Parole in Place (PiP) for Undocumented Spouses and Children of U.S. Citizens
On June 18, 2024, the United States government announced that undocumented spouses and children of U.S. citizens who have lived in the country for at least 10 years will be eligible to apply for an immigration benefit called Parole in Place (PIP).
What is Parole in Place (“PIP)?
Parole in Place (“PIP”) allows someone who has already entered the United States without lawful authorization to remain in the country temporarily, if they can show that there are urgent humanitarian reasons or a significant public benefit for them to be in the U.S. PIP also allows the person to apply for a work permit, a green card, and eventually, U.S. citizenship.
Who is eligible for PIP under this executive action?
Under this executive action, you can apply for PIP if you:
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- Entered the United States without lawful authorization;
- Are currently undocumented;
- Are married to a U.S. citizen (or, you are under 21 years old and have a parent who is married to a U.S. citizen);
- Have been continuously present in the United States for at least 10 years before June 17, 2024; and
- Do not pose a threat to public safety or national security.
Why is PIP beneficial?
Individuals who are granted PIP will be:
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- Protected from deportation for three years;
- Eligible for a work permit for up to three years; and
- Able to apply for a green card (lawful permanent residence) within the three-year period without first leaving the United States.
When can you apply for PIP?
USCIS began accepting applications from eligible individuals on Aug. 19, 2024, but due to a lawsuit challenging the legality of the Parole in Place program, USCIS has been temporarily ordered not to approve new applications. However, USCIS can continue to accept and review new PIP applications. For more information as news and updates are received, please check this website frequently or schedule a consultation to meet with an immigration attorney or accredited representative at SOAR Immigration Legal Services in Portland or Hillsboro.
UPDATE: District Court Judge J. Campbell Barker issued an order extending the administrative stay preventing USCIS from approving any Keeping Families Together parole-in-place applications for an additional 14 days (through Sept. 23). The initial stay was set to expire on Sept. 9, 2024. The court also ordered an accelerated hearing schedule (Sept. 18). A hearing on motions of both parties is scheduled in Tyler, Texas on Sept.18.
How can you get more information and assistance with your PIP application?
SOAR Immigration Legal Services is presently scheduling consultations for those who want to evaluate the benefits and risks of applying for Parole in Place now. For those who decide to file an application, depending on our capacity, we are ready to offer legal assistance with completing an application.