Humanitarian Parole

Temporary Stay for Cubans, Venezuelans, Haitians, and Nicaraguans

The U.S. government has implemented a Humanitarian Parole process, allowing up to 30,000 citizens from Cuba, Haiti, Nicaragua, and Venezuela to apply for temporary stay in the country. This program offers a fair opportunity for individuals seeking to enter the U.S. for humanitarian reasons or significant public benefit.

 

The application process is entirely free. Beneficiaries and their sponsors in the U.S. are not required to pay any fees to the U.S. government. Be cautious of fraud; no one should charge for assistance.

 

 

Application Review Update

 

New Review System: USCIS now divides the review process into two parts. Half of the I-134A forms (submitted by sponsors) are randomly selected each month, while the other half are reviewed chronologically, prioritizing older applications. This aims to ensure fairness.

 

 

Eligibility Requirements

 

To qualify, beneficiaries must meet the following conditions:

 

1. Be a national of Cuba, Haiti, Nicaragua, or Venezuela, or an immediate family member (spouse or unmarried child under 21) traveling with an eligible national.

 

2. Have a U.S.-based sponsor (citizen or someone with legal status in the U.S.).

 

3. Undergo security screenings, including background checks and biometrics.

 

4. Hold a valid passport and meet public health requirements, such as vaccinations.

 

 

Sponsor’s Role

 

A sponsor is a person who commits to financially supporting the beneficiary during their stay in the U.S. This sponsor can be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident, or someone with temporary protected status (TPS).

 

Sponsors are responsible for providing financial support and housing for individuals entering under Humanitarian Parole. They must demonstrate sufficient resources to support the beneficiary during their stay, including facilitating access to medical care and education.

 

Organizations, businesses, or groups can assist in providing support, but one individual must file and sign the I-134A form. With the increasing importance of sponsors, the goal is to ensure those entering have adequate support and do not become a public burden.

 

 

Step-by-Step Process

 

1. Submit Form I-134A: The sponsor submits this form for each beneficiary, including minors.

 

2. Sponsor Confirmation: USCIS reviews the sponsor’s ability to fulfill their financial obligations.

 

3. Provide Biographical Information: The beneficiary submits their details via the online platform myUSCIS.

 

4. Use CBP One App: The beneficiary must input their information and photo in this mobile app.

 

5. Travel Authorization: Once approved, the beneficiary receives a 90-day travel authorization.

 

6. Inspection at Entry Port: Upon arrival, CBP inspects the beneficiary and decides whether to grant a temporary stay.

 

7. Temporary Stay: If approved, the beneficiary can stay in the U.S. for two years, with the option to apply for work authorization and a Social Security number.

 

 

Ineligibility for Humanitarian Parole:

 

An individual may be ineligible if:

 

1. They fail security and public safety screenings.

2. They received a removal order from the U.S. within the last five years.

3. They crossed the U.S. border irregularly after the program announcement dates.

4. They are under 18 and are not traveling with a parent or legal guardian.

 

 

Special Notice for Venezuelan Passports

 

Beneficiaries must have a valid passport. Extensions certified by the Venezuelan government are acceptable. Per the 2024 decree, Venezuelan passports remain valid for ten years beyond the printed expiration date or the latest extension date, whichever is later.

 

 

Unaccompanied Minors

 

Children under 18 traveling without their parents or legal guardians are not eligible for Humanitarian Parole. If a minor arrives unaccompanied, they may be placed under the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) custody. Minors traveling to reunite with their parents can apply for a temporary stay through a different process (Form I-131).

 

The Humanitarian Parole process provides a vital opportunity for individuals from Cuba, Haiti, Nicaragua, and Venezuela seeking refuge for humanitarian reasons. Following each step is crucial for a smooth and legal experience.

If you have additional questions or need professional guidance, Oasis Legal Group is here to help. Our immigration specialists can support you throughout the process and ensure compliance with all requirements.

 

 

Frequently Asked Questions

 

Who can apply for Humanitarian Parole?

 

Citizens of Cuba, Haiti, Nicaragua, and Venezuela, as well as their immediate family members traveling with them, can apply if they meet the criteria.

 

Are there any fees to apply for this process?

 

No, the process is entirely free. Neither beneficiaries nor sponsors must pay the U.S. government to submit Form I-134A.

 

How are applications reviewed?

 

USCIS reviews half of the I-134A applications randomly each month, while the other half are processed chronologically, prioritizing older applications.

 

Can I participate in this process if I have dual nationality?

 

No, individuals with dual nationality or permanent residence in another country are not eligible, unless the DHS has a similar process for nationals of that country.

 

What if my Venezuelan passport is expired?

 

Venezuelan passports are considered valid for ten years beyond their expiration date if they have a certified extension.