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The administration of President Donald Trump filed an emergency appeal with the United States Supreme Court on Thursday to overturn a court ruling that prevents the early cancellation of the humanitarian parole program, which grants temporary legal status to over 500,000 migrants from Cuba, Haiti, Nicaragua, and Venezuela.
The program, established during President Joe Biden's administration, allowed individuals from these countries to enter the U.S. by air with financial backing and to reside legally for two years with work authorization; however, it was one of the first programs reversed by Trump upon taking office.
According to the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), more than 530,000 migrants have benefited from this policy since the end of 2022.
The Trump administration, which returned to power in January 2025, argues that the decision of the Boston district court — which blocked the mass termination of the program — interferes with its executive authority over immigration and foreign policy.
The ruling, issued by Judge Indira Talwani, states that the government cannot revoke humanitarian parole on a general basis without an individual review of each case, as required by law.
"The district court has overturned one of the most significant decisions of this administration regarding immigration policy," stated Attorney General John Sauer in the court presentation.
The administration argues that maintaining the current program undermines federal efforts to deter illegal border crossings and complicates the expedited processing of deportations.
The Supreme Court granted the plaintiffs—a group of migrants who are beneficiaries of the program and their sponsors—until May 15 to respond to the government’s appeal.
Organizations defending the rights of migrants described the intention to eliminate parole as "unjustified" and "devastating," warning that it would leave hundreds of thousands of workers at risk of losing their legal status and exposed to deportation.
Among those affected are thousands of Cubans who have not completed one year and one day in the country, a crucial requirement to benefit from the Cuban Adjustment Act and obtain permanent residency.
This request to the Supreme Court adds to a series of actions taken by the Trump administration aimed at reversing immigration policies implemented under Biden's leadership, who used humanitarian parole as a key tool to provide legal entry pathways into the country and alleviate pressure at the southern border.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Revocation of Humanitarian Parole by Trump
What is humanitarian parole and how many migrants have benefited from it?
The humanitarian parole is a program that allows temporary entry to the U.S. for humanitarian reasons or significant public benefit. Since its implementation by the Biden administration, more than 530,000 migrants from Cuba, Haiti, Nicaragua, and Venezuela have benefited from this program, which grants them temporary legal status and work permission for two years.
Why does the Trump administration want to cancel humanitarian parole?
The Trump administration argues that humanitarian parole has not succeeded in reducing irregular migration or improving border security. Trump claims that the program was an abuse of authority and creates logistical pressures, especially at airports and local communities. Furthermore, he believes that canceling it is necessary to prioritize the safety of Americans.
What is the current situation of humanitarian parole following the judicial intervention?
Currently, a federal judge has blocked the cancellation of humanitarian parole by the Trump administration, requiring an individual review of each case before the permission can be revoked. This ruling temporarily halts plans for mass deportation and keeps protections for beneficiaries active until the ongoing legal dispute is resolved.
What consequences does a migrant face if their humanitarian parole is canceled?
If humanitarian parole is canceled, migrants will lose their legal status and right to work in the U.S. Without any legal basis to remain, they will need to leave the country or face deportation proceedings. This could impact hundreds of thousands of people who have established their lives in the United States under this program.
What legal actions are being taken against the cancellation of humanitarian parole?
Human rights organizations and migrant groups have filed lawsuits to halt the cancellation of humanitarian parole. A judge has issued a temporary order blocking the measure, and the case could reach the Supreme Court. These actions aim to protect the rights of migrants and ensure that any changes to their legal status are made in accordance with the law.
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