Parole in Place is a program that would ease the pathway to legal status for about half a million undocumented spouses and stepchildren of U.S. citizens. However, due to a federal judge's order the program will continue to be on pause for the time being.
While the program is paused, USCIS has continued accepting applications and
scheduling biometric appointments but is not granting parole-in-place requests. Keeping Families Together is temporary immigration relief that allows undocumented spouses and stepchildren of U.S. citizens to apply for a status known as “parole in place.”
The parole-in-place status would allow someone to work and apply for a green card while remaining in the U.S. with their family. Typically, undocumented immigrants who are married to U.S. citizens are required to leave the country in the process of legalizing their status, which can take about five years.
During the five year process, they wait in limbo for an incredible amount of time, which could be eliminated through this (parole-in-place) program. If granted, the parole-in-place status is generally valid for three years and is not renewable. If someone cannot adjust their status after these three years, they will lose their legal permission to stay in the U.S.
What are the main requirements to qualify for parole in place?
If you are the spouse of a U.S. citizen, you must have been married on or before June 17, 2024, and lived in the U.S. continuously since at least June 17, 2014.
If you are the stepchild of a U.S. citizen, you must have a non-citizen parent who married a U.S. citizen on or before June 17, 2024, and before your 18th birthday. You must have been continuously present in the U.S. since at least June 17, 2024.
Applicants must also have entered the country without presenting themselves to an immigration official and have no “disqualifying criminal history,” among other requirements you can learn about on the USCIS website.
What would disqualify me from parole in place?
People who have advance parole. Those with advance parole can already apply to adjust their immigration status without leaving the U.S.
People who entered with a visa and stayed after the visa expired.
People who have previously been deported and re-entered without presenting themselves to an immigration official.
People with any felony or certain misdemeanor convictions, such as domestic violence or possession of more than 30 grams of marijuana. For more examples of disqualifying criminal records, check the USCIS website.
Possible Outcomes from the Pending Court Case:
- Best Case: The program resumes after September 23, and approvals continue as before.
- Extend the Pause: The suspension could be extended further, delaying decisions.
- Program Termination: There’s a possibility the program may be permanently stopped. If this happens, your best chance of approval is to file as soon as possible.
- Worst Case: The program could completely end, and USCIS could deny all pending applications without refunds.
What we recommend you do if you qualify:
Act Quickly: We strongly encourage you to submit your application now to be at the front of the line should the program adjudication resume.
- Stay Prepared: Gather all necessary documents and information to ensure your application is ready for submission as soon as possible.
- Appointments Continue: USCIS will continue scheduling biometric appointments. Please ensure you attend your scheduled appointment or reschedule if necessary.
- Consult Us: If you have any questions or need assistance with your application, please don't hesitate to contact us if you want our help in filing your case. We’re here to help you navigate this process and secure your future.
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