On Jan. 5, 2023, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) announced a safe and lawful way for qualifying Cubans, Haitians, and Nicaraguans with U.S.-based supporters to travel by air to and temporarily reside in the United States. Individuals arriving under this new process may also apply for work authorization. DHS also announced elimination of the numerical cap for a similar process for Venezuelans announced earlier this year.
This process will provide a lawful and streamlined way for qualifying nationals of Cuba, Haiti, and Nicaragua who are outside the United States and lacking U.S. entry documents to come to the United States. Through a fully online process, individuals can be considered, on a case-by-case basis, for advance authorization to travel to the United States and seek a temporary period of parole for up to two years, provided that they:
Have a supporter in the United States who will provide financial and other support; Undergo and clear robust security vetting; Meet other eligibility criteria; and warrant a favorable exercise of discretion.
DHS will begin implementing these new processes for Cubans, Haitians, and Nicaraguans on Jan. 6, 2023. DHS strongly encourages Cubans, Haitians, Nicaraguans, and Venezuelans seeking entry in the U.S. who do not have and are not eligible for a visa to instead seek entry via this process, as this will be the safest and most effective way to pursue a temporary stay in the United States. Individuals complete the process electronically and should not approach the border to access this process.
Effective immediately, U.S.-based individuals may submit affidavits of support on behalf of named nationals of Cuba, Haiti, and Nicaragua and Venezuelans to come to the United States.
Contact the Law Offices of Mark A. Urbanski PLLC if you would like to apply for a Venezuelan, Cuban, Haitian, and Nicaraguan citizen, whether related to you or not, or if you believe you meet the above criteria yourself.