Don’t Miss Out: Applications Now Open for the Family Unity Parole-in-Place Program

Posted on 08/19/24

If you or a loved one are an undocumented immigrant married to a U.S. citizen or are a stepchild of a U.S. citizen, the new Family Unity Parole-in-Place policy could be an option for you. This program is designed to keep families together while providing a path to lawful permanent residence. Applications are now open, and it’s essential to start the process as soon as possible to secure your family’s future.

This blog will guide you through the filing process for Form I-131F, outline the eligibility requirements, and explain the evidence you’ll need to gather to build a compelling application. However, completing this process alone can be overwhelming and risky. This policy could be your gateway to securing your place in the United States with your family, free from the fear of deportation. Attorney James A. Welcome is here to support you and your family every step of the way. Don’t delay applying, call (203) 753-7300 today to set up a confidential immigration consultation and begin your application for Parole-in-Place. 

What is Form I-131F?

Form I-131F, also known as the Application for Parole-in-Place for Certain Noncitizen Spouses and Stepchildren of U.S. Citizens, is an online-only application process that opened on August 19th, 2024. This application is part of the Biden administration’s efforts to provide legal protections to families with undocumented members who have established familial ties to the United States. Applicants will need to utilize the online application platform to submit Form I-131F and are required to pay a $580 application fee (no fee waivers available). Each submission will undergo a thorough review by USCIS, making it essential to provide adequate evidence.

For additional information regarding the application process, USCIS has released a Filing Guide for Form I-131F. 

This guide provides detailed eligibility requirements, the necessary documentation, and what applicants can expect during the application process for Parole-in-Place. It also includes step-by-step instructions on how to fill out the form accurately and tips for avoiding common mistakes that could delay or affect the outcome of an application. If you need assistance with the application process and to avoid mistakes or delays, contact Attorney Welcome at (203) 753-7300.

Eligibility Requirements for I-131F Parole-in-Place

Understanding the eligibility criteria for applying for Parole-in-Place as a noncitizen spouse or stepchild of a U.S. citizen can be overwhelming. Here’s a breakdown of the requirements in simple terms:

  • Presence in the U.S.: You must be currently living in the U.S. without having been formally admitted or paroled.
  • Continuous Residence:
    • If you are the spouse of a U.S. citizen, you need to have been living in the U.S. continuously since June 17, 2014.
    • If you are the stepchild of a U.S. citizen, you need to have been living in the U.S. continuously since June 17, 2024.
  • Valid Marital Relationship:
    • As a spouse applying for parole, you must have been in a legal marriage to a U.S. citizen as of June 17, 2024.
    • As a stepchild, your noncitizen parent must have been married to a U.S. citizen before June 17, 2024, and before your 18th birthday.
  • Criminal Record: You must have no disqualifying criminal history and must not pose a threat to national security or public safety.
  • Discretionary Approval: Applicants must provide a compelling explanation for why they deserve discretionary approval for Parole-in-Place. This includes detailing their community ties, family relationships, and contributions to society, which is very important, especially for those who have lived in the U.S. without authorization. This is where an experienced immigration attorney can be invaluable in presenting a strong case to USCIS. 

Understanding these criteria is important for preparing your application. We encourage you to reach out to our bilingual immigration team at (203) 753-7300 to get your application started. 

Evidence Needed For Your Parole-in-Place Application

To prove your relationship for the Parole-in-Place application, you need to submit documents showing you are the spouse or stepchild of a U.S. citizen. Here are some examples of the types of documents you might include as evidence:

  • Marriage Certificate: This confirms your relationship with a U.S. citizen.
  • Divorce or Annulment Documents: If applicable, these documents show that previous marriages of you or your spouse/stepparent have legally ended.
  • Birth Certificate: If you’re applying as the stepchild, your birth certificate should list your noncitizen parent’s name.
  • Death Certificate: If your U.S. citizen spouse or stepparent, or your noncitizen parent has passed away, include their death certificate.

To prove your physical presence in the United States, you may provide the following evidence:

  • Bank Statements
  • Utility Bills
  • Tax Returns
  • Lease Agreements or Mortgage Statements
  • Employment Records
  • School Records
  • Medical and Hospital Records
  • Records from Religious Entities

Benefits of Parole-in-Place

  • Employment Opportunities: Once granted parole, individuals can apply for an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) by submitting Form I-765. This enables them to work legally in the United States, supporting themselves and their families.
  • Legal Status in the United States: Parole-in-Place provides a temporary legal status, allowing individuals to remain in the U.S. for a designated period without the fear of deportation. 
  • Pathway to Permanent Residency: Parole-in-Place offers a valuable pathway for adjusting status and obtaining a green card, thereby achieving lawful permanent residency in the United States.
  • Connection with Family: Parole-in-Place strengthens family unity by enabling individuals to maintain a stable and protected status in the United States. This allows them to work freely and provide for their loved ones.

Beware of these Scams When Applying for the Family Unity Parole-in-Place Program

As the Family Unity Parole-in-Place Program opens its application process, it presents a valuable opportunity for undocumented spouses and stepchildren of U.S. citizens to stay together while pursuing lawful permanent residency. However, with new policies and programs like this, there’s also an increased risk of falling victim to immigration scams that could harm you both financially and personally.

It’s important to be aware of common scams that target immigrants. Here are a few scams to watch out for:

  • Notario Fraud: In some cultures, a “notario” is seen as a legal professional who can provide assistance with legal matters. However, in the United States, a notario is not a licensed attorney and does not have the legal authority to represent you in immigration matters. Scammers often exploit this misunderstanding by posing as notarios and offering unauthorized immigration services, which can lead to your application being mishandled or rejected.
  • Fake Attorneys or Legal Professionals: Be cautious of individuals or websites offering discount legal services for immigration matters. These fraudsters may pose as legitimate attorneys but lack the proper licensing or experience to handle your case effectively. Working with unlicensed or inexperienced parties can result in your application being denied or, worse, lead to serious legal consequences. Always ensure that you are working with a licensed and experienced immigration attorney to safeguard your interests.
  • Phony Government Agencies: Beware of scammers posing as USCIS or other government officials, claiming issues with your application and demanding payment or personal information. Legitimate agencies never request payments over the phone or threaten your immigration status.

Start Your Parole-in-Place Application Today

At the Law Offices of James A. Welcome, we want you to know that our experienced legal team is here to support you as you consider applying for the Family Unity Parole-in-Place policy. This process can seem confusing, and you may be uncertain about your eligibility based on the program’s requirements. These concerns should be entrusted to a skilled Connecticut immigration attorney who can assist you with your Parole-in-Place application under Form I-131F.

As an undocumented immigrant, it’s critical to take the necessary steps to protect yourself and your loved ones. Our focus as an immigration law firm is to prioritize your interests from the start. We offer bilingual immigration support and are committed to helping you through this complex process. Call Attorney James A. Welcome today at (203) 753-7300 to get your Parole-in-Place application started. We’re here to deliver results you can trust.