The “Keeping Families Together” Parole-in-Place (PIP) program is designed to help eligible noncitizen spouses and stepchildren of U.S. citizens stay in the U.S. and eventually apply for lawful permanent residence. This guide provides a step-by-step approach to applying for parole under this program. It is highly recommended that applicants seek the assistance of experienced immigration attorneys, who can not only assist with the parole application but also prepare for the future I-485 adjustment of status application.

Step 1: Determine Eligibility

Before filing for parole, ensure that you meet the eligibility criteria:

Noncitizen Spouses:

• Present in the U.S. without admission or parole.
• Continuously present in the U.S. since at least June 17, 2014.
• Legally married to a U.S. citizen on or before June 17, 2024.
• No disqualifying criminal history and not deemed a threat to public safety, national security, or border security.

Noncitizen Stepchildren:

• Under 21 and unmarried on June 17, 2024.
• Present in the U.S. without admission or parole.
• Continuously present in the U.S. since at least June 17, 2024.
• Parent's marriage to a U.S. citizen occurred on or before June 17, 2024, and before the stepchild's 18th birthday.
• No disqualifying criminal history and not deemed a threat to public safety, national security, or border security.

Step 2: Create a myUSCIS Account:

To apply online, you need to create an account on myUSCIS. This account will allow you to file Form I-131F, track your application, and receive important updates about your case.

• Go to the myUSCIS website.
• Click on “Create an Account.”
• Follow the prompts to complete your registration.

Step 3: Complete Form I-131F:

Once you have created your myUSCIS account, you can begin filling out Form I-131F, the Application for Parole in Place for Certain Noncitizen Spouses and Stepchildren of U.S. Citizens.

• Form I-131F must be completed accurately. If filing by mail, ensure that the form is typed or written in black ink and all required fields are completed.
• Ensure that you use the current version of the form. You can download it directly from the USCIS forms page.

Tips for Filing:

• Double-check that you have filled out all the required sections of the form.
• If handwriting, use black ink and make sure your handwriting is clear.
• Do not use correction fluid, highlighters, or tape on the form.
• Make sure to sign the form; unsigned forms will be rejected.

Step 4: Pay the Filing Fee:

The filing fee for Form I-131F is $580. USCIS does not accept fee waivers for this form.

• Use the USCIS Fee Calculator to confirm the correct fee amount.
• If filing multiple forms, consider submitting separate payments for each form. If you submit one payment and one form is rejected, all forms in that submission will be rejected.

You can pay the fee online through your myUSCIS account when submitting the form electronically. For mail submissions, follow the payment instructions in the form's instructions.

Step 5: Gather Supporting Documents:

To support your parole application, gather the necessary documentation, which may include:

• Proof of continuous physical presence in the U.S. since the required date.
• Proof of your relationship to the U.S. citizen (e.g., marriage certificate for spouses or birth certificate for stepchildren).
• Copies of identification documents, such as passports or national identification cards.
• Evidence showing the legality of the marriage (for spouses) and that the marriage occurred before the stepchild's 18th birthday (for stepchildren).
• Any documentation supporting your eligibility for parole.

Make sure to submit clear, legible copies of all documents. USCIS will review all submitted documents for authenticity and may reject applications if documents appear fraudulent.

Step 6: Submit Biometrics and Undergo Background Checks:

As part of the application process, you will need to submit biometrics (fingerprints, photos, etc.) and undergo background checks. USCIS will notify you of when and where to go for your biometrics appointment.

Ensure that you attend your biometrics appointment as scheduled. Failure to do so may delay or impact your application.

Step 7: Track Your Application:

After submitting your application, track its progress through your myUSCIS account. USCIS will update your account with important notices and requests for additional information, if needed.

Step 8: Prepare for Adjustment of Status:

If your parole is granted, you may be eligible to apply for lawful permanent residence (a green card) through an adjustment of status process. This is where the assistance of an experienced immigration attorney becomes invaluable. They can help you navigate the complexities of the adjustment process, ensuring all forms and documentation are properly prepared.

Additional Filing Tips from USCIS

• Mailing: If you are filing by mail, ensure all pages of the form are complete and included. Make sure the edition date and page numbers are visible.
• Consistency: If filing multiple forms, ensure your name, date of birth, and A-Number (if applicable) are the same on each form.
• Form Errors: If you make an error on the form, start over with a clean copy. Do not use correction fluid or tape.

For more detailed tips from USCIS on filing forms by mail, visit the USCIS Filing Guidance Page.

Final Thoughts:

While the “Keeping Families Together” Parole-in-Place program offers a critical opportunity for noncitizen spouses and stepchildren of U.S. citizens, navigating the process can be challenging. We strongly encourage all applicants to seek assistance from an experienced immigration attorney who can guide you through both the parole application and the subsequent adjustment of status process. This can help ensure your application is successful and that you are on a path to legal residency in the U.S.

For any questions or legal advice, contact our office at (212) 571-6002 or send an email to [email protected] to get personalized support.