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Form I-131F, Complete Guide to Filing

Parole in Place Application Aug 2024

Introduction

Form I-131F, known as an Application for Parole in Place, is an essential document for undocumented spouses and stepchildren of U.S. citizens who wish to remain legally in the U.S. despite entering without proper documentation. This guide offers an in-depth look into eligibility criteria, filing process fees, potential penalties and online submission processes associated with Form I-131F in order to help navigate its complexities effectively.

What Is Form I-131F?

Form I-131F can be used to apply for parole in place for noncitizen spouses and stepchildren of U.S. citizens. This temporary measure enables eligible individuals to remain legally in the country while working towards resolving their immigration status issues; parole in place does not confer lawful immigration status but simply temporary legal presence

To qualify for parole in place through Form I-131F, you must meet the following criteria:

Who Is Eligible to File Form I-131F?

To be eligible for parole in place under Form I-131F, applicants must meet specific criteria:

1. Noncitizen Spouse or Stepchild of a U.S. Citizen:

  • Spouse: You must be married to a U.S. citizen. The marriage must have been legally valid as of a certain date (June 17, 2024).

  • Stepchild: You must be the stepchild of a U.S. citizen, with your noncitizen parent having been married to the U.S. citizen on or before June 17, 2024, and before your 18th birthday.
     

2. Presence in the U.S. Without Admission or Parole:

  • The applicant must have entered the U.S. without undergoing the official immigration process of admission or parole.
     

3. Continuous Physical Presence:

  • Spouses: Continuous physical presence in the U.S. since June 17, 2024.

  • Stepchildren: Continuous physical presence in the U.S. since June 17, 2024.
     

4. No Disqualifying Criminal History:

  • Applicants should not have a criminal record that includes crimes that would disqualify them from parole. Minor offenses might not disqualify you, but serious felonies, crimes involving moral turpitude, or security-related offenses will likely lead to a denial.
     

5. No Threat to National Security or Public Safety

  • The applicant must not pose any threat to the safety or security of the United States.

USCIS also reserves the right to deny parole in place if it determines that granting it is not in the best interest of the public or if the applicant does not meet other discretionary criteria.

Filing Process for Form I-131F

I-131F instructions

Step 1: Collect Required Information and Documents

Gather all necessary personal information and documents, including:

  • Full legal name and any other names used

  • Current mailing and physical addresses

  • Contact information (phone and email)

  • Date of birth

  • Alien Registration Number (A-Number), if applicable

  • Country of birth and citizenship

  • Marital status and date of marriage (if applicable)

  • U.S. Social Security number (if any)

  • USCIS online account number (if any)

  • Biographical details (height, weight, eye and hair color, race, ethnicity)

Preparer or Interpreter Information:

  • If you have a preparer or interpreter assist you with the form, you need to provide their name, contact information, and relationship to you.

Step 2: Identity Verification

You must provide a copy of a valid, government-issued photo ID that clearly shows your name and date of birth. Acceptable documents include:

  • A driver’s license

  • Passport identity page

  • National identity document from your home country

  • School-issued identification card with a photo

  • Any other official identity document with a photo (even if expired)

Step 3: Proof of Spouse/Stepparent’s U.S. Citizenship

Submit evidence proving your spouse or stepparent’s U.S. citizenship, such as:

  • U.S. birth certificate

  • U.S. passport

  • Naturalization Certificate

  • Certificate of Citizenship

  • Consular Report of Birth Abroad

Step 4: Proof of Relationship

Provide documentation showing your relationship to the U.S. citizen:

  • Marriage certificate (for spouses)

  • Termination documents of previous marriages (if applicable)

  • Birth certificate showing your noncitizen parent’s name (for stepchildren)

  • Death certificate of your spouse/stepparent or noncitizen parent (if applicable)

Step 5: Continuous Physical Presence Documentation

To show that you have been continuously present in the U.S. since the required date, submit any of the following:

  • Immigration Documents: Documents like Form I-862 (Notice to Appear) can establish your date of entry.

  • Rent Receipts or Utility Bills: These should be dated and can be in the name of your parents or legal guardians if necessary.

  • Tax Returns/Transcripts: These documents can prove long-term residence.

  • School Records: Transcripts, report cards, or other school documentation.

  • Medical Records: Documents showing treatments or hospitalizations in the U.S.

  • Religious Records: Proof of religious ceremonies or rites attended.

  • Other Documents: These could include bank statements, vehicle registration, deeds, or correspondence that are dated and show your presence in the U.S.

Step 6: Addressing Criminal History

If you have been arrested or charged with a crime, you must provide documentation showing the outcome. Minor traffic violations are generally not required unless they involve alcohol or drugs.

Step 7: Additional Evidence

Include any other supporting evidence that might strengthen your application, such as demonstrating significant public benefit, humanitarian reasons, or any other discretionary factors.

File Requirements for Submitting Documents

When submitting documents to USCIS, keep these rules in mind:​

  • Accepted file types: Use JPG, JPEG, PDF, TIF, or TIFF formats. Word and BMP files are not accepted.

  • No encryption: Files should not be encrypted or password protected.

  • Translations: If a document is in a foreign language, include a full English translation and a certification from the translator.

  • Upload limit: Upload no more than five documents at a time.

  • File size: Each file should be 12MB or less.

  • File names: Use English letters, numbers, spaces, hyphens, underscores, periods, and parentheses in file names.

  • Clarity: Make sure all documents are clear and easy to read.

How Much Does Form I-131F Cost?

Knowing the costs for filing Form I-131F is important. Here’s a quick breakdown:

  • Filing fee: $580.

  • How to file: You must file online using your myUSCIS account.

  • No fee waivers: You cannot request a fee waiver for this form.

Form I-131F: Important Considerations

Filing Requirements and Costs

  • No Simultaneous Filing: Applying for work authorization (Form I-765) before obtaining parole is not permitted.
     

  • Digital Submission: Paper submissions for Form I-131F are not accepted. Electronic filing is mandatory.
     

  • Document Fees: Obtaining necessary documents like birth certificates or marriage licenses may incur additional costs.
     

  • Translation Fees: If your documents are not in English, you'll need to pay for translation services.
     

  • Future Expenses: Consider potential costs associated with adjusting your status to a lawful permanent resident after obtaining parole.

Refund Policy:

  • USCIS does not refund fees, regardless of any action taken on your application or the time it takes to reach a decision.
     

  • By continuing this transaction, you acknowledge that you must submit the exact fee amount and that you are paying the fees for a government service.

Key Considerations

Penalties for False Information

Providing false information or fraudulent documents on Form I-131F can have serious consequences:

  • Denial of Application: If USCIS determines that any part of your application is fraudulent, your request for parole will be denied.

  • Legal Penalties: You may be subject to fines or imprisonment if convicted of fraud.

  • Immigration Consequences: Fraudulent information can result in removal proceedings and a permanent ban from the United States.

Parole Revocation 

Even after parole is granted, it can be revoked under certain circumstances:
 

  • Violation of Terms: If you violate the terms of your parole (e.g., committing a crime, failing to comply with USCIS requirements), USCIS can revoke your parole.

  • New Evidence: If new evidence comes to light that disqualifies you from parole, USCIS may revoke it.

  • National Security Concerns: If you are found to be a threat to national security or public safety, your parole will be revoked.

Revocation of parole may result in removal proceedings, and you could be required to leave the United States.

Online Filing Procedure

Form I-131F must be filed online through the USCIS website. Here’s how to complete the online submission process:
 

Step 1: Create a USCIS Online Account

If you haven’t already, you need to create an account on the USCIS website. This account will allow you to file Form I-131F, track your case, and receive notifications about your application.
 

Step 2: Complete the Online Form

Log into your account and start the application process by selecting Form I-131F. Follow the prompts to fill in your personal information and upload the required documents. Ensure all information is accurate and complete to avoid delays.
 

Step 3: Pay the I-131 Filing Fee

The filing fee for Form I-131F is currently $580. This fee must be paid online through the USCIS website using a credit card, debit card, or electronic bank transfer. Be sure to check the USCIS website for the most current fee, as fees are subject to change.
 

Step 4: Submit the Form

After reviewing your application and ensuring all information is correct, submit the form online. You will receive a confirmation receipt with a receipt number, which you can use to track your application status.
 

Step 5: Attend Biometrics Appointment (if required)

In some cases, USCIS may require you to attend a biometrics appointment. This appointment involves providing fingerprints, a photograph, and your signature for background checks. You will be notified of the date, time, and location of the appointment if it is needed.

Additional Information Added:​

  • Filing Fees: Provided the current filing fee for Form I-131F and noted that fees are subject to change.
     

  • Penalties for False Information: Detailed the consequences of submitting fraudulent information on the application.
     

  • Revocation of Parole: Explained the circumstances under which granted parole can be revoked, including violations of terms or new disqualifying evidence.
     

  • Online Filing Procedure: Included step-by-step instructions for filing the form online through the USCIS website, from account creation to submission and payment

This extended guide should give you all the information you need to understand and complete Form I-131F successfully.

After Filing: What Happens Next?

1. Receipt of Application

  • After you submit your application online, you will receive a confirmation receipt from USCIS. This receipt includes your receipt number, which you can use to check the status of your application.
     

2. Biometrics Appointment

  • In most cases, you will be required to attend a biometrics appointment, where USCIS will collect your fingerprints, photograph, and signature. This information is used for background checks.
     

3. Interview (if required)

  • Depending on your case, USCIS may require you to attend an interview. During the interview, a USCIS officer will ask questions to verify the information provided in your application.
     

4. Decision

  • USCIS will review all the evidence submitted and make a decision on your parole application. If approved, you will receive a notice granting parole in place, allowing you to remain in the U.S. temporarily. If denied, the notice will explain the reasons for the denial and may provide information on how to appeal or address the issues.
     

5. Appeal or Reapply

  • If your application is denied, you may have the option to appeal the decision or reapply with additional evidence. Consult with an immigration attorney to determine the best course of action.

Key Considerations
 

  • Discretionary Nature: Remember that parole in place is not a right but a discretionary benefit. Even if you meet all the eligibility criteria, USCIS has the authority to deny your application.
     

  • Impact on Immigration Status: Parole in place does not provide lawful immigration status or a pathway to citizenship. It is a temporary measure that allows you to remain in the U.S. legally while you explore other immigration options.
     

  • Legal Assistance: Consider seeking legal advice from an immigration attorney to ensure that your application is complete and that you understand your rights and options.


​The content of this article is intended to provide a general guideline to the subject matter. If you need further assistance or additional information, feel free to ask! +1801-900-6976

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