); and
  • Have a supporter in the UI.S. who is either a U.S. citizen, national, or lawful permanent resident or hold some other lawful status in the U.S.

What are some of the benefits of having parolee status?

Approved nationals will be able to work lawfully and obtain a social security number after they are paroled in the United States.  In order to qualify for work authorization, a parolee will need to complete Form I -765 -Application for Employment Authorization.  Next, he/she can apply for a social security number either as part of the application made on Form I-765, or directly with  Social Security on their webpage.

How is the parole program process started?

A Beneficiary cannot directly apply for the parole program.  A U.S. Sponsor must begin the process first by filing Form I-134A with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (“USCIS”) on behalf of a beneficiary. Additionally, the Sponsor will need to provide proof of  lawful status in the United States. Furthermore, the sponsor will also need to provide proof of income and assets and be able to explain how he/she will help meet the needs of the beneficiary. These needs include housing, financial support, employment, learning English etc. Once the supporter information is received and confirmed, USCIS will next communicate with the beneficiary (via email) as to the steps to set up an account and submit information for vetting.

Contact your Orlando Immigration Lawyer today for further questions and information on this parole program.