Everything You Need to Know About the Parole in Place Program

What is Parole in Place (PIP)? 

Parole in Place (PIP) is an immigration measure that provides temporary legal status, work authorization, and protection from deportation to certain undocumented family members of U.S. military personnel and, more recently, to noncitizen spouses and stepchildren of U.S. citizens. This program is designed to promote family unity and alleviate the hardships imposed by immigration constraints.

Who Qualifies for PIP? 

Initially exclusive to military families, PIP has been expanded to include non-military families under specific conditions:

• Military-related Eligibility: This includes spouses, children, and parents of active-duty members of the U.S. Armed Forces, reservists, and veterans.
• Expanded Eligibility: As of June 17, 2024, undocumented spouses and certain stepchildren of U.S. citizens who have resided in the U.S. for at least ten years qualify. Eligibility requires a valid marriage to a U.S. citizen as of June 17, 2024.

Cost of Parole in Place

• For Military Families: Military families are not required to pay a filing fee for PIP applications.
• For Non-Military Applicants (New PIP Expansion): From August 19, 2024, the USCIS filing fee for Form I-131F is $580, and no fee waivers or exemptions are available.

How Long Does Parole in Place Last? 

PIP typically grants a one-year authorized stay in the U.S., which can be extended or renewed depending on individual circumstances and at the discretion of the USCIS. This flexibility is crucial as it ensures that eligible individuals are shielded from deportation while they apply for a green card.

Benefits of PIP

• Temporary Legal Status: PIP offers lawful presence to eligible individuals in the U.S.
• Work Authorization: Recipients of PIP can apply for and obtain authorization to work legally in the U.S.
• Pathway to Adjustment: PIP can facilitate the adjustment of status to a green card, especially under circumstances that would normally require an individual to leave the country.

Requirements to Apply for PIP

For Military Families:

Prepare Documentation:

• Proof of family relationship (e.g., birth certificates, marriage certificates).
• Proof of military service (e.g., DD Form 214 for veterans, military ID for active duty).
• Evidence of physical presence in the United States, such as bank statements, utility bills, or rental agreements.
• Parole in Place cover letter explaining the circumstances and hardships due to potential separation from the military family member or U.S. citizen spouse.

Complete Forms:

• Form I-131 (“Application for Travel Document”): Required to request parole. This form must be filed with USCIS along with your supporting documentation.
• Form I-765 (“Application for Employment Authorization”): To obtain permission to work legally in the U.S.

Submit Application:

• Submit the completed forms and supporting documents to the appropriate USCIS office, including a cover letter explaining the PIP request.

Attend Biometrics Appointment:

• USCIS may require a biometrics appointment for fingerprints and photos.

Wait for Decision:

• USCIS will review the application and notify you of their decision. If approved, the applicant will receive a Notice of Approval granting parole.

For PIP Expansion (Non-Military Spouses and Stepchildren):

Prepare to File Online:

• Create a USCIS online account if you don’t already have one.
• Form I-131F must be filed online for each individual seeking parole.

Gather Required Information:

• Personal details (name, address, contact information, birth date, etc.).
• Alien Registration Number (A-Number), if any.
• U.S. Social Security number, if any.
• Marital status and marriage date, if applicable.
• Biographical information (height, weight, hair and eye color, race, and ethnicity).

Collect Required Evidence:

• Proof of Identity: Copy of an official photo identity document (can be expired).
• Evidence of Spouse/Stepparent’s U.S. Citizenship: U.S. birth certificate, Naturalization Certificate, etc.
• Evidence of Relationship: Marriage certificate for spouses, birth certificate with noncitizen parent’s name for stepchildren.
• Evidence of Continuous Physical Presence: Since June 17, 2014, for spouses; since June 17, 2024, for stepchildren.
• Criminal History Information, if applicable.

Complete and Submit Form I-131F Online:

• Fill out all required fields in the online form.
• Upload all required evidence.
• Pay the required fees.

Attend Biometrics Appointment:

• USCIS will schedule a biometrics appointment as part of the process.

Wait for Decision:

• USCIS will review your application and may request additional information. You will be notified of the decision.

The Parole in Place program plays a crucial role for families navigating the complexities of U.S. immigration laws. By understanding the eligibility criteria and application processes, eligible individuals can secure their presence in the U.S., contribute to their communities, and pursue long-term immigration solutions. As always, staying informed with up-to-date information and obtaining appropriate legal advice when necessary is vital for effectively navigating this process.

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