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The Trump Administration announced the suspension of the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), known as 'Food Stamps', for immigrants who entered the United States under the humanitarian 'parole' program.
The measure will primarily affect approximately 321,000 citizens of Cuba and Haiti who, until now, had the right to temporary resettlement services, including food assistance.
The Department of Agriculture issued a communication on April 3rd informing that, following the revocation of the humanitarian 'parole' for immigrants from Cuba, Haiti, Nicaragua, and Venezuela, beneficiaries of these nationalities who were receiving 'Food Stamps' will have their access to this program suspended starting April 24th, the day their immigration status will expire.
The notification was sent to all state agencies responsible for administering SNAP, ordering that once the 'parole' expires, access to it be withdrawn from the affected individuals. Only those who can demonstrate that they have another eligible immigration status to receive assistance will be allowed to remain enrolled in the program.
The document does not mention those who entered through the border using the CBP One app or those who possess an I-220A (a document granting parole), who are in the process of seeking asylum or status review.
Around 532,000 nationals from the four countries arrived in the United States through humanitarian parole. However, only Cubans and Haitians are entitled to additional services, such as SNAP.
In total, 110,240 Cubans and 211,040 Haitians entered with parole, but it is not known exactly how many of them applied for the benefit.
It is known that many have already regularized their status under the Cuban Adjustment Act and the TPS for Haitians, which came into effect in 2024 and will be extended until August 3 of this year.
Food Stamps can last for a year and only expire if the person receives a final deportation order.
Its suspension has raised concerns among the affected communities, as many rely on these benefits for their daily sustenance.
Organizations defending the rights of immigrants criticize the measure, arguing that it creates a climate of fear and uncertainty, and could increase food insecurity among the most vulnerable populations.
The decision is part of a series of measures implemented by the Trump Administration aimed at strengthening stricter immigration policies.
When in March the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) announced the termination of humanitarian parole programs for Cubans, Haitians, Nicaraguans, and Venezuelans (known as CHNV programs), it stated that beneficiaries must voluntarily leave the country before April 24. Failure to do so may result in expedited deportation proceedings.
Those who have applied for a status adjustment, such as asylum, Temporary Protected Status (TPS), or visas for crime victims, as well as individuals who have submitted a family claim, fiancé petition, or immigrant employee application, are excluded.
In addition, the DHS revoked the work authorizations of beneficiaries of humanitarian 'parole,' impacting their ability to work legally in the country.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Suspension of Food Stamps and the Immigration Status of Beneficiaries of Humanitarian Parole
Why has the Trump Administration decided to suspend Food Stamps for beneficiaries of humanitarian parole?
The suspension of Food Stamps is part of a series of measures implemented by the Trump Administration aimed at restricting benefits and strengthening stricter immigration policies. This decision will primarily affect immigrants from Cuba, Haiti, Nicaragua, and Venezuela who entered under the humanitarian parole program and were receiving financial assistance as refugees.
What consequences do beneficiaries of humanitarian parole face following the revocation of their status?
Beneficiaries of humanitarian parole must leave the country before April 24, 2025, or they will face expedited deportation proceedings and the accumulation of unlawful presence in the United States. Additionally, their work authorization has been revoked, impacting their ability to work legally in the country.
What options do immigrants affected by the revocation of humanitarian parole have to regularize their status in the United States?
Affected immigrants should seek legal counsel to explore options such as applying for asylum or other legal forms of regularization before the deadline. Cubans may benefit from the Cuban Adjustment Act if they meet the length of stay requirements, while Venezuelans and Haitians might be eligible for Temporary Protected Status (TPS).
How does the revocation of humanitarian parole affect the Cuban community in the United States?
The Cuban community is among the most affected by the revocation of humanitarian parole, as many have not yet completed the process to obtain permanent residency under the Cuban Adjustment Act. This measure could lead to mass deportations and impacts their stability while they await a legal resolution.
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