Parole in Place (PIP) has been a valuable option for undocumented family members of U.S. military personnel or veterans, offering protection from deportation and eligibility for work permits. In June 2024, President Biden announced a major expansion of the program to cover undocumented spouses and stepchildren of U.S. citizens, even without military ties, allowing more families to remain together while seeking lawful status.
However, recent legal developments have temporarily impacted the program. On August 26, 2024, a federal judge from the Eastern District of Texas issued an administrative stay, preventing the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) from approving PIP applications for undocumented spouses and stepchildren of U.S. citizens. The stay was extended, and as of September 11, 2024, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit upheld the pause on approvals, pending further legal review.
Despite this halt, you can still file Form I-131F for Parole in Place. USCIS will continue to accept applications, but no decisions will be made until the legal matter is resolved. In this blog, we’ll explain what you need to know about the new Form I-131F, the application process, and how these recent changes might affect your case.
What Is Form I-131F?
The June 2024 expansion of the Parole in Place program extended its protections beyond military families to non-military undocumented spouses and stepchildren of U.S. citizens.
To apply for PIP under this new expansion, eligible individuals must file Form I-131F, “Application for Parole in Place for Certain Noncitizen Spouses and Stepchildren of U.S. Citizens.” This form can now be submitted online, streamlining the process for applicants. Form I-131F helps undocumented family members remain in the country while they work toward lawful permanent residency, providing critical support during the immigration process.
Who Can Apply for Parole in Place?
Parole in Place allows certain undocumented family members of U.S. citizens to stay in the United States temporarily, providing relief from deportation and preventing family separation. Historically, PIP was available to spouses, children, and parents of U.S. military members. However, as of August 19, 2024, undocumented spouses and stepchildren of non-military U.S. citizens are also eligible to apply for this benefit.
PIP offers temporary legal status and allows qualifying family members to remain in the country while they apply for lawful permanent residence (a green card) without needing to leave the U.S. This is particularly valuable for families who might otherwise face lengthy separation during the immigration process.
Eligible applicants include:
- Spouses, children, and parents of U.S. military personnel or veterans
- Undocumented spouses and stepchildren of U.S. citizens who have been continuously present in the U.S. for at least ten years as of June 17, 2024
What Are the Benefits of Parole in Place?
Parole in Place offers significant benefits for undocumented family members of U.S. citizens. The primary advantage is protection from deportation, allowing eligible individuals to remain in the U.S. legally without fear of removal.
In addition to protection from deportation, Parole in Place also provides eligibility for a work permit, allowing the applicant to legally work in the United States. This can offer financial stability for families while the applicant pursues more permanent immigration options. Moreover, receiving Parole in Place may serve as a stepping stone toward obtaining a green card.
Helping You Through the Parole in Place Process
At Rahimi Law Firm, P.C., we are committed to helping families navigate the complexities of the Parole in Place process, even with the recent changes. While the government has temporarily paused the approval of new applications, you can still submit Form I-131F. We will guide you through every step of the application process to ensure you’re prepared when approvals resume. Contact us today for a consultation to see if Parole in Place is an option for your family and how we can help protect your loved ones during this uncertain time.