What You need to know about the pause on Biden’s humanitarian parole program |  EXPLAINER

Launched in 2023, the humanitarian parole program (I-134A), also known as the Biden program among Haitians, allows individuals from Haiti, Venezuela, Nicaragua, and Cuba to enter and live in the United States for up to two years. The program was designed to provide a lawful pathway for migrants from these countries, with up to 360,000 people admitted annually.

The program however has come under scrutiny and has recently been paused due to concerns over widespread fraud in the application process. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) announced the temporary halt to new approvals Friday while it investigates these issues, raising questions and concerns among potential beneficiaries and their families. 

As the program’s future remains uncertain, here’s what you need to know about the pause, its implications, and how to navigate the current situation.

Why has the program been paused?

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) temporarily paused the issuance of advanced travel authorizations for new beneficiaries due to concerns over fraud in sponsorship applications. This decision followed an internal review that identified potential fraud indicators, which were highlighted in a report by the Federation for American Immigration Reform.

What does this pause mean for those already approved to travel?

Individuals who have already received approval for advanced travel authorization should still be able to travel to the United States, as long as they are admissible and have not had their authorizations revoked. However, there have been reports of some travelers being prevented from boarding flights, which has caused confusion and concern.

What should individuals who are waiting for their applications to be processed know?

If you are waiting for your application to be processed, DHS has stated that they are working to resume application processing with additional safeguards in place. The pause is temporary, but there may be delays in approvals as DHS conducts its review.

How can people avoid scams related to the program?

Be cautious of individuals or organizations that claim they can expedite your application or find a sponsor for a fee. The Haitian Times has reported incidents where scammers charged applicants to facilitate sponsorships through the outlet, which was fraudulent. Always verify the legitimacy of any offer and ensure you are working directly with DHS or a trusted legal advisor.

What is being done to address the fraud concerns?

DHS is reviewing sponsorship applications to detect and prevent fraud and abuse. They have not found issues with the vetting of beneficiaries themselves, but are taking steps to ensure the integrity of the sponsorship process moving forward.

When will the program resume processing new applications?

DHS has not provided a specific timeline but has stated that they aim to restart application processing as quickly as possible, once additional safeguards are in place. It is recommended to stay updated through official DHS channels or trusted news sources for the latest information.