In late 2022, the US government implemented the CHNV program, which allowed eligible migrants from Cuba, Haiti, Nicaragua, and Venezuela to legally work and live in the US for two years. This program was designed to address the influx of migrants from these countries and provide a legal pathway for them to remain in the US.
However, the Biden administration announced the end of this temporary humanitarian program on October 4, 2024. This decision will impact hundreds of thousands of migrants who benefited from the program, who will now need to explore alternative pathways to legal residency or face potential deportation.
How the program changed
If you are affected by this, you can always seek help from Berd & Klauss, PLLC. Our immigration attorneys in Brooklyn will help you find alternative solutions and avoid deportation.
Who’s affected?
Since the CHNV program commenced in 2022, more than 530,000 migrants have been able to fly legally into the United States and obtain temporary legal status. The largest number of migrants came from Haiti, at around 214,000. Meanwhile, 117,000 Venezuelans, 96,000 Nicaraguans, and 111,000 Cubans also made it to the US through the previous initiative.
No more extensions for existing migrants
Although the initiative still holds, those who are currently in the US under the CHNV program will not be eligible for extensions. The program will continue to accept new applicants, but it’s unclear how long this will last.
The purpose of the CHNV program
Naree Ketudat, a spokesperson from the DHS, stated that the 2-year period was designed to give migrants time to find humanitarian relief and explore other potential immigration pathways where they may be eligible. The goal was to allow them to work legally in the US and contribute to the economy.
What happens if you can’t secure your legal status?
You may face deportation if you haven’t secured an alternative legal status by the end of the CHNV program. To navigate this complex situation and explore potential options, consider consulting with our immigration attorneys in Brooklyn to get guidance and support throughout the process.
Discover other pathways
The expiration of the CNHV program will affect migrants differently based on their nationality.
Haitian and Venezuelan migrants who arrived before specific deadlines may be eligible for Temporary Protected Status (TPS). This status offers temporary protection from deportation and allows individuals to work legally in the US.
- Haitians: Eligible if you arrived before June 2024
- Venezuelans: Eligible if you arrived before July 2023
Meanwhile, Cuban migrants may be able to pursue permanent residency through the Cuban Adjustment Act of 1966.
Understanding the Temporary Protected Status
TPS offers protection from deportation and allows individuals to work legally in the US. If you have TPS, you can also apply for travel authorization using Form I-131.
The US government may grant TPS to individuals from countries experiencing ongoing armed conflict, natural disasters, or other extraordinary conditions that prevent safe return. As of March 2024, approximately 863,880 individuals from various countries have been granted TPS.
Precautions for Nicaraguans
Nicaraguan migrants who entered the US through the CNHV program face a unique challenge. Unlike their counterparts from Venezuela, Haiti, and Cuba, Nicaraguans do not have a specific legal status that protects them from deportation. This limits their options, leaving asylum as a potential pathway to legal residency.
To qualify for asylum, you must demonstrate that you face persecution in your home country due to your race, religion, nationality, political opinion, or membership in a particular social group. If you believe you may be eligible for asylum, consult with one of our immigration attorneys in Brooklyn. They can assess your individual circumstances and guide you through the complex asylum process.
What the critics are saying
Immigration advocates have criticized the Biden administration’s decision to stop renewing the program. They believe this decision unfairly targets specific groups of immigrants, pointing out that similar programs for refugees from Ukraine and Afghanistan were extended.
Do you need help with immigration matters?
If your legal status is in danger or you’re facing deportation, don’t hesitate to contact our immigration attorneys in Brooklyn. At Berd & Klauss, PLLC, we have extensive experience in deportation defense and helping migrants seek immigration benefits in the US. Email [email protected] or call 212-461-7152 to arrange a meeting with us.