DHS Restarts Immigration Program, Adds More Vetting After Finding Fraud

The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is restarting an immigration parole program with increased vetting after finding fraud issues. DHS officials paused the program in early August after officials found U.S.-based sponsors of applicants used fake Social Security numbers and other information. The relaunched program will include additional vetting of the sponsors, their financial records, and criminal backgrounds, a DHS spokesperson said on Aug. 29. The government launched the program for Venezuelans in 2022 as part of President Joe Biden’s pledge to welcome more immigrants. The program was expanded to nationals of Cuba, Haiti, and Nicaragua in early 2023. The applicants must have a U.S.-based financial sponsor who vouches for them and flies them into an American airport. Up to 30,000 people a month are approved. Those approved can remain in the United States for at least two years and are eligible for work authorization....