The new program for Haitian immigrants is the modernized Haitian Family Reunification Parole (HFRP) Program, which facilitates the reunification of eligible Haitian family members with their petitioners in the United States.
Understanding the Haitian Family Reunification Parole (HFRP) Program
The Haitian Family Reunification Parole (HFRP) Program allows certain eligible Haitian beneficiaries of approved family-based immigrant visa petitions to come to the United States and receive parole before their immigrant visas are available. This program is designed to expedite family reunification and provide a safe, orderly pathway for individuals to join their families.
Modernized Process and Key Updates
The HFRP Program underwent a significant modernization on August 11, 2023. This update primarily shifted the process to be generally completed online, making it more efficient and accessible for eligible families.
Key aspects of the modernized process include:
- Online Completion: The application and subsequent processes are now largely handled through online platforms.
- Invitation-Based System: Eligibility for the modernized process is by invitation only. U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) or the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) sends invitations to petitioners whose Form I-130, Petition for Alien Relative, has been approved and whose beneficiaries meet the program's criteria.
- Form I-134A Submission: Upon receiving an invitation, petitioners are able to submit Form I-134A, Online Request to be a Supporter and Declaration of Financial Support, on behalf of each eligible beneficiary. This form demonstrates the financial support the beneficiary will receive in the U.S.
Eligibility and Application Flow
The HFRP Program targets specific beneficiaries of approved family petitions. Here's a general overview of how the process works for eligible individuals:
- Approved Family Petition (Form I-130): The process begins with a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident filing and receiving approval for Form I-130 on behalf of their Haitian family member.
- Invitation from DHS/USCIS: DHS or USCIS reviews approved Form I-130 petitions and identifies those that may be eligible for the HFRP Program. Eligible petitioners receive an official invitation to participate.
- Submission of Form I-134A: Once invited, the U.S.-based petitioner submits Form I-134A online for each Haitian family member they wish to bring to the United States under the program. This form requires the petitioner to demonstrate sufficient financial resources to support the beneficiary.
- Review and Approval: DHS reviews the submitted Form I-134A and other necessary information. If approved, the Haitian beneficiary may be authorized to travel to the United States.
- Parole into the U.S.: Upon arrival and inspection at a U.S. port of entry, eligible Haitian individuals may be granted parole for a specific period, allowing them to temporarily live and work in the United States while they await the availability of their immigrant visa.
For more detailed information on the program, you can refer to the official USCIS resources on The Haitian Family Reunification Parole (HFRP) Program.
