Department of Homeland Security Launches Venezuelan Parole Program
/On October 12, 2022, Department of Homeland Security (DHS) announced a new parole program for Venezuelan that will provide a lawful and streamlined way for nationals of Venezuela who are outside the United States and lacking U.S. entry documents to come to the United States. Through a fully online process, individuals can be considered, on a case-by-case basis, for advance authorization to travel to the United States and seek a temporary period of parole for up to two years.
To be eligible, Venezuelans must:
have a supporter in the United States who will provide financial and other support;
pass rigorous biometric and biographic national security and public safety screening and vetting; and
complete vaccinations and other public health requirements.
Venezuelans are ineligible if they:
have been ordered removed from the United States in the previous five years;
have crossed without authorization between ports of entry after the date of announcement;
have irregularly entered Mexico or Panama after the date of announcement, or are a permanent resident or dual national of any country other than Venezuela, or currently hold refugee status in any country; or
have not completed vaccinations and other public health requirements.
Venezuelans should not travel to Mexico to pursue entry into the United States. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) strongly encourages Venezuelans seeking entry to the United States who do not have a visa or who are not eligible for one to seek entry through this new program. Access to this process for Venezuelans is free. Neither the supporter nor the beneficiary is required to pay the U.S. government a fee for the application. USCIS cautions applicants to be aware of any potential scams by anyone who asks for money in the application process. USCIS has created a webpage for the process for Venezuelans.
