Are you a family member of a U.S. military personnel, either active or a veteran? Do you find yourself in the challenging position of being in the U.S. unlawfully? If so, SG Immigration Solutions is here to inform you about the Parole in Place (PIP) program, a unique opportunity that can change the course of your immigration journey without the need to leave the country.
Understanding Parole in Place
Parole in Place (PIP) is a crucial program tailored specifically for certain undocumented family members of U.S. military personnel. It provides an extraordinary immigration benefit that is not available to family members of civilians. PIP allows those non-citizen family members who are unlawfully present in the U.S. to apply for a green card without the burden of leaving the country.
Addressing the Problem
Under current immigration law, individuals who entered the United States unlawfully typically cannot apply for permanent residence (a green card) from within the U.S., a process known as adjustment of status. This means that undocumented family members cannot obtain a green card unless they return to their home country for consular processing.
However, this process can often trigger a three- to ten-year bar as a penalty for previous unlawful presence, forcing families to endure separation and making immigration significantly more difficult. For members of the U.S. armed forces, this can cause stress and anxiety that negatively impacts military readiness.
Parole in Place offers a unique solution, granting noncitizen family members of military personnel a path to a green card that others do not have access to.
Who Is Eligible for Military Parole in Place?
To be eligible for a military Parole in Place, you must be a spouse, parent, or unmarried child under 21 of the following:
• An active duty member of the U.S. Armed Forces
• A Selected Reserves member
• An individual who has previously served in the Selected Reserve of the Ready Reserve or the U.S. Armed Forces and was honorably discharged
Even in cases where military service members are deceased, their family members may still be eligible for military PIP.
The Application Process
If you meet the eligibility criteria and Parole in Place is granted, you must then apply to adjust your legal immigration status, which means applying for Lawful Permanent Residence. Applying directly for status adjustment without PIP may result in rejection.
Potential PIP Denials
It is crucial to note that individuals with a criminal conviction on their record will not be eligible for PIP. Negative immigration history will also be considered. If there are any negative aspects in your personal history that could lead immigration officials to consider your removal from the U.S., it is advisable to seek assistance from an experienced immigration lawyer.
Recent Changes
The PIP policy, originally instituted during the Obama Administration, faced challenges during the Trump Administration. However, in 2020, Congress ordered that applications must be considered on a case-by-case basis, with an emphasis on minimizing disruption to military family unity and taking individual circumstances into account.
Applying for Military Parole in Place
To initiate the process, certain documents must be prepared and submitted to the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). These documents include:
• Form I-131 (Application for Travel Document)
• Evidence of the family relationship with the military member (e.g., birth or marriage certificate)
• A photocopy of the military identification card
• Additional evidence such as commendations, awards, or letters from community leaders showcasing your involvement in volunteer activities may be submitted. Following the review of your application, USCIS may schedule a short interview at the local USCIS office.
At SG Immigration Solutions, we are dedicated to helping you navigate the complex process of Parole in Place for military families. Our experienced team is here to assist you every step of the way, ensuring that you and your family can secure the immigration benefits you deserve while minimizing the stress and challenges you may face. Don’t hesitate to reach out to us today for expert guidance on your path to PIP and a brighter future in the United States.
Stay tuned for more insightful information on immigration matters from SG Immigration Solutions! If you need information and a FREE consultation about your case, call us now 929 444 9189
Visit our website to learn more about our services and how we can assist you: SG Immigration Solutions
Legal Disclaimer: SG immigration Solutions is a document preparer service and is not a law firm. We are not licensed to practice law, provide legal advice, or represent you in any legal matter. The documents we prepare are based on the information you provide, and they are not a substitute for legal advice from a qualified attorney.
