The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) announced on December 12, 2025, the termination of all categorical Family Reunification Parole (FRP) programs, effective December 15, 2025. This policy change affects nationals of Colombia, Cuba, Ecuador, El Salvador, Guatemala, Haiti, and Honduras who were waiting to reunite with family members in the United States. The FRP programs allowed certain individuals with approved family-based immigrant visa petitions to be paroled into the U.S. rather than waiting in their home countries for their visa to become available. DHS cited concerns about 'abuse of the humanitarian parole process' as the reason for the termination. Existing parolees' status will expire on January 14, 2026, unless they have a pending adjustment of status application (Form I-485) filed by December 15, 2025. The termination of these programs will have a significant impact on thousands of families, prolonging family separation and creating uncertainty for those who were in the process of applying. This is a critical piece of immigration news for 2025, and we will continue to monitor these visa updates and policy changes closely.
DHS Terminates Family Reunification Parole Programs for Seven Countries
DHS has terminated all Family Reunification Parole programs for seven Latin American and Caribbean countries, ending a key pathway for families to reunite in the U.S.
What This Means for You:
- Key Point 1: The pathway for early reunification for families from the seven affected countries has been eliminated. Parole will now only be granted on a case-by-case basis.
- Who Should Be Concerned: Individuals from Colombia, Cuba, Ecuador, El Salvador, Guatemala, Haiti, and Honduras with approved family-based petitions who were hoping to use the FRP program.
- Timeline for Action: The termination is effective December 15, 2025. Current parolees must have filed for adjustment of status by this date to potentially remain in the U.S. beyond January 14, 2026.
- Next Steps: If you or a family member are affected by this termination, it is imperative to speak with an immigration attorney immediately to explore alternative options for reunification and to understand the implications for your specific case.
Source: Federalregister.gov