Unlock the Hidden Benefits of Parole in Place for Your Family
Shawn Sedaghat, Esq.
Parole in Place (PIP) can be a game changer for families with undocumented spouses and stepchildren of U.S. citizens.
If your family members are living in the U.S. without proper documentation, PIP could be your path to staying together while avoiding the fear of deportation.
Let’s break down the Parole in Place and how its benefits can help your family feel more secure and empowered to move forward.
What is Parole in Place?
At its core, Parole in Place (PIP) is a program designed to help certain undocumented spouses and stepchildren of U.S. citizens.
It allows them to stay in the United States and avoid deportation while they adjust their status.
PIP was originally introduced for military families, but recent changes under the Biden administration have expanded it to a broader group, making it available for non-military families as well.
PIP provides temporary legal status, which means you can live, work, and stay with your family while you figure out your next steps in the immigration process.
It’s especially useful for those who have been living in the U.S. for a long time but are worried about their legal status.
Think of it as a “pause button” on any deportation concerns, giving you breathing room to pursue a more permanent solution.
Why is Parole in Place a Big Deal for Families?
Let’s be real: nothing is more important than keeping your family together.
Whether you have children, a spouse, or a parent living with you in the U.S., the thought of being separated can be terrifying.
PIP takes some of that fear away by providing protection from deportation and opening doors to a more stable future.
Temporary Protection from Deportation
The biggest benefit of PIP is that it offers protection from being deported.
This means your undocumented family members can remain in the U.S. while they work on their status.
There’s no need to leave the country and risk long-term separation, especially for those who have lived in the U.S. for many years. It’s like a safety net, giving you and your loved ones peace of mind.
Work Authorization
Once granted, PIP allows eligible individuals to apply for employment authorization.
That means they can work legally in the U.S., supporting their family and contributing to the economy. Having the ability to legally work provides security and stability, allowing families to build a better future. It’s like getting a key to unlock new opportunities and achieve financial independence.
A Path to Adjust Status
PIP isn’t a green card, but it’s a great first step. After being granted PIP, eligible individuals can apply for a green card through adjustment of status.
This process allows undocumented husbands or wives and stepchildren to apply for permanent residency without leaving the U.S., which is a big deal since leaving the U.S. could trigger reentry bans that can last years. It’s like getting a fast pass to the front of the line for permanent residency.
Who’s Eligible for Parole in Place?
To qualify for PIP, certain criteria need to be met. It depends on your relationship with a U.S. citizen and whether you’ve been continuously living in the U.S.
For Undocumented Spouses of U.S. Citizens:
- You must be married to a U.S. citizen. This means having a legally valid marriage, which you’ll need to prove with a marriage certificate.
- You must have been living continuously in the U.S. since June 17, 2014. This means no long trips out of the country since then.
- You must not have any serious criminal convictions or be seen as a threat to national security or public safety.
For Undocumented Stepchildren of U.S. Citizens:
- You must be under 21 years old and unmarried as of June 17, 2024.
- Your parents must be married to a U.S. citizen. This marriage must have happened before your 18th birthday.
- You must have been living in the U.S. continuously since June 17, 2024.
- You must not have any disqualifying criminal history or be considered a risk to public safety, national security, or border security.
Being eligible for PIP is your first step toward protection and eventually adjusting your status.
If you meet these requirements, you can start your application process to ensure your family remains together.
How Do You Apply for Parole in Place?
Applying for PIP involves completing Form I-131F, which is the official application for certain noncitizen spouses and stepchildren of U.S. citizens.
Here’s a step-by-step guide to help make the process easier:
Complete Form I-131F:
This form asks for basic information about you and your U.S. citizen family members. Make sure to fill it out accurately and completely. It’s like filling out a school registration form, but for your adjustment of status!
Gather Supporting Documents:
You’ll need proof of your relationship to a U.S. citizen (like a marriage certificate or birth certificate), proof that you’ve been living in the U.S. continuously (like rental agreements, utility bills, or school records), and any other documents that show your eligibility. Think of it like collecting puzzle pieces to complete the picture of your life in the U.S.
Submit the Filing Fee:
There’s a filing fee that must be paid when submitting your application. It’s currently $580. It’s important to include this to avoid delays in processing your application.
Create a United States Citizenship and Immigration Services Online Account and Submit Your Application:
Head over to the USCIS website and create an online account. This is where you’ll submit your completed Form I-131F and all your supporting documents. It’s like sending an email, but to the U.S. government!
Attend a Biometrics Appointment:
After submitting your application, you’ll be scheduled for a biometrics appointment where your fingerprints and photo will be taken. This is just a routine security check, nothing to worry about.
What Happens After Your Application is Approved?
After you’ve been granted Parole in Place, here are some benefits you can expect:
Temporary Legal Status:
With PIP, you and your family can stay in the U.S. legally. It’s a huge relief, especially if you’ve been living in the country without proper documentation. You no longer have to worry about deportation while you work on the next steps of your status. It’s like having a safety net while you walk the tightrope of the immigration process.Work Authorization:
Once PIP is granted, you can apply for a work permit, allowing you to legally work in the U.S. This means you can contribute financially to your family, find better opportunities, and build a stable life here. It’s like getting a toolbox to build a better future for yourself and your loved ones.Adjustment of Status:
After receiving PIP, you can take the next step toward becoming a lawful permanent resident (green card holder). This is where the adjustment of status process comes in. Since you’ll already be in the U.S., you won’t have to worry about leaving the country and triggering reentry bans. It’s like getting a fast pass to the front of the line for permanent residency.
Keeping Families Together with Parole in Place
One of the biggest benefits of PIP is that it helps keep families together.
No one wants to face separation, especially when children or parents are involved.
PIP gives you the peace of mind that your family members can stay with you, legally and without fear, while you go through the process.
Protection from Family Separation:
The Keeping Families Together initiative by the Biden administration, announced in June 2024, extends PIP to more individuals across the U.S. This initiative provides temporary protection and ensures families stay united while undergoing the process. It’s a recognition that families belong together.Stability for Children:
If you have children, PIP is a way to ensure they don’t face the emotional trauma of separation. Keeping children with their parents and allowing them to grow up in a stable environment is a key goal of PIP. It’s about giving kids the chance to thrive without the constant worry of their parents being taken away.A Path to a Better Future:
With PIP, your relatives can plan for the future with more certainty. Having the opportunity to work, stay together, and eventually adjust status provides a sense of security and stability. You can focus on building a better life without the constant fear of deportation. It’s like having a roadmap to guide you towards your dreams.
Additional Considerations
Criminal History:
If you have a serious criminal history, you might not be eligible for PIP. Certain crimes, such as drug offenses or violence, can disqualify you from receiving PIP. It’s essential to be honest about your past and consult with an immigration attorney if you have any concerns.Work Permit:
Remember, once PIP is approved, you’re eligible to apply for a work permit. This permit allows you to work legally, opening doors for better job opportunities and helping you provide for your family. It’s like getting a golden ticket to the workforce!Processing Time:
Processing times for PIP applications can vary, so it’s important to apply as soon as possible. The sooner you apply, the sooner you can take advantage of PIP’s benefits.Don’t procrastinate – get the ball rolling and start building a brighter future for your family!
Conclusion: Take Action to Protect Your Family
If you or your family members are eligible for Parole in Place, it’s a valuable opportunity to stay together, work legally, and begin the process of adjusting your status. The program offers protection and opens doors for spouses, stepchildren, and parents of U.S. citizens to live and work in the U.S. while staying connected to their loved ones.
Don’t wait—start gathering your documents, fill out Form I-131F, and take the first step toward a secure future for your family. With the right preparation, you can unlock the hidden Parole in Place benefits and protect your family from the risk of separation. Remember, it’s all about keeping your family together and building a life filled with hope and opportunity in the U.S.
FAQs
Who qualifies for Parole in Place?
Eligible individuals and applicants include undocumented spouses, stepchildren, and parents of U.S. citizens who meet the continuous residency and relationship requirements. You need to provide all necessary evidence to prove that you meet such criteria.Can I work after being granted PIP?
Yes! Once PIP is approved, you can apply for employment authorization and legally work in the U.S.What documents do I need to apply for PIP?
You’ll need to provide documents like a marriage certificate, birth certificate, proof of continuous residency, and more.How long does the process take?
Processing times can vary, but it’s best to apply early to avoid delays.Does PIP automatically lead to a green card?
No, but it does provide a pathway to apply for one through adjustment of status.