A federal judge in Boston has issued a critical ruling temporarily blocking the Trump administration's attempt to dismantle a humanitarian immigration program that has granted legal status to over 500,000 migrants from Cuba, Nicaragua, Venezuela, and Haiti. The decision, handed down by Judge Indira Talwani, protects thousands of families from losing legal authorization to live and work in the United States—and marks a significant win for lawful immigration pathways.

What Was at Stake?

The Biden-era program, launched to create an orderly, legal process for entry into the U.S., allowed eligible migrants from the four named countries to enter and reside in the U.S. for up to two years, provided they had a U.S.-based financial sponsor and passed background checks. It was designed as a pragmatic tool to reduce dangerous and unauthorized border crossings by offering a structured alternative.

In March, the Trump team—preparing for a second term—moved to terminate this program, providing little notice to those affected. Participants faced losing their status by April 24, with few options: either self-deport or await formal removal proceedings. In her ruling, Judge Talwani wrote that this “forced choice” posed serious harm to law-abiding migrants who had relied on the program in good faith.

The Legal Landscape

This ruling is the latest legal roadblock in a broader campaign by the Trump administration to reverse key humanitarian immigration policies. Other efforts underway include:

• Revoking Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Venezuelans—a move currently blocked by another federal court.

• Ending relief measures for Afghan and Cameroonian nationals, many of whom aided U.S. efforts abroad and now face imminent danger if returned.

The court's decision in Boston affirms that programs offering temporary protections must not be revoked in a way that jeopardizes due process or causes abrupt legal and humanitarian consequences for those who complied with U.S. laws and procedures.

Why It Matters

At Saluja Law, we believe this ruling underscores the importance of structured, legal migration programs that prioritize both security and dignity. The now-preserved program has served not only as a humanitarian bridge but also as a stabilizing force—reducing irregular migration and allowing migrants to contribute lawfully to the U.S. economy.

The Trump administration argues that such programs incentivize future migration without a “durable” path to permanent status. However, sudden reversals—especially without legislative alternatives—risk undermining public confidence in the immigration system and penalizing those who followed the rules.

Looking Ahead

While this ruling offers temporary protection, legal challenges and political efforts to terminate humanitarian immigration programs remain ongoing. For current participants or prospective sponsors, staying informed and legally prepared is critical.

Saluja Law will continue to monitor these developments closely and advocate for policies that balance national interest with compassion, fairness, and legal integrity. If you or your family are impacted by this program or similar humanitarian protections, please contact our office to discuss your options.

For legal assistance with humanitarian parole, TPS, or other immigration matters, reach out to Saluja Law Offices, PLLC today.