The United States and the Cuban Government signed a joint statement by which they rescinded certain policies unique to Cuban nationals. As a result the DHS has eliminated the long-standing "wet-foot/dry-foot" policy, as well as the Cuban Medical Professional Parole policy. In addition, DHS is eliminating the exemption that previously prevented the use of expedited removal proceedings for Cubans apprehended at or near U.S borders. The Cuban family reunificatoin parole program will remain in place.

The policy change is a function of President Obama having established full diplomatic relations between the United states and Cuba. The changes are effective 1/12/2017.