Parole in Place, a special immigration program for family of U.S. military, may be in its final days. If you were considering applying, now is the time.
What Is Parole in Place?
Parole in Place allows relatives of U.S. military to apply for permanent residency without having to leave the United States—even if they entered the country illegally.
It is not a waiver. It doesn't forgive crimes or other grounds of inadmissibility. All it does is give a fictitious lawful entry so that you can apply for permanent residency while remaining in the United States, eliminating the risk of travelling abroad and possibly not being let back in.
It’s a way for someone with an otherwise clean background to immigrate within the United States and not have to leave the country.
Is Parole in Place Ending?
There has been talk, beginning in June 2019, that the program would be ending in about a month. As of late September, nothing official has happened. However, there remains a leak saying that this is going to happen soon.
So what should you do? I strongly advise you to hurry up! If you are planning on filing for parole in place, apply now! Get it done as soon as possible. It looks like the program may be terminated any day.
But, before you apply, consult an immigration attorney. Make sure you don't have any other immigration issues and make sure that you have a case that will qualify.
Who Is Eligible for Parole in Place?
Family of active U.S. military or military members that have been honorably discharged may be eligible for Parole in Place.
You may be eligible for Parole in Place if your military family member is:
- An active-duty member of the U.S. armed forces
- An individual in the Selected Reserve of the Ready Reserve
- An individual who (whether still living or deceased) previously served on active duty or in the Selected Reserve of the Ready Reserve and was not dishonorably discharged
Eligible relatives for Parole in Place:
- Spouse or widow(er)
- Parent
- Child under age 21
You must have entered the U.S. illegally to qualify for Parole in Place. If you entered the U.S. lawfully but overstayed your visa (or are otherwise in the U.S. past your period of authorized stay), you do not need Parole in Place.
How To Apply for Parole in Place
To apply for Parole in Place you need to prove that you’re a good, moral person and an asset to the community. To do this, you can submit documents from the community such as:
- Letters from family saying they are dependent on you
- Letters from family or friends proving you have strong community and support in the United States
- Proof of any activities that show your good character such as church attendance, community service, etc.
The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) also requires you submit:
- Completed Form I-131, Application for Travel Document (without fee).
- Evidence of the family relationship, such as:
- Marriage certificate
- Documentation of termination of previous marriage
- Son or daughter’s birth certificate
- Military member’s birth certificate with parent’s name
- Proof of enrollment in the Defense Enrollment Eligibility Reporting System (DEERS)
- Evidence that your family member is a current or former member of the U.S. armed forces, such as a photocopy of the front and back of the service member’s military identification card or DD Form 214
- Two identical, color passport style photographs
Immigration Help: Applying for Parole in Place
If you have any questions about Parole in Place or think you might be eligible, I'd be happy to help. I’m a dedicated and passionate immigration attorney,
fluent in English and Spanish, located in the Los Angeles area. Call (310) 803-3040 or visit https://abaudlegal.com/appointment/ to schedule an appointment.
