The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has announced that it is ending all Family Reunification Parole (FRP) programs for certain countries. This change affects nationals of Colombia, Cuba, Ecuador, El Salvador, Guatemala, Haiti, and Honduras, as well as their qualifying immediate family members who entered the United States through these programs.
According to DHS, the decision is part of a broader effort to return the humanitarian parole process to its original purpose. Humanitarian parole was designed to be granted on a limited, case by case basis, not as a large scale program. DHS stated that the FRP programs raised concerns related to vetting, fraud prevention, and national security, which ultimately led to the decision to terminate them.
Why DHS Is Ending the FRP Programs
DHS has explained that while family reunification is an important goal, it must be balanced against public safety and immigration system integrity. The agency determined that the FRP programs contained gaps in screening and oversight that could be exploited. As a result, DHS is ending these programs and returning humanitarian parole to individualized review, as originally intended under U.S. immigration law.
What Happens to Individuals Currently in the United States Under FRP
DHS has issued guidance through a Federal Register notice explaining how the termination will be implemented.
If an individual was paroled into the United States through an FRP program and their parole has not expired by January 14, 2026, their parole will end on that date unless they meet a specific exception.
Parole may continue only if the individual has a pending Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status, that meets all of the following requirements:
- The application was postmarked or electronically filed on or before December 15, 2025
- The application remains pending on January 14, 2026
If these conditions are met, parole will remain valid until either the parole period expires or DHS issues a final decision on the Form I-485, whichever occurs first.
If the Form I-485 is denied, parole will terminate immediately, and the individual will be expected to depart the United States.
Impact on Work Authorization
When parole under an FRP program ends, any employment authorization that was issued based on that parole will also be revoked. DHS has stated that each affected individual will receive personal notice confirming the termination of parole and work authorization.
Departure Requirements and Available Assistance
Individuals who do not have another lawful basis to remain in the United States after their parole ends must depart the country by their parole termination date. DHS encourages individuals to use the CBP Home mobile app to report their intent to depart.
DHS has indicated that certain incentives may be available to qualifying individuals, including:
- Exit bonuses
- Assistance with travel and documentation
- Forgiveness of certain civil fines
Additional details are available through DHS resources related to the CBP Home program.
Why Legal Guidance Is Important Right Now
The termination of the FRP programs can have serious consequences for individuals and families, especially those who may qualify for adjustment of status or other immigration options. Filing deadlines, application eligibility, and timing are critical, and mistakes can lead to loss of lawful status or work authorization.
An experienced immigration attorney can review your situation, determine whether you qualify for an exception, and help you explore available options before key deadlines pass.
If you or a family member entered the United States through a Family Reunification Parole program, now is the time to act. Our immigration law firm can help you understand how this change affects your status and what steps you may be able to take next.
Contact our office today to schedule a confidential consultation and protect your future.