Eligibility Criteria for Parole in Place Under Form I-131F
USCIS has introduced a new process for certain noncitizen spouses and stepchildren of U.S. citizens to request parole in place (PIP) under the “Keeping Families Together” initiative. This new process requires applicants to file Form I-131F, Application for Parole in Place for Certain Noncitizen Spouses USCIS created Form I-131F for noncitizen spouses and stepchildren of U.S. citizens to apply for parole in place (PIP). This form is part of the “Keeping Families Together” initiative. Applicants must file the form online through a MyUSCIS account. Paper applications will be rejected.
Eligibility
To qualify for this new process, applicants must meet several key criteria. They must be the noncitizen spouse or stepchild of a U.S. citizen. The marriage must have been legal on or before June 17, 2024. For stepchildren, the noncitizen parent must have married the U.S. citizen before the stepchild’s 18th birthday and on or before June 17, 2024.
Applicants must be physically in the United States without having been formally admitted or paroled. Spouses must have been continuously present since at least June 17, 2014. Stepchildren must have been continuously present since at least June 17, 2024. Finally, applicants must not have a disqualifying criminal history. They must not pose a threat to public safety or national security.
Filing and Documentation
The Form I-131F application process is entirely online. Each person applying, including children, needs their own MyUSCIS account and must file a separate form. A parent or legal guardian can create an account and file for a minor child. The filing fee is $580. Fee waivers or exemptions are not available for this process.
Applicants must submit various documents to prove their eligibility. These include evidence of their identity and relationship to the U.S. citizen, such as a marriage certificate or birth certificate. They must also provide proof of their continuous physical presence in the U.S. for the required period. This can include documents like tax returns, utility bills, or school records. If applicable, applicants must provide criminal history records.
Processing and Outcomes
After filing, applicants will receive a receipt notice and a biometrics appointment. USCIS has not set a specific processing time for Form I-131F. However, they advise applicants to follow up on their case after 90 days if they have not heard anything.
If approved, parole is typically valid for up to three years. A grant of parole does not grant a Green Card. However, it may allow the individual to apply for adjustment of status to become a lawful permanent resident without having to leave the U.S.
