On April 17, 2025, a temporary injunction issued by a federal judge in Texas blocked   the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s cancellation of the parole programs for nationals of Cuba, Haiti, Nicaragua, and Venezuela (CHNV).  The anticipated end date for parole and employment authorization for close to 1 million nationals of these countries is no longer in effect - for now. 

USCIS (U.S. Department of Homeland Security) has acknowledged that the CHNV parole processes remain in place while litigation is being pursued.  Litigation-Related Update on CHNV | USCIS. The USCIS  will not process new parole applications in the interim, however.

What should employers know?

Employers planning to terminate or reverify employees’ holding employment authorization as beneficiaries of CHNV-based applicants should note that such employment authorization documents remain valid and should –

• Continue to monitor official updates from USCIS or seek legal advice regarding the continued ability to employ CHNV parolees;
• Avoid discriminatory practices and document any abuse during the periods of legal uncertainty if any questions do arise;
• Do not terminate or reverify employment of I-9 forms based on country of origin for specific employees who might have been affected by the prior April 24, 2025 effective date.

The Business & Corporate Immigration Practice at Tarter Krinsky & Drogin is following updates to the CHNV parole program. Please reach out to a member of our team with any questions or to discuss how changes can impact your business.