The United States has announced the end of legal status for over 500,000 immigrants, giving them just a few weeks to leave the country. This decision, made public on Friday, aligns with former President Donald Trump’s goal of executing the largest deportation effort in U.S. history. The move also reflects the administration’s stance on reducing immigration, particularly from Latin American countries.
Who Is Affected?
The decision impacts approximately 532,000 individuals from Cuba, Haiti, Nicaragua, and Venezuela. These immigrants initially entered the U.S. under a program initiated by President Joe Biden in October 2022, which was later expanded in January 2023.
The affected individuals will lose their legal protections 30 days after the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) publishes the order in the Federal Register, which is scheduled for Tuesday. This means they must leave the country by April 24, unless they can secure another immigration status.
The CHNV Program: What Went Wrong?
The Cubans, Haitians, Nicaraguans, and Venezuelans (CHNV) Program, introduced in January 2023, allowed up to 30,000 migrants per month from these four countries to enter the U.S. for a two-year period. These countries are known for serious human rights issues, and the program was initially designed to provide temporary relief for migrants.
President Joe Biden had described the initiative as a "safe and humane" way to manage migration and reduce strain on the U.S.-Mexico border. However, on Friday, the DHS emphasized that the program was always meant to be temporary, stating:
“Parole is inherently temporary, and parole alone does not provide a pathway to permanent immigration status, nor does it grant admission to the United States.”
Immediate Legal Guidance Advised
The organization Welcome.US, which assists refugees, has urged affected individuals to seek immediate advice from immigration attorneys. Given the tight timeline, it is crucial for those impacted to explore their legal options as soon as possible.
Trump's Additional Actions
In a separate development, Donald Trump recently invoked wartime powers to transport over 200 alleged Venezuelan gang members to El Salvador. The country has agreed to incarcerate migrants and even U.S. citizens at discounted rates.
Final Thoughts
The decision to end the CHNV program and revoke legal status for hundreds of thousands of immigrants marks a significant shift in U.S. immigration policy. It reflects a broader strategy to curb migration, particularly from Latin America. As the deadline approaches, affected individuals are urged to act quickly to secure legal advice and consider their options.
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