The U.S. Government recognizes the important sacrifices made by U.S. armed force members, veterans, enlistees, and their families. To support these individuals, the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) provides discretionary options, on a case-by-case basis, to family members of U.S. service members, veterans, and enlistees. One of these options is called “Parole in Place.”
What is Parole in Place?
Parole in place allows a foreign citizen who came into the United States without authorization by an immigration officer (like crossing the border without going through a port of entry) to stay for a certain period of time inside of the U.S.
Parole is considered a lawful immigration status for purposes of certain immigration benefits, such as a Permanent Residence or “green card” application. However, please note that Parole in Place does not excuse any periods of unlawful (or illegal) presence outside of that parole period.
Who qualifies for Military Parole in Place?
Parole in place is only for individuals who entered the United States without admission (“illegally”) and are now seeking admission. If you were admitted to the U.S. lawfully (for example, you came to the U.S. through an airport or through inspection at a port of entry at the border) and you are present in the U.S. beyond the period you were authorized to stay, you are not eligible for parole in place because you were already inspected and admitted.
If you entered the U.S. without admission, you may qualify for Military Parole in Place in one-year increments if you are the spouse, widow(er), parent, son, or daughter of:
An active-duty member of the U.S. Armed Forces;
An individual in the Selected Reserve of the Ready Reserve; or
A military veteran (whether living or deceased, as long as he or she was not dishonorably discharged) who served in active duty or in the Selected Reserve of the Ready Reserve.
What are the benefits of obtaining Military Parole in Place?
You may apply for a work permit for the specified period of parole; and
You may be able to apply for an immigration benefit that requires a lawful entry, including a green card application, if you are eligible.
Please remember that parole by itself does not lead to any immigration status or other immigration benefit. You should consult with an experienced immigration attorney before you file an application for permanent residence or a green card to determine if you qualify. You may also consult whether you may be able to renew your parole in place in case you do not qualify for a green card yet.
To schedule a consultation with one of our attorneys and discuss your questions regarding military parole in place and if you qualify for any other immigration benefit through your relatives, please click HERE.