In a controversial immigration policy move, more than 6,000 living immigrants in the United States have been officially marked as deceased by federal authorities, effectively nullifying their social security numbers and cutting them off from essential services and benefits.

The individuals affected were lawfully residing in the U.S. under temporary humanitarian or parole programs introduced during the previous administration. By invalidating their social security numbers—key identifiers used for employment, banking, and accessing public services—officials are effectively removing their ability to work legally, open bank accounts, or access social assistance.

The policy appears to be aimed at pressuring these individuals to voluntarily leave the country, a strategy often referred to as “self-deportation.” Without valid social security credentials, affected immigrants may face serious challenges in daily life, from receiving wages to renting housing or obtaining health care.

These social security numbers were originally issued to facilitate lawful employment and participation in federal systems for those temporarily allowed to live and work in the country. The recent decision, however, treats these individuals as deceased in official records, despite their continued presence in the U.S.

This initiative is part of a larger effort to re-evaluate and potentially dismantle immigration pathways established in recent years. Among those targeted are individuals who arrived through digital entry platforms and streamlined parole processes that were intended to provide temporary refuge or work opportunities in the United States.

Critics argue that the move may disrupt families, destabilize communities, and create legal uncertainty for thousands of individuals who previously held lawful status. Supporters, however, view the measure as a necessary step to reassert immigration control and address long-standing concerns over system misuse.

The broader implications of this decision are still unfolding, as legal and advocacy groups monitor its effects on the immigrant population and challenge the policy’s implementation on ethical and humanitarian grounds.