DHS Announces Special Process for Venezuelans

On October 12, 2022, The Department of Homeland Security announced a new alternative for qualifying Venezuelans with supporters to travel by air to the United States, temporarily reside in the United States, and apply for work authorization, given the increasing number of Venezuelans encountered near the Mexico-U.S. border.

To be eligible, Venezuelans must:

1. Have a supporter in the United States who will provide financial and other support;

2. Pass rigorous biometric and biographic national security and public safety screening and vetting; and

3. Complete vaccinations and other public health requirements.

Venezuelans are ineligible if they have:

1. Been ordered removed from the United States in the previous five years;

2. Crossed without authorization between ports of entry after the date of this announcement;

3. Irregularly entered Mexico or Panama after the date of this announcement, or are a permanent resident or dual national of any country other than Venezuela, or currently hold refugee status in any country; or

4. Not completed vaccinations and other public health requirements.

It is important to keep in mind that effective immediately, Venezuelans who enter the United States between ports of entry, without authorization, will be returned to Mexico.