DHS Modernizes Cuban and Haitian Family Reunification Parole Processes

On August 10, 2023, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) published two Federal Register notices that will update and modernize the Cuban and Haitian family reunification parole (FRP) processes. Petitioners will now be able to complete most of the FRP process on a secure online platform, eliminating the burden of travel, time, and paperwork and increasing access to participation. Despite these changes, the process is still only available by invitation.

As of August 11, 2023, most steps of the updated processes will be completed online, apart from the panel physician exam overseas and the in-person parole determination at arrival by air at a U.S. Port of Entry. Eligible beneficiaries must be outside the United States, but are no longer required to be physically present in Cuba or Haiti.

The process for both Cuba and Haiti require the National Visa Center to issue an invitation to the U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident petitioner who has filed a I-130 Immigrant Visa Petition for a Coban or Haitian family member that has been approved.  Upon receiving this invitation from the NVC, the I-130 petitioner can file Form I-134A, Online Request to be a Supporter and Declaration of Financial Support, on behalf of the Cuban or Haitian beneficiary and any derivative spouse and children.

USCIS will send a letter to CFRP petitioners who have a pending Form I-131, Application for Travel Document, filed for a principal beneficiary who is waiting for an interview in Havana. Additionally, DHS is opening the process to all Haitian approved principal beneficiaries, regardless of when USCIS approved the Form I-130.  

The Federal Register notices for Cuba and Haiti provide more detailed information on the application process and criteria.