So, you’ve been granted Parole in Place (PIP). That’s fantastic news! But what happens after Parole in Place Approval?
What should you do next to make sure you and your family members take full advantage of the opportunities available to you?
Understanding the next steps is super important, and that’s exactly what this guide will cover.
First Things First: The Biometrics Appointment
Once your Form I-131F is filed, the next big step is attending your biometrics appointment.
You’ll get a notice from the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) with the date, time, and location of the appointment.
It’s basically a check to verify your identity. At the appointment, the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) collects your fingerprints, photo, and signature. This information will be used to make sure you don’t have any criminal history and will be used on some of your future immigration documents, like your work permit.
Pro tip: Don’t miss this appointment. If something happens and you can’t make it, make sure to reschedule right away. Skipping it can slow down your application.
Receiving a Decision: What Does Approval Mean?
Now, let’s talk about what happens after your application is reviewed. If all goes well and you meet the criteria for Parole in Place, you’ll be granted parole for up to three years.
This means you’re safe from deportation for that period. You’ll receive an I-797 Approval Notice, which includes your I-94 record that shows you’ve been approved for parole.
Keep that document handy—seriously, put it somewhere safe.
Apply for a Work Permit: How to Legally Work in the U.S.
Now that you’re on parole, it’s time to think about working legally in the U.S. You can apply for a work permit (also known as an Employment Authorization Document or EAD) by filing Form I-765.
Make sure to choose the category (c)(11) on the form because that’s specifically for people on parole. This form can be filed online or by mail.
There’s a fee for the application, but if you qualify for a fee waiver, you can apply for that as well.
The best part? Once you’re approved for the work permit, you can start working legally.
That’s a big win for you and your family! Just make sure to renew your work permit before it expires so you can continue working without any interruptions.
Social Security Number (SSN)
If you don’t already have a Social Security Number (SSN), now is your chance to get one!
You can actually apply for an SSN at the same time you apply for your work permit by filling out Part 2 of Form I-765.
That’s convenient, right?
Once your work permit is approved, your SSN card will be mailed directly to you. Having an SSN allows you to work, pay taxes, and access other services, so it’s a key step in building your life here in the U.S.
Next Step: Adjusting Your Status to a Green Card Holder
Now, let’s talk about how to move from temporary parole status to something more permanent. If you’re hoping to get a green card, you’ll need to adjust your status by filing Form I-485. But, before you can do that, you’ll need to make sure an immigrant petition is filed and approved. For most people, this means having a U.S. citizen spouse file Form I-130 (Petition for Alien Relative) on your behalf. If you’re a stepchild, your U.S. citizen stepparent will file it for you.
If you’re the widow(er) of a U.S. citizen, you’ll need to file Form I-360 (Petition for Amerasian, Widow(er), or Special Immigrant). You’ll need to prove that your marriage was real or, if you’re a stepchild, that your relationship with your stepparent is genuine. Once these forms are approved, and there’s a visa available, you can move forward with your green card application.
Why You Shouldn’t Travel Outside the U.S.
This part is critical: Do not leave the U.S. after you’ve been granted Parole in Place. Leaving the country can cause your parole status to end, and you may not be allowed back into the U.S. Even with Advance Parole (a special travel document), reentry is not guaranteed. Always talk to an immigration attorney before making any travel plans.
If you leave the U.S. without the proper documents, you could lose your chance for future immigration benefits, including your chance at adjusting your status to become a lawful permanent resident (green card holder). It’s just not worth the risk.
How Parole Can End (Termination of Parole)
Parole in Place is a temporary solution, and there are a few ways it can end:
- Expiration of the Parole Period – Parole in Place is usually granted for up to three years, and once that time is up, you’ll need to apply for an extension if necessary.
- Leaving the U.S. – As mentioned earlier, traveling outside the U.S. will automatically end your parole status.
- Violation of Parole Terms – DHS can terminate your parole at any time if they find you to be a threat to national security, public safety, or if you violate any other terms.
It’s crucial to stay on top of your parole period and renew if necessary, so you don’t lose your legal status.
What If Your Parole in Place Application Is Denied?
Getting denied for Parole in Place doesn’t automatically mean you’ll be deported. If you receive a denial, it’s a good idea to talk to an immigration attorney to explore other options. In most cases, a denial is not a reason for U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) to start removal proceedings unless the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) determines you’re a threat to national security, public safety, or border security.
Filing for a Green Card: Form I-130 and Form I-485
If you want to move from Parole in Place to becoming a lawful permanent resident (green card holder), you’ll need to file Form I-130 and Form I-485. The I-130 establishes your relationship to your U.S. citizen spouse or stepparent, and the I-485 is your application to adjust your status to permanent residence.
Once USCIS approves your forms, you’ll be invited to an interview. If you’re applying based on marriage to a U.S. citizen, you’ll attend the interview as a couple to demonstrate that your marriage is genuine.
Biometrics and Background Checks
The biometrics process is also part of applying for a green card. USCIS will use your fingerprints to check for any criminal history and run background checks. They may reuse the biometrics from your Parole in Place application, but if not, you’ll be asked to provide them again.
Termination of Parole
Parole can end in a few ways. If your parole period expires, or if you leave the U.S., your parole will automatically terminate. DHS can also decide to end your parole at any time if they determine you are a threat to public safety, national security, or if they believe you’ve violated the terms of your parole.
Travel Restrictions
One last reminder: do not travel outside the U.S. unless you’ve spoken to an immigration attorney. Even with advance parole, reentry into the U.S. is not guaranteed. Your parole could be terminated if you leave, and you might not be able to come back.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take for a Parole in Place application to be processed?
Processing times can vary, but generally, you should expect several months for your application to be reviewed and a decision made. Check your USCIS online account for updates on your case status.
Can I work right away after getting Parole in Place approval?
No, you must apply for a work permit using Form I-765. Once that’s approved, you’ll be allowed to work legally.
Is Parole in Place the same as a green card?
No, Parole in Place is not a green card. It’s temporary protection that allows you to stay in the U.S. legally. You will need to adjust your status to a green card through a separate application process.
Will I be placed in removal proceedings if my Parole in Place application is denied?
Typically, a denial does not result in removal proceedings unless DHS believes you pose a threat to national security or public safety.
How do I apply for a green card after receiving Parole in Place?
After receiving Parole in Place, your U.S. citizen spouse or stepparent will file Form I-130, and you’ll file Form I-485 to adjust your status to a green card holder.
Conclusion: Stay Focused and Keep Moving Forward
Getting Parole in Place is a big step forward for your immigration status, but it’s just the beginning.
Make sure you follow through your status process by applying for a work permit, Social Security Number, and eventually, a green card.
Stay on top of your deadlines, and don’t hesitate to reach out to an immigration attorney if you have any questions about the process and anything about immigration law.
You’ve got this—your future is full of possibilities!