Trump freezes applications for Biden-era migrant programs amid fraud, national security concerns

The Trump administration has taken action to freeze applications for three Biden-era migrant parole programs, as part of its ongoing efforts to tighten immigration policies. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has implemented a pause on all pending benefit requests for migrants filing under the Uniting for Ukraine (U4U) Process, Processes for Haitians, Cubans, Nicaraguans, and Venezuelans (CHNV) Process, and Family Reunification Parole (FRP) Process.

According to a DHS spokesperson, the pause is necessary to conduct additional vetting to identify any potential fraud, public safety concerns, or national security risks. This move comes as part of the administration’s crackdown on parole programs that were deemed to be abused by the prior administration.

President Donald Trump had previously ordered an end to multiple parole programs shortly after taking office, which was swiftly enacted. The DHS has also allowed for the cancellation of parole status for those currently in the U.S. under parole processes.

The freeze on applications also applies to pending requests that were already approved under the three programs. The Uniting for Ukraine program allowed Ukrainians to enter the U.S. on humanitarian parole following the Russian invasion, while the CHNV program permitted migrants from Cuba, Haiti, Nicaragua, and Venezuela to enter under parole. The Family Reunification Parole process allowed nationals from countries like Guatemala, Ecuador, and Cuba to reunite with family members who are U.S. citizens or green card holders.

The Biden administration had expanded these parole programs as part of an effort to provide lawful pathways for migrants and reduce illegal crossings. However, critics, particularly Republicans, accused the administration of abusing parole power and allowing in migrants who did not meet the legal criteria for entry.

A recent DHS memo highlighted the history of parole abuse by the Executive Branch over the years, emphasizing the need for stricter adherence to statutory requirements. The Trump administration’s actions to overhaul parole programs are part of a broader effort to increase border security and streamline immigration processes.

These measures include suspending refugee resettlement, ending the use of certain immigration apps, launching mass deportation operations, and increasing the use of expedited removals for illegal immigrants. The administration has also ordered a review of parole programs to ensure compliance with legal standards and national security priorities.