Cubans with revoked parole or those who entered the United States with a visa should act in this way to legalize their status as soon as possible.

These are highly uncertain times for the immigrant community in the United States. Regarding the risks of possible deportation, lawyers and experts are clear.

More and more Cubans in the United States are facing an immigration dilemma. Some entered on parole, others on visas or under the ESTA program.

Now, many fear losing their status, especially after the recent mass revocations of permits by the federal government.

The Cuban Adjustment Act: a path still available

Even if parole is revoked, there is still a legal option: the Cuban Adjustment Act. This legislation allows you to apply for permanent residency after completing one year and one day of physical presence in the country, provided your entry was legal.

"The important thing is to prove that you entered legally. That includes parole, even if it was subsequently canceled," explains a lawyer consulted in Miami.

Parole canceled, work permit lost

One of the main problems for those who lose their parole is the automatic cancellation of their work permit. This means they are exposed to months without legal income while they wait to meet the deadline to apply for residency.

Many will have to rely on support from family and friends or turn to informal jobs. The situation is even more difficult for those who have recently arrived and haven't built a support network in the country.

ESTA, visas, and parole: three different paths, one destination

Cubans who entered with a tourist visa or under the ESTA program can also benefit from the Adjustment Act, provided they have not left the country before completing the required period.

However, ESTA has been discontinued for Cubans since Washington placed the island on the list of state sponsors of terrorism in 2021. Even so, those who entered through this route before the change can still benefit from the regulations.

What happens if no action is taken?

The situation is clear: when parole expires without initiating any immigration proceedings, the status becomes illegal. And that opens the door to deportation proceedings.

"We are seeing a general tightening of immigration policies. We mustn't wait until it's too late," warn immigration experts.

Furthermore, lawyers recommend not leaving the country under any circumstances, as reentry could be denied. They insist on gathering all necessary documentation and, if possible, starting an asylum application or applying for the Adjustment Act if the time has already expired.

An uncertain future, but with options

The cancellation of parole, ordered by the Donald Trump administration, has created a domino effect among thousands of migrants from Cuba, Venezuela, Haiti, and Nicaragua. Many organizations have denounced the measure and filed lawsuits.

In the meantime, affected Cubans must act quickly. Legal avenues still exist, but they require initiative and professional advice. Waiting could mean losing everything.