Alternative legal options for humanitarian parolees
Last updated Feb. 21, 2025
We are tracking media reports that on Feb. 14, the Department of Homeland Security issued an internal memo suspending decision-making on all immigration applications filed by individuals who arrived in the United States through several sponsorship programs, including Uniting for Ukraine (U4U) and the Processes for Cubans, Haitians, Nicaraguans, and Venezuelans (CHNV). The directive indicates that U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services will not approve any alternative forms of legal status many sponsored individuals are seeking while this pause is in place. This includes applications filed for asylum, Temporary Protected Status (TPS), Employment Authorization Documents (EADs), advance parole travel, adjustment of status to permanent residence, naturalization, and all other applications filed to USCIS.
The memo has not been made public, and many questions remain, including if it will be challenged in court. We continue to strongly recommend that sponsored newcomers apply for alternative legal status, including asylum, if eligible, based on guidance from legal experts. Sponsors can help by connecting newcomers with legal services. We will continue to monitor policy changes and share updated recommendations as they impact sponsorship programs.
About the guide
Are you sponsoring someone through a humanitarian parole program, or supporting individuals in your community who are on humanitarian parole? Our comprehensive Guide to Alternative Legal Status Options provides essential information on next steps for parolees seeking more stable and long-term pathways to remain in the United States.
This resource is designed for:
- Sponsors navigating the complex process of helping individuals on humanitarian parole.
- Employers looking to support employees who are on humanitarian parole by understanding alternative legal pathways.
- Faith leaders, community groups, and neighbors who want to ensure that parolees have access to the resources they need to thrive and build secure futures.
Whether you are helping someone pursue asylum, apply for Temporary Protected Status (TPS), or explore family or employment-based visa options, this guide will equip you with the foundational knowledge to get started.
Pair the guide with our on-demand webinar
We also recommend watching our on-demand webinar featuring immigration attorney Dree K. Collopy. In this session, you'll gain insights into:
- Next steps for individuals on humanitarian parole.
- How sponsors and communities can provide meaningful support.
- Key legal considerations to keep in mind as parolees explore alternative status options.
