New Parole-in-Place Program Offers Stability to Immigrant Families

U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) office located in downtown San Francisco; USCIS is an agency of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS)

On June 18, 2024, the Biden administration announced a new program aimed at promoting family unity within the immigration system. Also known as the “Process to Promote the Unity and Stability of Families,” this new Parole in Place (PIP) program offers certain undocumented spouses of U.S. citizens a pathway to lawful permanent residence without having to leave the country. Here’s everything you need to know about this new policy and how it can benefit you and your loved ones.

Understanding the New Process to Promote the Unity and Stability of Families

The new Process to Promote the Unity and Stability of Families program, introduced by the Biden administration, offers temporary legal status to noncitizen spouses and children of U.S. citizens who are already in the country without lawful status. This initiative aims to promote family unity by allowing eligible individuals to remain in the United States (a parole-in-place) while they apply for other immigration benefits, including lawful permanent resident (LPR) status, without the need to leave the country. The program is designed to alleviate the hardships and uncertainties faced by immigrant families, providing a more compassionate and streamlined path to stability.

What is Parole in Place (PIP)?

The Parole in Place program is designed to provide temporary protections and work permits to noncitizen spouses of U.S. citizens who have been continuously present in the United States for at least 10 years. This initiative allows eligible individuals to apply for lawful permanent resident (LPR) status—commonly known as a green card—without risking separation from their families by leaving the U.S. to process their applications at a consulate abroad.

Why Was This Parole-in-Place Program Introduced?

The primary goal of the PIP program is to address the significant challenges faced by undocumented spouses of U.S. citizens who entered the country without inspection. Previously, these individuals had to leave the U.S. to apply for a green card, which often triggered lengthy reentry bars and caused years of separation from their families. The PIP program eliminates this obstacle, providing a more straightforward and humane path to permanent residency.

Eligibility Criteria for Parole in Place

To qualify for the Parole in Place program, applicants must meet several key criteria:

Basic Eligibility Requirements

Continuous Presence: Applicants must have been continuously present in the U.S. for at least 10 years as of June 17, 2024.
Marital Status: Applicants must have a legally valid marriage to a U.S. citizen as of June 17, 2024.
No Disqualifying Criminal History: Applicants must not have any criminal convictions that would disqualify them or pose a threat to national security or public safety.
Merit Favorable Exercise of Discretion: Applicants must demonstrate that they merit a favorable exercise of discretion.

Additional Considerations

For Noncitizen Children: Children of eligible noncitizen spouses may also qualify for parole if they meet certain criteria, including being physically present in the U.S. without admission or parole and having a qualifying stepchild relationship with a U.S. citizen parent.

If you believe you or a loved one may be eligible for the Parole in Place program, consulting with an experienced immigration lawyer is crucial. The dedicated team at Bassey Immigration Law Center is ready to help assess your eligibility and guide you through the application process, ensuring that you and your family receive the support you need to navigate this opportunity successfully.

Application Process and Timeline

When Can You Apply for the Parole-in-Place Program?

USCIS will begin accepting applications for the Parole in Place program starting August 19, 2024. It is crucial to note that any applications submitted before this date will be rejected. Detailed information on the application process, including the required forms and fees, will be published in a forthcoming Federal Register notice.

Preparing for Your Application

Although applications are not yet being accepted, you can begin preparing by gathering the necessary documentation to establish your eligibility. Key documents include:

Proof of Marriage: A legally valid marriage certificate.
Proof of Identity: Documents such as a valid state or country driver’s license, birth certificate with photo ID, or valid passport.
Proof of Continuous Presence: Documents showing continuous presence in the U.S. for at least 10 years, such as rent receipts, utility bills, school records, medical records, and tax returns.
Proof of Spouse’s U.S. Citizenship: Documents such as a U.S. passport, birth certificate, or Certificate of Naturalization.

What are the Benefits of the Parole in Place Program?

Keeping Families Together

The PIP program is a significant step towards keeping families together. By allowing noncitizen spouses to apply for adjustment of status without leaving the country, it prevents the heartache of long-term separation and provides a more secure and stable future for families.

Pathway to Lawful Permanent Residency

Once granted parole, eligible individuals can apply for lawful permanent residence within the U.S. This pathway not only offers temporary protections and work permits but also a chance to become a permanent resident and eventually a U.S. citizen.

Peace of Mind for Immigrant Families

The PIP program provides much-needed peace of mind for immigrant families who have been living in uncertainty for years. It ensures that families can stay together while navigating the complex immigration process, reducing the stress and anxiety associated with potential separation.

Take the Next Step Towards Family Unity with the Parole-in-Place Program

The new Parole in Place program represents a hopeful opportunity for many families to achieve stability and unity in the United States. If you believe you or a loved one may be eligible for this program, now is the time to start preparing.

At Bassey Immigration Law Center, we understand the importance of keeping families together. Our experienced and compassionate team is here to guide you through the application process and help you navigate this new policy. Contact us today to schedule a consultation with one of our Florida immigration attorneys and take the first step towards securing a stable future for your family. Let us help you turn this opportunity into a reality.