Parole in Place (PIP) for Military Families

At National Security Law Firm (NSLF), we are honored to support military families navigating the complexities of immigration law. Parole in Place (PIP) is a unique immigration benefit designed to provide undocumented family members of U.S. service members the opportunity to remain in the United States lawfully. PIP helps protect military families from separation and ensures stability for those serving our nation.

What Is Parole in Place?

Parole in Place (PIP) is a discretionary program offered by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) that allows certain undocumented family members of U.S. service members, veterans, and reservists to remain in the United States without fear of deportation. PIP grants temporary legal status, enabling family members to pursue additional immigration benefits, such as adjustment of status to lawful permanent residency.

Key Benefits of PIP:

  • Protection from removal (deportation).
  • Authorization to remain in the U.S. while pursuing immigration relief.
  • Eligibility to apply for a green card through adjustment of status.

How Much Does Parole in Place Cost?

At National Security Law Firm, we are dedicated to providing transparent pricing for our clients. For those seeking parole in place, we offer a flat fee of $1,995, ensuring you know exactly what to expect throughout the process.

To make our services even more accessible, we provide legal financing options, allowing you to spread payments over 3 to 24 months. This flexibility ensures that cost doesn’t stand in the way of achieving security for your family.

Learn more about our financing options here or book a free consultation today. Let us help you take the next step toward peace of mind for you and your loved ones.

Who Is Eligible for Parole in Place?

To qualify for PIP, you must meet the following criteria:

1. Relationship to a Service Member

  • You must be an immediate family member of a:
    • Active-duty service member.
    • Veteran who served honorably.
    • Reservist in the U.S. Armed Forces or National Guard.
  • Eligible family members include:
    • Children (under 21 and unmarried).

2. Unlawful Entry into the U.S.

  • PIP is specifically designed for individuals who entered the United States without inspection (i.e., crossing the border without a visa).

3. Good Moral Character

  • Applicants must demonstrate good moral character and have no disqualifying criminal history or immigration violations.

Military spouses, widow(er)s, parents, sons, and daughters who were admitted to the United States as nonimmigrants and stayed beyond their authorized stay (i.e., overstayed a visa) are not eligible for parole in place, which is only available to individuals present in the United States without admission. However, they may request deferred action, a form of prosecutorial discretion that, if granted, protects them from removal for a specified period of time. If granted, the period of deferred action is for up to two years. Those granted deferred action may apply for employment authorization if they can establish “an economic necessity for employment.”

How Does Parole in Place Work?

PIP provides temporary legal status, allowing you to remain in the U.S. while addressing your immigration status. While PIP itself does not provide a direct path to permanent residency, it may allow you to apply for a green card through adjustment of status.

Application Process for Parole in Place

Applying for PIP involves the following steps:

Step 1: File Form I-131 (Application for Travel Document)

  • Submit Form I-131 to request parole in place. Indicate that you are applying for PIP as a family member of a service member.

Step 2: Gather Supporting Documents

Include the following evidence with your application:

  • Proof of relationship to the service member (e.g., marriage certificate, birth certificate).
  • Evidence of the service member’s military service, such as:
    • Military ID.
    • DD Form 214 (Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty).
    • Proof of reserve or National Guard service.
  • Evidence of your residence in the United States.
  • Proof of good moral character (e.g., affidavits, police clearances).

Step 3: Submit Application to USCIS

  • Mail your completed Form I-131 and supporting documents to the appropriate USCIS office.

Step 4: Await Decision

  • USCIS will review your application and notify you of its decision. If approved, you will receive documentation confirming your parole status.

What Happens After Approval?

If granted PIP, you can:

  • Remain in the U.S. without fear of deportation.
  • Apply for work authorization (Form I-765).
  • Pursue adjustment of status to lawful permanent residency (if otherwise eligible).

Common Challenges and How We Help

1. Incomplete Applications: Missing or incorrect documentation can result in delays or denials.

2. Understanding Eligibility: Determining eligibility for PIP and other immigration benefits can be complex, especially for families with unique circumstances.

3. Navigating USCIS Requirements: Frequent relocations and deployments may make it difficult to coordinate the application process.

At NSLF, we ensure your PIP application is complete, accurate, and compelling, addressing any issues that arise during the process.

Strategies for a Strong PIP Application

  • Thorough Documentation
    • Provide all required documents, including:
      • Proof of family relationship to the service member (e.g., marriage or birth certificates).
      • Evidence of the service member’s military service (e.g., DD Form 214, military ID).
      • Proof of residence in the U.S. (e.g., utility bills, lease agreements).
  • Highlight the Service Member’s Needs
    • Include details about how deportation would impact the service member’s ability to serve, such as emotional or logistical hardship caused by family separation.
  • Show Good Moral Character
    • Submit police clearance records, tax filings, and letters from employers or community leaders to demonstrate compliance with U.S. laws and good moral standing.
  • Seek Professional Guidance
    • Work with an experienced immigration attorney to ensure your application is accurate, complete, and compelling.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Submitting Incomplete or Inaccurate Applications – Missing or incorrect information can result in processing delays or outright denial of your application.
  • Failing to Provide Sufficient Evidence – Weak documentation of your family relationship or the service member’s military status can jeopardize your case.
  • Not Requesting Work Authorization – Many applicants fail to file Form I-765 (Application for Employment Authorization) alongside their PIP application, missing an opportunity for temporary work rights.
  • Ignoring USCIS Deadlines or Requests – Delays in responding to Requests for Evidence (RFEs) or missing appointments can negatively impact your case.

FAQs About Parole in Place

  • What Does Parole in Place Allow Me to Do?  PIP allows you to remain in the U.S. temporarily and lawfully, and it may also pave the way for adjustment of status to a green card if you qualify.
  • Does PIP Provide Work Authorization? No, but you can apply for work authorization separately by filing Form I-765 after receiving PIP approval.
  • How Long Does PIP Last? PIP is typically granted for one year and may be renewed depending on your circumstances.
  • Can I Apply for PIP if I Entered Without Inspection? Yes, PIP is specifically designed for individuals who entered the U.S. without inspection.
  • What Happens If My Application Is Denied? Denial of PIP does not automatically lead to removal but could complicate your ability to remain in the U.S. You may need to explore other immigration relief options.

Expediting a PIP Application

  • Highlight Military Service Needs – Include deployment orders or proof of active-duty obligations that demonstrate the urgency of your request.
  • Show Immediate Hardship – Provide evidence of significant hardship to the service member, such as the impact of family separation on mental health or childcare responsibilities.
  • Request Expedited Review – Submit a cover letter requesting expedited processing, supported by detailed documentation of your circumstances.

Good Case vs. Bad Case Examples

Good Case Example

  • Scenario: A spouse of an active-duty service member who entered the U.S. without inspection, has no criminal record, and provides complete documentation of their relationship and the service member’s active-duty obligations.
  • Why It’s Strong: The application demonstrates eligibility, good moral character, and the military family’s need for stability.

Bad Case Example

  • Scenario: An undocumented parent with a criminal record and incomplete evidence of their relationship to the service member or the service member’s military status.
  • Why It’s Weak: A lack of documentation and prior legal violations significantly weaken the case.

How Parole in Place Supports Military Readiness

Parole in Place (PIP) is not just an immigration benefit—it is a critical tool that directly supports military readiness. By providing undocumented family members of service members with temporary legal status, PIP helps alleviate the emotional and logistical challenges that can arise when a loved one faces the threat of deportation.

Key Contributions to Military Readiness:

  • Reduced Stress for Service Members: Service members can focus on their duties without the constant worry about the immigration status of their family members. This peace of mind enhances overall performance and morale.
  • Family Stability: Keeping families together allows service members to maintain a stable home environment, crucial for handling the demands of military life, including frequent relocations and deployments.
  • Enhanced Retention and Deployment Capability: Service members are more likely to remain committed to their roles when assured that their families are protected from immigration-related disruptions.
  • Support for Military Community Goals: By addressing family needs, PIP reinforces the military’s commitment to caring for the well-being of service members and their families.

What Happens After PIP Is Granted?

After receiving PIP, beneficiaries are granted temporary legal status to remain in the U.S. for one year. While PIP itself does not lead to permanent residency, it opens the door to additional opportunities.

Next Steps for PIP Beneficiaries:

  • Work Authorization:
  • Adjustment of Status:
    • If eligible, beneficiaries can apply for a green card through adjustment of status without leaving the U.S.
    • Requirements for adjustment of status include being an immediate relative (e.g., spouse, child, or parent) of a U.S. citizen and meeting other eligibility criteria.
  • Maintain Compliance:
    • Avoid violations of U.S. laws or immigration terms, as they can jeopardize your status or eligibility for renewal.

How to Renew PIP

PIP is typically granted for a one-year period, but it can be renewed to ensure continued protection from removal. The renewal process is similar to the initial application.

Steps to Renew PIP:

  • Begin Early: Start the renewal process at least 90 days before your PIP status expires to avoid gaps in protection.
  • Provide Updated Evidence: Include documentation to confirm your ongoing eligibility:
    • Proof of relationship to the service member.
    • Updated evidence of the service member’s military service.
    • Any new supporting documentation (e.g., proof of continued residence, letters of good character).
  • Await Decision: USCIS will process your renewal application, and once approved, you will receive an updated document confirming your continued PIP status.

Alternatives to PIP

For those who may not qualify for PIP, other immigration relief options are available. Understanding these alternatives ensures that undocumented family members can explore all possible avenues to secure lawful status.

1. Deferred Action:

  • Overview: Provides temporary protection from deportation for individuals at risk of removal.
  • Key Benefits:
    • No lawful status, but protection from removal and eligibility for work authorization.
    • Broader eligibility compared to PIP.

2. Adjustment of Status:

  • Overview: For individuals eligible to apply for a green card from within the U.S., such as immediate relatives of U.S. citizens.
  • Key Benefits:
    • Leads to lawful permanent residency.
    • May require lawful entry or other qualifying conditions.

3. Consular Processing:

  • Overview: For those who cannot adjust status in the U.S., this process allows them to apply for an immigrant visa abroad and reenter the U.S. as a permanent resident.
  • Key Considerations:
    • Requires departing the U.S., which may trigger penalties if unlawful presence is an issue.

4. Military-Specific Programs:

  • Overview: Programs like the Immigrant Military Members and Veterans Initiative (IMMVI) provide additional support for military families, including immigration relief for deported veterans or those at risk of removal.

At NSLF, we help you assess your eligibility for PIP and its alternatives, crafting a personalized strategy to protect you and your family.

Why Choose National Security Law Firm?

  1. Military Immigration Experience: We assist military families with unique immigration challenges, including PIP.
  2. Personalized Support: Our attorneys work closely with you to develop a strategy tailored to your family’s needs.
  3. Compassionate Advocacy: We understand the sacrifices military families make and are committed to helping you achieve legal stability.

Take the Next Step

Parole in Place offers an invaluable opportunity to protect and support your family while addressing immigration concerns. Let National Security Law Firm guide you through the process with confidence and care.

  • Schedule a Free Consultation: Book now

At NSLF, we are proud to stand by the families who stand by our nation’s heroes. It’s Our Turn to Fight for You!