Biden Administration Declines to Extend Legal Status for Migrants from Four Nations

 

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 info@berdklauss.com or call 212-461-7152 to arrange a meeting with us.

Source URL: https://berdklauss.com/biden-administration-declines-to-extend-legal-status-for-migrants-from-four-nations/

Comments

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

Navigating the New USCIS Fee Structure: What You Need to Know

Image
On January 30, 2024, the US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) announced substantial increases in fees for various immigration applications and benefit requests. This marks the first major revision since 2016, prompted by the need to address the agency's financial and operational challenges. The new fees aim to facilitate more efficient processing of applications. Starting April 1, 2024, the updated fee schedule will take effect. To avoid the increased charges, applicants should ensure the USCIS receives their applications before this date. The need to refresh the USCIS fee structure had been imminent, given the agency’s financial and operational challenges. With the new fees, the agency can address its pain points and ensure timely processing for new applications. Things you need to know about the new fee structure Below are some of the significant fee changes for certain forms and applications: ·        Petition for Alien Relative : Fe...
Read more

A Closer Look at the Biden Administration's Pitch for Higher USCIS Fees

The US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) recently unveiled a new proposal that could dramatically alter the current fee structure for various immigration-related forms and services. New York citizenship lawyers are closely examining how these changes may impact applicants. Why does the USCIS want to increase fees? The proposed rule, known as the “ US Citizenship and Immigration Services Fee Schedule and Changes to Certain Other Immigration Benefit Request Requirements ,” will lead to an increase in most immigration filing fees. Though the proposal includes some minor fee reductions, the new fee structure will substantially increase the costs for certain applications. According to USCIS, the increase is intended to help the agency recover operating costs and handle the rising expenses of the incoming asylum population. Those looking to understand these changes in detail can consult a New York citizenship lawyer for guidance. Notable changes beyond fees Aside from hi...
Read more

DHS Announces Registration Process for Temporary Protected Status for Ukraine and Sudan

  If you come from Ukraine or Sudan and are currently in the US, it’s essential to keep updated on the latest announcements from the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). On April 18, 2022, DHS shared information on how to register for a Temporary Protected Status (TPS). Previously, Alejandro N. Mayorkas, Secretary of Homeland Security, announced the 18-month designation for Sudan and Ukraine.   The registration process started on April 19, 2022. If you’re interested in requesting TPS under Sudan or Ukraine, you must apply.   Know if you’re eligible under the Ukraine designation   To be eligible for a TPS, you must demonstrate your continuous residence in the US since April 11, 2022, with a continuous physical presence since the designation date in the Federal Register notice. The USCIS has estimated that 59,600 individuals currently in the US may be eligible for a Temporary Protected Status under the designation of Ukraine.   Ukrainian national...
Read more