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WR Immigration News Digest

Feb 6, 2025 | Immigration Updates

DHS Pauses Humanitarian Parole Programs

On January 23, 2025, USCIS paused various humanitarian parole programs for review following an order from DHS leadership. The suspension affects programs for Ukrainians, Cubans, Haitians, Nicaraguans and Venezuelans. The DHS directive halts new and renewal applications under the Uniting for Ukraine (U4U) program, though it is not officially terminated. Practitioners advise Ukrainians in the U.S. to stay informed and avoid international travel due to stricter reentry policies. Additionally, DHS Secretary Kristi Noem canceled the latest Venezuelan TPS extension, ending it by April 1 or September 10, 2025, depending on arrival dates, affecting over 300,000 Venezuelans.

Impact: The suspension of humanitarian parole programs and the cancellation of Venezuelan TPS extensions have significant implications if impacted employees are unable to obtain alternative status and work authorization.  Employers should connect with outside counsel for guidance.

CBP Clarifies Advance Parole Guidance; Practitioners Urge Caution

On January 22, 2025, CBP clarified that the executive order terminating categorical parole programs does not affect individuals with valid Form I-512 (advance parole) or those processed for Significant Public Benefit Parole. However, immigration practitioners urge caution for travelers. Employees should maintain their underlying visa status, prioritize H or L visas for reentry and defer unnecessary travel until CBP guidance is fully implemented. Those traveling with parole documents should prepare for longer inspections and carry supporting documentation, such as I-485 receipt notices, to confirm pending applications.

Impact: HR professionals must navigate increased travel risks and work authorization concerns as CBP tightens reentry rules. Employees relying on advance parole may face delays or denials, requiring HR to ensure compliance, advise on safe travel options and support those needing valid work visas to prevent disruptions to relocations and business operations.

President Trump Orders Guantanamo Bay Expansion to ‘Full Capacity’

On January 29, 2025, President Trump ordered the expansion of the Migrant Operations Center at Guantanamo Bay to full capacity to detain high-priority criminal migrants. Citing border security and cartel dismantling, he stated that some detainees would be held indefinitely rather than deported.

Impact: HR and mobility professionals should be prepared for potential mobility disruptions, including delays and employee safety, and prioritize clear communication and legal compliance.

H-1B Cap Registration Period and Process Changes Announced for FY 2026

USCIS has announced that the registration period for the FY 2026 H-1B cap will open on 3/7/25 and close on 3/24/25. During this period, petitioners and representatives must use a USCIS online account to electronically register each beneficiary and pay the $215 H-1B registration fee. The announcement also covers changes to organizational accounts for FY 2026.

Impact: Internal Immigration Teams should alert internal stakeholders and workers to be sponsored of registration timeframe and deadlines, and note the process improvements and increase on credit payment cap from $24,999 to $99,999 per day.

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