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Thousands of immigrants from Venezuela, Cuba, Haiti, and Nicaragua breathe a sigh of relief following a judicial decision that provisionally prevents the elimination of the humanitarian parole program in the United States.
Although the ruling represents a relief, experts in immigration law warn that it is a temporary measure that requires caution, legal preparation, and constant vigilance.
The order, recently issued by a federal judge, suspends the government's intention to reverse the humanitarian parole program that allowed hundreds of thousands of migrants to legally enter the country under certain humanitarian conditions.
José Guerrero, an immigration attorney in Miami, explained to Telemundo 51 that the ruling represents a "temporary relief" for the beneficiaries of the program.
"These individuals do not have to leave on April 24, as the court determined that the government's decision to end the program was arbitrary; that the plaintiffs have a possibility of winning the lawsuit, and that there would be irreversible harm to them, such as job loss, family separation, loss of status, and persecution in their countries of origin," he detailed.
Guerrero emphasized that the beneficiaries of parole should not fall into a false sense of security and suggested that they calmly assess their immigration situation, seek legal advice, and, if possible, consider other avenues to legalize their stay in the country.
"It's a temporary relief, a breath," he emphasized.
Individual assessment: the key
One of the key aspects of the judicial ruling is that it prevents the mass elimination of parole, meaning it requires the government to review each case individually. This particularity is seen by lawyers as an opportunity for migrants to strengthen their status in the country through other means.
The expert advised migrants to hire a lawyer to determine if they may qualify for another immigration benefit, such as a status adjustment.
"I want to be very clear, the court is temporarily blocking because the government cannot revoke en masse; it has to be on a case-by-case basis. The advice here is to seek a lawyer who can evaluate your case to see if you qualify for another immigration benefit," he emphasized.
Warning against frauds
The lawyer warned about the danger of falling into the hands of scammers who promise quick solutions or "guaranteed" services, which could lead them to become victims of fraud.
I want to emphasize that it is crucial for individuals to consult with properly licensed attorneys. It's not just about avoiding fraud, but ensuring that your case is handled correctly, as a mistake can lead to expedited deportation.
Recommendations for parole beneficiaries
Guerrero listed some basic recommendations for migrants under humanitarian parole:
Do not commit any crimes: any legal issues may jeopardize your stay in the country.
Do not trust unlicensed individuals: only consult qualified lawyers.
Evaluate other immigration options: explore alternatives such as asylum, TPS, status adjustment, or family petitions.
Stay informed: closely follow the evolution of the court case and any changes announced by the government.
An ongoing legal battle
The temporary suspension represents a momentary victory for advocates of migrant rights, but the legal battle continues.
The courts will decide in the coming weeks whether the government can eliminate the parole program as proposed. In the meantime, beneficiaries should take advantage of this period to prepare and strengthen their legal strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions About Humanitarian Parole and Its Impact on Migrants
What does the court ruling on humanitarian parole mean?
The court ruling represents a temporary relief for the beneficiaries of humanitarian parole, as it provisionally suspended the government's decision to eliminate the program. However, it is a temporary and not a definitive measure, so beneficiaries must remain vigilant and prepared for future legal decisions.
How can migrants benefiting from parole prepare for legal uncertainty?
Migrants should seek legal advice and explore other migration pathways to strengthen their status in the United States. Some options include adjusting status, political asylum, or family petitions. Additionally, it is crucial to stay informed about changes in the court case and avoid falling into the hands of scammers.
What risks do beneficiaries of humanitarian parole face in light of the program's revocation?
Beneficiaries could face job loss, family separation, and potential deportations if the program is permanently eliminated. Those without pending immigration proceedings may be forced to leave the country or face expedited deportations.
What alternatives do Cubans have under humanitarian parole if the program is eliminated?
Cubans in the U.S. may consider applying for residency under the Cuban Adjustment Act, which allows them to obtain permanent residency after one year and one day in the country. They may also explore political asylum or an employment visa, depending on their personal situation.
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