On December 15, 2025, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) published a notice in the Federal Register announcing the termination of the Family Reunification Parole (FRP) processes for certain countries. The termination will take effect on January 14, 2026.
The affected countries include Colombia, Cuba, Ecuador, El Salvador, Guatemala, Haiti, and Honduras, along with qualifying immediate family members.
What Were the FRP Programs?
The modernized FRP programs, announced or expanded in 2023, allowed certain qualified beneficiaries outside the United States to request advance permission to travel to the U.S. and seek a temporary period of parole. These requests were evaluated on a case-by-case basis and were intended to promote lawful family reunification.
Why Is DHS Ending These Programs?
The termination follows Executive Order 14165, issued on January 20, 2025, titled “Securing Our Borders.” Section 7 of the order directs DHS to terminate categorical parole programs that conflict with current U.S. immigration policy.
What Happens Next?
After January 14, 2026:
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DHS will no longer accept new categorical FRP parole requests for these countries.
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Parole may still be granted on an individual basis for urgent humanitarian reasons or significant public benefit.
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This change primarily affects beneficiaries outside the United States.
What Should Families Do?
Families who may be affected by this change should review their immigration options as soon as possible. Other family-based immigration pathways may still be available depending on individual circumstances.