H-1B Visa Update, Venezuela TPS Extended, CHNV Parole Program Ending, and More
Venezuela TPS Work Authorization Extended
March 31, 2025 – A U.S. District Judge blocked DHS from ending the 2023 Venezuela TPS designation. Work permits (EADs) in categories A12 or C19 are automatically extended until April 2, 2026.
Applies to EADs with expiration dates of:
September 9, 2022
March 10, 2024
April 2, 2025
September 10, 2025
Employers should monitor USCIS TPS Venezuela website for compliance updates and reach out to our experienced immigration attorneys with any additional questions.
CHNV Parole Programs Will Still End: April 24, 2025
DHS announced that the CHNV parole programs for Cuba, Haiti, Nicaragua, and Venezuela will end on April 24, 2025. As a result, employees working under this program with C11-category Employment Authorization Documents (EADs) will lose work authorization on that date. Employers must complete I-9 reverification for affected employees before April 24, 2025, and ensure they have an alternative work authorization to remain employed. Those without a valid immigration status must depart the U.S. before their parole expires.
While the recent court ruling extended Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Venezuelans, this does not impact CHNV parole programs for Cuba, Haiti, Nicaragua or Venezuela—their parole status and work authorization will still end as scheduled. Employers with impacted workers should encourage them to explore options such as adjustment of status, asylum, or TPS (if eligible) to maintain employment eligibility. Consulting with an immigration attorney now can help both employers and employees prepare for the upcoming deadline.
Implications of H-1B Visa Record Deletion on Compliance
The U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) has initiated the deletion of H-1B visa records older than five years from the Foreign Labor Application Gateway (FLAG) system, effective March 20, 2025. This action means that historical case data will no longer be accessible through the FLAG system, potentially hindering employers and applicants who require these records for visa renewals, employer verification, or legal matters.
In light of this development, it is crucial for employers to seek legal guidance and work with their legal teams to implement best practices for record-keeping.
DHS Closes Oversight Offices, Impacting Immigration Processes
As of March 21, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has officially closed the offices of the CIS Ombudsman, the Office for Civil Rights and Civil Liberties (CRCL), and the Immigration Detention Ombudsman (OIDO). These offices were responsible for addressing immigration-related complaints, civil rights violations, and detention conditions.
With these offices no longer operational, any pending inquiries with the CIS Ombudsman’s office are considered closed. As a result, urgent cases should now be directed to congressional offices..
Increase in FDNS Audits: What H-1B Employers Need to Know
The Fraud Detection and National Security (FDNS) Directorate has increased its audit efforts, leading to a higher number of unannounced site visits for H-1B employers. This rise in enforcement aligns with new H-1B regulations implemented in 2025, which emphasize stricter compliance measures for remote work, third-party placements, and wage verification.
H-1B employers should be proactive in preparing for site visits by maintaining up-to-date Public Access Files (PAFs), ensuring employees are working under the terms specified in their petitions, and training HR personnel on how to handle FDNS inspections. Any inconsistencies in worksite location, job duties, or wages could lead to penalties or visa revocations. Monty & Ramirez LLP is here to help. Contact our experienced immigration team to ensure you are fully prepared and protected.
Social Media and Organizational Affiliations: A New Consideration for Business Immigration
USCIS has proposed a new policy that would require certain business immigration applicants, including those applying for work visas, employment-based green cards, and investor visas, to disclose their social media handles from the past five years. This initiative aims to enhance identity verification and national security screening. Employers sponsoring foreign workers should be aware that an applicant’s online activity—such as posts, comments, or interactions—could be reviewed during the adjudication process.
Additionally, USCIS may consider an applicant’s membership in certain organizations, including professional associations, advocacy groups, or online communities. Business immigration applicants should carefully review their social media activity and affiliations before applying to avoid unnecessary complications. Employers and HR professionals navigating these new compliance challenges should consult with experienced immigration attorneys.
April 2025 Visa Bulletin
A. Final Action Dates for Employment-Based Visa Applications
For April 2025, USCIS announced it will use the Final Action Dates chart published by the Department of State.
| Category | All Chargeability | China (Mainland) | India | Mexico | Philippines |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| EB-1 | C | 08NOV22 | 01FEB22 | C | C |
| EB-2 | 22JUN23 | 01OCT20 | 01JAN13 | 22JUN23 | 22JUN23 |
| EB-3 | 01JAN23 | 01NOV20 | 01APR13 | 01JAN23 | 01JAN23 |
| Other Workers | 22MAY21 | 01APR17 | 01APR13 | 22MAY21 | 22MAY21 |
| EB-4 / Religious Workers | U | U | U | U | U |
| EB-5 Unreserved | C | 22JAN14 | 01NOV19 | C | C |
| EB-5 Set-Asides (All) | C | C | C | C | C |
📌 “U” means unauthorized (no visas available). “C” means current (all qualified applicants may file).
Upcoming Webinar: Business Immigration & The Trump Administration – April 30
📅 Date: April 30, 2025
🕕 Time: 6:00 PM CST
🎙️ Speakers: Sarah Monty & Saif Ali
Join us for:
- Key takeaways from the first 100 days of Trump’s second term
- Changes in business immigration policy and compliance expectations
- Practical guidance on adapting your visa strategy
👉 Don’t miss this timely session. RSVP through our website or contact us to register.
Have Questions? We’re Here to Help
Whether you’re preparing for FDNS audits, navigating CHNV expiration, or filing employment-based petitions, Monty & Ramirez LLP is your trusted immigration partner.
📞 Call: 281-493-5529
📧 Email: info@montyramirezlaw.com
🌐 Visit: www.montyramirezlaw.com
✅ Monty & Ramirez LLP – We Know What Works.