Trump Administration Moves to Revoke Protections for Migrants from Cuba, Haiti, Nicaragua, and Venezuela

In a significant policy shift, the Trump administration is set to revoke temporary legal status for over 530,000 migrants from Cuba, Haiti, Nicaragua, and Venezuela, which could result in widespread deportations. The decision, criticized by advocates, may face legal challenges as affected individuals scramble for alternatives to remain in the U.S.

The Trump administration has announced plans to revoke the temporary legal status of over 530,000 migrants from Cuba, Haiti, Nicaragua, and Venezuela, causing concern and potential upheaval for these communities. Migrants have been warned to depart the U.S. before their permits and deportation protections are canceled on April 24, in a notice issued by the federal government.

These individuals had entered the country through the Biden-era sponsorship program known as CHNV, designed to create legal immigration pathways amidst rising numbers of crossings. Following his inauguration, Trump suspended the program, raising questions about the future legal status of many who were beneficiaries.

Originally launched in 2022 under President Joe Biden, the CHNV program provided a temporary immigration status called parole for families sponsored by American citizens, allowing them to stay for two years. The Biden administration claimed that this program would mitigate illegal border crossings while improving vetting procedures for migrants.

However, the Department of Homeland Security has criticized the program's effectiveness, stating that it created complications by allowing individuals to enter the U.S. while simultaneously undercutting job opportunities for American workers.

Despite the announcement, the 35-page notice issued in the Federal Register mentions that some beneficiaries of the CHNV program might be considered for legal status on a "case-by-case basis." Karen Tumlin, founder of the Justice Action Center in California, expressed her intention to challenge the decision legally, arguing that it jeopardizes those who complied with governmental requirements and expectations.

"This abrupt termination, especially if granted to individuals with a year and a half left of their permissions, is shocking," Tumlin remarked. Trump's administration is also exploring the possibility of revoking temporary legal protections for approximately 240,000 Ukrainians who escaped to the U.S. due to the Russian conflict.

Under CHNV, around 213,000 Haitians, 120,700 Venezuelans, 110,900 Cubans, and 93,000 Nicaraguans found refuge in the U.S. as conditions worsened in their home countries. Last month, DHS announced the impending end of another important immigration designation—temporary protected status (TPS)—for an additional 500,000 Haitians living in the U.S., which had already faced some pushback in court. The outcome of these recent developments reflects ongoing challenges to Trump's immigration policies, which have faced multiple legal barriers since his administration began.