Immigrants from Venezuela, Cuba, Haiti, and Nicaragua are facing heightened uncertainty after the U.S. Supreme Court upheld the termination of temporary protected status for nationals of these countries. The May 30, 2025 ruling marked the final chapter in a legal battle that began when the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) first announced the policy change in March 2025.

The decision affects thousands of families and individuals who had been relying on the CHNV (Cuba, Haiti, Nicaragua, Venezuela) parole process for legal status in the United States. U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has begun notifying affected individuals via email and online accounts that their protections terminated effective May 30.

Key Implications of the Ruling

  • No new applications: The program is closed to new applicants, with all pending applications being terminated.
  • Status terminated: All existing CHNV parole protections ended May 30, 2025.
  • Work authorization void: Employment authorization documents (EADs) and travel permits issued through CHNV are no longer valid.
  • Alternate status required: Individuals must secure other legal immigration status or face potential removal proceedings.

Legal Challenges Continue

While the Supreme Court's decision allows the policy to take effect, lower courts continue to hear challenges to the termination. Legal experts anticipate the litigation could continue for months or years, leaving affected immigrants in limbo.

In a partial reversal on May 28, 2025, a federal court ordered the government to resume processing certain humanitarian applications, including work permits, asylum claims, Temporary Protected Status (TPS) applications, and adjustment of status petitions. This conflicting legal landscape creates additional uncertainty for impacted families.

Recommended Actions for Affected Individuals

Immigration advocates urge CHNV parole recipients to take immediate steps to secure alternative legal status:

  1. Seek legal counsel: Nonprofit organizations and pro bono attorneys can help evaluate options for maintaining legal status.
  2. Explore asylum eligibility: Those fearing persecution may qualify for asylum protection.
  3. Apply for TPS: Haitian nationals in particular should review eligibility for Temporary Protected Status.
  4. Consider Cuban Adjustment Act: Cuban nationals present in the U.S. for one year may qualify for permanent residency.
  5. Know your rights: Prepare for potential ICE encounters by understanding constitutional protections.

Looking Ahead

As court battles continue, affected immigrants face difficult choices. Those without alternative status options risk losing work authorization and becoming priorities for deportation. Legal service providers report surging demand as families scramble to understand their options before potential enforcement actions begin.

Immigration attorneys caution that leaving the U.S. could jeopardize pending asylum cases or other relief applications. They recommend consulting with qualified legal professionals before making any travel decisions.