In a significant legal development, a federal judge in Massachusetts has temporarily blocked the Trump administration's attempt to end the Biden Administration's humanitarian parole program known as CHNV, which grants temporary entry to nationals from Cuba, Haiti, Nicaragua, and Venezuela. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) had recently communicated that individuals from these four countries were expected to self-deport by April 25, 2025, or risk enforcement action. However, this court ruling has changed the immediate landscape.

The CHNV program was launched by the Biden administration to provide a lawful pathway for up to 30,000 individuals per month from the designated countries to enter the U.S. on humanitarian parole. It allows eligible individuals who pass background checks and have a financial sponsor in the U.S. to live and work legally for up to two years. This effort aimed to reduce unlawful border crossings and provide a safer, more orderly process for migrants escaping political unrest, poverty, and violence.

The Trump administration's move to terminate the CHNV parole program reignited fear and uncertainty within immigrant communities. In response, lawsuits were filed challenging the legality of rescinding the program without due process or a comprehensive review of its humanitarian impact. The Massachusetts federal judge's ruling has now placed a temporary halt on the enforcement of the termination, allowing the program to remain in place—for now.

This is a critical moment for nationals from Cuba, Haiti, Nicaragua, and Venezuela who are currently in the U.S. under the CHNV program or are seeking to apply. With the future of the program uncertain and its legality still under review by the courts, immigration attorneys are urging affected individuals to seek immediate legal advice. Immigration law is complex, and decisions made now—such as voluntarily departing, overstaying parole, or applying for another form of relief—can have long-term consequences.

Legal experts emphasize that self-deporting without understanding your rights or legal options could lead to devastating outcomes, especially if the courts ultimately uphold the legality of the CHNV program. Additionally, individuals who may qualify for asylum, Temporary Protected Status (TPS), or other forms of humanitarian relief may risk losing those opportunities if they act prematurely.

This court decision is a temporary relief, not a permanent resolution. As the case makes its way through the federal court system, DHS policies may continue to shift, and new guidance may be issued. Therefore, staying informed and working closely with a qualified immigration attorney is essential.

At this time, the most important step for individuals affected by the CHNV program is to get personalized legal assistance to understand their options and prepare for any possible changes. The stakes are high, and proactive legal guidance can make all the difference.