The Cuban Family Reunification Parole Program

Created in 2007, the Cuban Family Reunification Parole (CFRP) program allows certain eligible U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents to apply for parole for their family members in Cuba. If granted parole, these family members may come to the United States without waiting for their immigrant visas to become available. Once in the United States, CFRP program beneficiaries may apply for work authorization while they wait to apply for lawful permanent resident status.

Eligibility Criteria

• A Cuban national must have had a Form I-130 family-based green card petition filed by a qualified United States Citizen or lawful permanent resident approved by USCIS.
• The immigrant visa (green card) is not yet available for the Cuban family member, and;
• The Cuban family member received an invitation from the Department of State’s National Visa Center (NVC) to participate in the CFRP program.

Application

Upon receipt of the invitation letter from the NVC, the Cuban family member will need to file Form I-131, Application for Travel Document. The invitation letter will specify where and how to file the application, so the application cannot be submitted without the invitation letter.

Grant of Parole

Once the NVC reviews the application and if it appears approvable, the case will be forwarded to the U.S. Embassy in Havana, Cuba where USCIS staff will interview the beneficiary to determine whether to grant parole. Granting of Parole is dependent on the following factors:

• The Cuban family member meets all CFRP eligibility requirements.
• The Cuban family member meets all eligibility requirements for an immigrant visa/green card except for the immigrant visa/green card number being available.
• The Cuban family member passes all background checks.
• The Cuban family member passes a medical examination.
• The Cuban family member is admissible to the United States, and;
• The Cuban Family member warrants a favorable exercise of discretion.

One the travel document is granted; the Cuban family member can travel to the United States and wait for the immigrant visa number to become available. The Cuban national can also apply for work authorization.

Disclaimer: Immigration laws and policies can change, affecting the availability and requirements of the immigration processes mentioned above. Always seek legal advice or consult official U.S. government sources to understand the latest regulations and options available to individuals.