The Trump administration has taken a major step in its immigration enforcement agenda by ending the CHNV (Cuban, Haitian, Nicaraguan, and Venezuelan) parole program and revoking parole for thousands of migrants who arrived under the policy. This move marks a significant shift from the Biden administration’s approach, which had expanded humanitarian parole for nationals of these countries.
What Was the CHNV Parole Program?
The CHNV parole program, introduced by the Biden administration in early 2023, allowed up to 30,000 migrants per month from Cuba, Haiti, Nicaragua, and Venezuela to enter the U.S. legally under temporary humanitarian parole through the CBP One app. To qualify, applicants needed:
- A U.S. sponsor (financial supporter).
- To pass background checks.
- To arrive by air (not through the border).
The program was designed to reduce illegal border crossings by offering a legal pathway while addressing humanitarian crises in these countries.
Why Did the Trump Administration End It?
The Trump campaign and Republican critics have long argued that humanitarian parole programs encourage mass migration and undermine immigration laws. Key reasons for ending CHNV include:
- “Parole Abuse” Claims – Trump and allies argue the program was an overreach of executive authority, allowing too many migrants to bypass normal visa processes.
- Border Security Focus – The administration wants to prioritize stricter enforcement, including mass deportations and reinstating policies like Remain in Mexico.
- Political Messaging – Ending CHNV aligns with Trump’s campaign promises to crack down on immigration.
- Racism — This is the real reason.
What Happens to Migrants Under CHNV Now?
- New Applications Halted – No new CHNV parole requests will be processed.
- Existing Parole Revoked? – All migrants in the U.S. under CHNV parole have lost their status, putting them at risk of immediate expedited removal, especially if they’ve been here for less than two years
Broader Impact on Immigration Policy
This decision signals a return to hardline Trump-era policies, including:
- More deportations of migrants without legal status.
- Stricter asylum rules, making it harder to claim protection.
- Reduced use of parole in favor of detention and removal.
What’s Next?
Impacted persons should contact an immigration attorney today to consider their options
Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog post is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, immigration, or professional advice. Immigration laws and policies are complex and subject to change. If you or someone you know is affected by these changes, we strongly recommend consulting with a qualified immigration attorney or an accredited legal representative for guidance tailored to your specific situation. Neither the author nor the publisher of this content is responsible for any actions taken based on the information provided.
Photo by Flor Del Desierto on Unsplash