Refugees International Welcomes Modernization of Haitian and Cuban Family Reunification Parole Processes

Statement from Director for the Americas and Europe Yael Schacher:

“Last week, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) announced a modernization of the Haitian and Cuban family reunification parole processes (HFRP and CFRP) in ways that Refugees International has recommended. The processes allow certain Haitian and Cuban nationals to be paroled into the United States if their relatives have approved visa petitions on their behalf. Announced reforms to the programs—including the online platform, expansion of eligibility, and elimination of fees—will make them more similar to each other and more accessible. 

In the spirit of equity, Refugees International recommends implementing the Haitian program in a way that ensures as many Haitians as possible, including those who may have entered through other pathways and processes, have the ability to remain in the United States and to adjust to permanent status available through the HFRP. It also urges the administration to be transparent about how it is issuing invitations, who it is issuing them to, and which and how many beneficiaries enter through the programs.” 

For more information on the history of this program and ideas for reform, read Schacher’s report, “Supplementary Protection Pathways to the United States: Lessons from the Past for Today’s Humanitarian Parole Policies.”

To schedule an interview, contact Refugees International VP for Strategic Outreach Sarah Sheffer at ssheffer@refugeesinternational.org.