USCIS and DHS Announce NEW 2-Year Parole Program for Nicaraguans

The United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) and the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) announced a new 2-year parole program for certain Nicaraguans. This program is designed to provide temporary relief to individuals who are facing extraordinary and compelling circumstances in Nicaragua.

Who is Eligible for the 2-Year Parole Program?

The new 2-year parole program is available to certain Nicaraguans who are facing extraordinary and compelling circumstances. To be eligible, individuals must:

Be outside the United States;

Be a national of Nicaragua; or be an immediate family member (spouse, common-law partner, and/or unmarried child under the age of 21) who is traveling with a Nicaraguan;

Have a U.S.-based supporter who filed a Form I-134A on their behalf that USCIS has vetted and confirmed;

Possess an unexpired passport valid for international travel;

Provide for their own commercial travel to an air U.S. POE and final U.S. destination;

Undergo and pass required national security and public safety vetting;

Comply with all additional requirements, including vaccination requirements and other public health guidelines; and

Demonstrate that a grant of parole is warranted based on significant public benefit or urgent humanitarian reasons and that a favorable exercise of discretion is otherwise merited.

The new 2-year parole program for Nicaraguans is a welcome development for individuals who are facing extraordinary and compelling circumstances in Nicaragua. While it does not provide a pathway to permanent residency or citizenship, it does provide temporary relief and access to essential services for those in need. If you believe you are eligible for the program, it is recommended that you seek the guidance of an immigration attorney who can assist you in preparing your application and navigating the parole process.

I would love your feedback on this topic or to discuss it further. Please call my cell at 305-916-1298 – Matt Person.