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Parole in Place Program for Undocumented Spouses of U.S. Citizens to Begin Accepting Applications Starting August 19, 2024.

Understand the eligibility requirements and application process for undocumented immigrants seeking relief under the Parole in Place program 2024.

What is Parole in Place (PIP)?

Overview of the New Program

Parole in Place (PIP) is a new discretionary program designed to allow undocumented spouses of U.S. citizens to legalize their status while remaining in the United States. This initiative aims to promote family unity by eliminating the need for these individuals to travel abroad and undergo the extreme hardship "waiver" process to secure legal status.

Introduction of Parole in Place 2024

On June 18, 2024, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) announced a significant advancement aligned with President Biden’s objective to enhance family unity within the immigration system. The new parole in place Biden initiative will establish a streamlined process to review requests from certain undocumented immigrants who are married to U.S. citizens, applying a case-by-case evaluation.

Parole in Place Requirements

Eligibility Requirements for Undocumented Spouses of U.S. Citizens:

To qualify for a discretionary grant of new Parole in Place (PIP), a noncitizen spouse or stepchild of a U.S. citizen may request parole in place under this process and they must meet the following criteria for parole in place immigration requirements:

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  • Applicants must be physically present in the United States without formal admission or parole.

  • As of June 17, 2024, they must have been continuously present in the United States for at least 10 years.

  • A legally valid marriage to a U.S. citizen must be established as of June 17, 2024.

  • Applicants must not have a disqualifying criminal record and must not pose a threat to national security or public safety.

  • Applicant must submit biometrics and undergo required background checks and national security and public safety vetting.

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Eligibility for Noncitizen Children of Undocumented Spouses:

In addition to undocumented spouses, their noncitizen children may also be considered for parole on a case-by-case basis. To qualify, the noncitizen children must:

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  • Be physically present in the United States without formal admission or parole.

  • Have been continuously physically present in the United States since at least June 17, 2024, through the date of filing your request.

  • Have a noncitizen parent who entered into a legally valid marriage with a U.S. citizen on or before June 17, 2024, and before their 18th birthday;

  • Have no disqualifying criminal history and otherwise not deemed to be a threat to public safety, national security, or border security; and

  • Submit biometrics and undergo required background checks and national security and public safety vetting.

For a noncitizen child to qualify as a stepchild under the Immigration and Nationality Act, they must:

  • Be unmarried and under the age of 21.

  • As of June 17, they have been continuously physically present in the United States, if seeking parole in place as stepchild of a U.S. citizen.

  • Have a marriage between the noncitizen parent and the U.S. citizen stepparent before the child's 18th birthday.

  • Applicants must not have a disqualifying criminal record and must not pose a threat to national security or public safety.

  • Submit biometrics and undergo required background checks and national security and public safety vetting.

Who Qualifies for Parole in Place?

You may be eligible for parole in place in one-year increments if you are:

Newly Eligible (Effective August 19, 2024):

  • Undocumented spouses of U.S. citizens who have resided in the U.S. for at least 10 years as of June 17, 2024.

  • Certain noncitizen step-children of U.S. citizens (specific criteria to be announced).

Previously Eligible (Military-Related):

  • Spouses, widows/widowers, parents, or children of:

  • Active-duty U.S. armed forces members

  • Individuals in the Selected Reserve of the Ready Reserve

  • Military veterans (living or deceased) who served in active duty or in the Selected Reserve of the Ready Reserve

Preparing for Parole in Place 2024 Applications

Note:

The provided steps for the Parole in Place (PIP) application process are well-structured and cover the essential aspects of applying for Parole in Place (PIP). However, it’s crucial to verify the specifics against the most current and official USCIS guidelines or consult with an immigration attorney for personalized advice.

How to Apply for Parole in Place (PIP) ?

Important: USCIS will not accept PIP applications from non-military spouses before August 19, 2024, when the new application process officially begins.

The application process for Parole in Place (PIP) varies depending on whether you're applying under the military-related criteria or the new PIP expansion. Here’s a detailed guide to help you navigate the process.

Application Process for Parole in place Expansion (Non-Military Spouses and Stepchildren)

Follow these steps to apply for Parole in Place (PIP) under the new expansion criteria:

1. Prepare for Online Filing:
2. Collect Necessary Information:

  • Personal Information: Provide details such as name, address, contact information, and birth date.

  • Alien Registration Number (A-Number): Include if applicable.

  • U.S. Social Security Number: If available.

  • Marital Status and Marriage Date: Include if applicable.

  • Biographical Details: Provide height, weight, hair and eye color, race, and ethnicity.
     

3. Provide Required Evidence:

  • Proof of Identity: Upload a copy of an official photo ID, even if expired.

  • Evidence of Spouse/Stepparent’s U.S. Citizenship: Include a U.S. birth certificate or Naturalization Certificate.

  • Proof of Relationship:

  • Proof of Continuous Physical Presence:

    • For spouses: Since June 17, 2014.

    • For stepchildren: Since June 17, 2024.

  • Criminal History Information: Include if applicable.

4. Complete and Submit Form I-131F Online:

  • Fill out all required fields in the online form.

  • Upload all necessary documents.

  • Pay the required application fees (The filing fee is $580. Fee waiver requests for Form I-131F will not be accepted).

5. Attend Biometrics Appointment:
6. Wait for USCIS Decision:

  • USCIS will review your application, may request additional information, and will notify you of their decision.

Important Note for All Applicants: USCIS will immediately begin accepting requests from eligible individuals for this process on Aug. 19, 2024. Individuals must file Form I-131F, Application for Parole in Place for Certain Noncitizen Spouses and Stepchildren of U.S. Citizens, online after creating a myUSCIS account. 

Are you confused about the best immigration option for you? Answer simple questions to discover your ideal path, Learn more.

Benefits of Parole in Place 2024

By providing a pathway to stability and legal status, Biden new immigration policy, Parole in Place, has the potential to transform lives and communities.

Key Benefits of Parole in Place

  • Family Unification: Parole in place policy prioritizes the preservation of family bonds by allowing spouses and children of U.S. citizens to remain together in the United States.
     

  • Economic Contribution: By granting work authorization, PIP empowers individuals to become productive members of the workforce, stimulating economic growth.
     

  • Public Safety: Studies consistently demonstrate that undocumented immigrants are less likely to commit crimes. PIP aligns with public safety objectives by providing a pathway to legal status.
     

  • Humanitarian Relief: Offering a reprieve from the constant fear of deportation, PIP fosters a sense of security and stability for undocumented individuals and their families.
     

  • Foundation for Future Opportunities: While not a direct path to citizenship, PIP serves as a crucial stepping stone, enabling individuals to build towards a brighter future.

Contact us today for a consultation to discuss your options and explore how Parole in Place can transform your future, Learn more.

Protect Yourself from Immigration Scams

To avoid falling victim to immigration scams, ensure that any legal advice you receive is from a qualified professional. Only an attorney licensed to practice law in the United States or an accredited representative from a Department of Justice-recognized organization can legally advise you on immigration matters.

Common Scams to Watch For:

  • Government Impersonators

  • Scam Websites

  • Phone or Email Payment Requests

  • ​Notarios Públicos and Unauthorized Practitioners

For additional information and resources, visit our Immigration Scams Page.

Key Insights on Eligible Undocumented Spouses Married to U.S. Citizens

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  • Total Eligible Undocumented Spouses: Approximately 500,000.

  • Noncitizen stepchildren of U.S. citizens: Approximately 50,000

  • Average Age: 40 years.

  • Average Duration in the U.S.: 23 years.

  • Economic Impact if Granted Citizenship: Estimated boost of $6.6 billion to the economy."

  • Additional Tax Contributions for U.S. Citizens: $2.6 billion in total taxes.

  • Participation in the Labor Force: 81% are actively engaged in the workforce.

  • Employment in Critical Industries: 67% of workers work in sectors facing labor shortages.

  • U.S. Citizens Affected: About 1.4 million U.S. citizens live in households with an eligible undocumented spouse.​​

FAQs about Parole in Place.

Q. What is the duration of Parole in Place (PIP), and what happens once it expires?

Parole granted under this process can last up to three years, depending on the individual's case. During this time, eligible spouses of U.S. citizens can file Form I-485 (Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status) and, if needed, Form I-130 (Petition for Alien Relative). When the parole period ends, USCIS expects that the individual will either have a pending adjustment application or a completed final decision on their status adjustment.

Q: Can I Include My Children in My Parole in Place Application?

No, you cannot. Each family member must apply individually for parole in place.

Q. If USCIS denies my application for Parole in Place, could I be placed in removal proceedings?​

Yes, there is a possibility. Suppose your Parole in Place application is denied. In that case, USCIS can initiate removal proceedings, which could lead to deportation.

Q. Can Parole in Place (PIP) help you obtain a green card?

Parole in Place (PIP) does not directly lead to a green card. However, it may facilitate the status adjustment process, making it possible for individuals to apply for a green card if they qualify through other eligibility criteria.

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