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Immigration Requirements, Eligibility, and Application Process
If you are a U.S. service member or veteran and you or a loved one is undocumented, you may be eligible to apply for military parole in place. This program transforms the lives of military families and provides peace of mind to those who have served our country.
Laura Báez Torres Immigration Law is experienced in all aspects of family immigration, including military parole in place. This guide includes everything you need to know about parole in place, including the application process, eligibility requirements, and the benefits it provides.
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What is Military Parole in Place (PIP)?
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) established the military parole in place program to allow undocumented family members of service members, veterans, and reservists to remain in the United States legally.
Parole in place is granted on a case-by-case basis for urgent humanitarian reasons or significant public benefit. It provides temporary legal status, work authorization, and protection from deportation. The program also allows these family members to adjust their immigration status without having to leave the country.
Parole in Place Immigration Requirements
Family members of military service members who are eligible for parole in place (granted in 1-year increments) include:
- Spouses
- Widows (ers)
- Children
- Parents
Parole in Place Application Process
Step 1: Prepare Documents
- Evidence of your relationship to the service member or veteran
- Marriage certificate
- Documentation of termination of previous marriage
- Child’s birth certificate
- Adoption paperwork
- Current or former service member’s birth certificate with parent’s name
- Proof of enrollment in the Defense Enrollment Eligibility Reporting System (DEERS)
- Proof of the service member’s military status, such as:
- DD Form 214 (Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty) for veterans
- Military ID (front and back)
- Active duty or reserve orders
- Proof of the applicant’s identity, such as a passport or government-issued ID
- Police clearance or records showing no criminal activity
- Detailed personal statement explaining the hardship you and your family would face without military parole in place.
Step 2: File Required Forms
- Form I-131 (Application for Travel Document) with USCIS to request parole.
- Form I-765 (Application for Employment Authorization) to request permission to work in the U.S.
Step 3: Submit Application
Mail the application and documents to the nearest USCIS field office in your area.
Step 4: Wait for Approval
USCIS will send a Form I-797C (Notice of Action) after reviewing the application. The notice includes your receipt number to track your application status.
They will also send out a Request for Evidence (RFE) for you to submit additional documentation, if necessary.
Step 5: Biometrics Appointment
The beneficiary will attend a biometrics appointment for USCIS to collect their fingerprints, photograph, and signature.
Step 6: Decision Notice
You’ll receive a decision notice after USCIS reviews the parole in place application. If approved, the beneficiary will be allowed to legally stay in the U.S. for a specified period (usually one year). There will be additional details and any conditions included in the notice.
Request A Consultation Today To Discuss Your Families Options.
Military Parole in Place Processing Time
Processing times for parole in place can vary significantly based on the workload of the USCIS Field Office handling your application.
You can expect the processing time to last several months. According to the USCIS historic processing times page, it could take up to 4 months.
Parole in Place FAQ
1. Can I apply for parole in place if I am not a military family member?
No, parole in place is only for U.S. veterans or military family members, including spouses, widows/widowers, children, and parents.
2. Can parole in place lead to permanent residency (green card)?
Parole in place does not directly lead to permanent residency. However, it can provide a pathway for specific individuals to adjust their status and pursue permanent residency. Consult an immigration attorney to help you learn about other pathways to obtain a green card.
3. Can I travel outside the U.S. with parole in place?
Traveling outside the United States with parole in place is generally not recommended. Individuals granted parole in place who have entered the country without inspection and are leaving the country may trigger additional immigration consequences.
Request a Consultation with Laura Báez Torres Immigration Law
Laura Báez Torres Immigration Law is dedicated to helping military families and U.S. veterans overcome their immigration challenges.
Whether you need help with military records or creating a detailed personal statement, our team of immigration lawyers can guide you through this complex process.
Schedule a consultation with us and take the first step toward securing your family’s future.
