Trump Revokes Legal Status for 530,000 Cubans, Haitians, Nicaraguans, and Venezuelans

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has announced the termination of the Cuba, Haiti, Nicaragua, and Venezuela (CHNV) parole program, revoking temporary legal status for more than 530,000 migrants. The decision, published in the Federal Register on Friday, March 21st, takes effect on April 24, 2025.

The CHNV program, introduced under the Biden administration, allowed migrants from these four countries to enter the U.S. legally with financial sponsors, granting them two-year work permits and temporary protection from deportation. The Trump administration suspended new admissions under the program upon taking office, and the legal status of those already in the country under it has ended.

DHS stated that affected individuals without another legal basis to stay in the U.S. must leave before their parole expires. The agency criticized the previous administration’s program handling, claiming it led to job competition and security concerns. A DHS official said the program had been exploited and described its termination as a return to “common-sense policies.”

The decision has already faced legal challenges. Immigration advocates argue that many affected individuals followed legal procedures and now face uncertainty. A lawsuit has been filed seeking to reinstate the program, with plaintiffs claiming the move unfairly targets those who complied with government requirements.

The revocation could leave many at risk of deportation if they remain in the U.S. without an alternative legal status. Legal experts advise affected individuals to explore options such as Temporary Protected Status or asylum applications before the deadline.