CHNV Program Termination: What It Means for Immigrants

Many families feel uneasy about the recent CHNV program termination announcements. Uncertainty remains about who will be affected and when. 

At Wogwu Law, we aim to answer your questions with empathy and clarity, while reminding you that this is general guidance, not legal advice. Whether you’re from Cuba, Haiti, Nicaragua, or Venezuela, we hope these insights help explain what the program’s end may mean.

CHNV Parole Program: An Overview

The CHNV parole process began in January 2023 as an avenue for individuals from Cuba, Haiti, Nicaragua, and Venezuela to enter the United States temporarily. Government figures indicate that about 532,000 people were approved for this parole, making it a widely discussed response to humanitarian needs.

Sponsors in the United States often included relatives, churches, or community-based groups. They were required to show financial readiness and a clear reason why the individual deserved parole.

For many, it was a shot at safety and a period of stability for up to two years. Some were then able to file for more long-term options, while others simply worked and waited for policy updates.

Under this plan, folks were often thankful for a chance to earn income and settle in local communities, but new questions are emerging now that the program is scheduled to end.

What Does the CHNV Program Termination Mean?

The recent termination notice states that parole granted under CHNV will be cut short. Individuals who do not hold any other lawful status are expected to depart before their parole ends.

However, anyone who has managed to secure an alternate status in the U.S. can remain without penalty. Affected persons may also lose their work permit unless they hold or apply for a different category that allows them to work.

For many who arrived through this route, the impact goes beyond where they can live. Their ability to earn wages is now in question if they have no other documented pathway.

Legal Challenges and Temporary Suspensions

Various lawsuits have been filed in response to the agency’s shutdown of CHNV parole. One federal judge issued an injunction, halting the termination for the time being.

According to official statements, the CHNV parole processes will continue to be honored while court proceedings move forward. This means that any planned revocation of work authorization or large-scale removal may be paused until further rulings emerge.

Employers who had begun preparations to reverify or let go of employees based on the prior cut-off date should wait. Documentation tied to CHNV parole is still recognized unless new orders or directives say otherwise.

All this legal back-and-forth can build anxiety for both workers and employers, especially when they are uncertain about how quickly things might shift.

Impact on Employers and Employees

Employers should not rely on the old termination date to suspend or remove CHNV parole employees. Waiting for clear guidance from U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) or legal advisers is often the safer route.

It also helps to treat employees evenly so that no single group faces unfair scrutiny. By staying transparent and keeping consistent internal practices, workplaces can minimize confusion.

Once the court battles conclude, CHNV parole holders who lack any new status may lose the right to work. Those who hold other forms of protection, such as Temporary Protected Status (TPS) or asylum-based work permits, should still be able to continue their employment.

Here are a few steps for employers to keep in mind:

• Keep up with official notices from USCIS or DHS.
• Avoid any abrupt changes to payroll or staffing solely based on rumored deadlines.
• Encourage employees to share any updates that affect their ability to work.

Sticking to these suggestions can help companies avoid missteps involving authorized staff members.

Though the CHNV program is in limbo, there could be alternate ways to remain in the country.

Potential Immigration Relief Options

Individuals who relied on parole from CHNV are encouraged to ask if they fit another route for immigration relief. These include asylum, TPS, and various visa or green card categories.

Cuban nationals may seek a more straightforward option under the Cuban Adjustment Act. Meanwhile, anyone who has applied for asylum or has a pending TPS claim might be less likely to face enforcement actions right now.

Before committing to any plan, it’s wise to review the requirements and gather crucial documentation. Taking action sooner rather than later can ease the strain that comes with shifting policies.

Potential routes include:

1. Asylum applications are for those with well-founded fears in their home country.
2. TPS designations that may grant a temporary stay and work permit.
3. Family-based petitions lead to permanent residence if eligibility is met.
4. Employment-based petitions or special visas, depending on the individual’s job skills.

Acting in a timely fashion helps preserve options for remaining lawfully in the U.S.

Need Assistance with Your Immigration Case? Contact Wogwu Law, PLLC

Wogwu Law takes pride in standing up globally for those with immigration concerns, whether it’s about parole, visas, or other pathways. Our background includes assisting individuals and families at diverse stages of the immigration process. We aim to help clients find a route that fits their needs and goals.

If you feel stuck or confused by changing policies, you are welcome to request a consultation. Our phone number is 919-964-5472, or you can visit our contact page.