New US Travel Authorization Process for Cubans, Haitians, Nicaraguans, and Venezuelans: What You Need to Know

The US government has recently announced updated travel authorization processes for nationals of Cuba, Haiti, Nicaragua, and Venezuela. This article provides an overview of the new processes, eligibility criteria, and important information for individuals seeking to travel to the United States.

Updated Review Process

Starting from May 17, 2023, the review process for Forms I-134A has been updated. The new process randomly selects approximately half of the monthly total for review, irrespective of the filing date. The remaining half will be reviewed based on the first-in, first-out method, prioritizing the oldest applications. This new approach aims to maintain a fair and equitable opportunity for all beneficiaries of the Form I-134A to advance through the process and obtain travel authorization. You can find more information on the updated review process here.

Requirements for US-based Supporters

Individuals participating in the Processes for Cubans, Haitians, Nicaraguans, and Venezuelans must have a US-based supporter who agrees to provide them with financial support during their stay in the United States. Examples of individuals who can act as supporters include:

• US citizens and nationals
• Lawful permanent residents, lawful temporary residents, and conditional permanent residents
• Nonimmigrants in lawful status
• Asylees, refugees, and parolees
• Individuals granted Temporary Protected Status (TPS)
• Beneficiaries of deferred action or Deferred Enforced Departure (DED)

Supporters must file a Form I-134A, Online Request to be a Supporter and Declaration of Financial Support, for each beneficiary they seek to support.

Eligibility Criteria for Beneficiaries

To be considered for parole under these processes, beneficiaries must meet the following criteria:

1. Be outside the United States
2. Be a national of Cuba, Haiti, Nicaragua, or Venezuela, or be an immediate family member of the eligible national
3. Have a US-based supporter who has submitted a Form I-134A on their behalf
4. Possess a valid and unexpired passport
5. Provide their own commercial travel to a US Port of Entry (POE) and final destination in the United States
6. Undergo and pass required national security and public safety vetting
7. Comply with all additional requirements, including vaccination requirements and other public health guidelines
8. Demonstrate that parole is warranted based on significant public benefit or urgent humanitarian reasons and that a favorable exercise of discretion is merited

Ineligible individuals include those who hold dual nationality or permanent residence in another country, fail national security and public safety vetting, recently crossed the border into the United States irregularly, or are under 18 and not accompanied by a parent or legal guardian.

Conclusion

The new Processes for Cubans, Haitians, Nicaraguans, and Venezuelans offer a more streamlined and equitable approach for individuals seeking to travel to the United States for urgent humanitarian reasons or significant public benefit. By providing comprehensive information on the updated processes, eligibility criteria, and requirements for beneficiaries and supporters, we hope to assist those affected by these changes. For more information and frequently asked questions, visit the USCIS website.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)