I-131F Parole in Place: Keeping Families Together

At Modern Law Group, PC, we stay up-to-date with the latest changes in immigration law to provide you with the best possible advice. Today, we focus on a highly relevant topic: the "Keeping Families Together" program and Form I-131F for Parole in Place.

What is the "Keeping Families Together" Program?

On August 19, 2024, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) implemented "Keeping Families Together," a process allowing certain noncitizen spouses and stepchildren of U.S. citizens to request "parole in place" under existing statutory authority.

Key Features:

• Allows certain immigrants to temporarily remain in the U.S.
• Offers a pathway to adjust immigration status in certain circumstances
• An estimated 500,000 noncitizen spouses and 50,000 noncitizen stepchildren may be eligible

Eligibility Requirements

For Noncitizen Spouses:

• Be present in the U.S. without admission or parole
• Have been continuously physically present since at least June 17, 2014
• Have a legally valid marriage to a U.S. citizen on or before June 17, 2024
• Have no disqualifying criminal history
• Submit to background checks and national security vetting

For Noncitizen Stepchildren:

• Have been under 21 and unmarried on June 17, 2024
• Be present in the U.S. without admission or parole
• Have been continuously physically present since at least June 17, 2024
• Have a noncitizen parent who married a U.S. citizen on or before June 17, 2024, and before the stepchild's 18th birthday

Application Process

Starting August 19, 2024, to request parole in place you must:

• Submit Form I-131F online
• Pay the applicable filing fee (no fee waiver available)
• Provide required documentation
• Submit biometrics

Potential Benefits

If granted parole in place:

• Temporary protection from deportation
• Eligibility to apply for an Employment Authorization Document (EAD)
• Possibility to apply for adjustment of status to lawful permanent resident without leaving the U.S.

Important Considerations

• Parole is generally granted for a period of up to 3 years
• USCIS uses rigorous procedures to detect potential fraud
• A denied application generally won't result in deportation action

Why You Need an Immigration Attorney

An experienced immigration attorney can accurately assess your eligibility, help you gather documentation, represent you before USCIS, and advise you on the implications of traveling outside the U.S.

Contact Modern Law Group today at 888-902-9285. Our expert attorneys are ready to evaluate your case and guide you through the process.