Immigrants make important contributions to the United States military. According to data from the Migration Policy Institute (MPI), nearly 2.5 million veterans are themselves immigrants or are the children of immigrants.
Parole in Place (PIP) is an immigration option that allows undocumented family members of U.S. military members to get legal protection. Here, our Los Angeles immigration law team explains what you need to know about Parole in Place in 2020.
Parole in Place (PIP): Understanding the Basics
As the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) explains, immigrants in our military have done an enormous amount to protect and serve our country. Specialized immigration options, including Parole in Place, may be used to provide immigration-relief to a service member, veteran, or their families.
Through Parole in Place, an undocumented family member of a service member or military veteran may be eligible to apply for and obtain a green card. To be clear, PIP is fully discretionary—meaning it is not a guaranteed right under federal law. Parole in Place applications will always be assessed on a case-by-case basis.
Who Can Apply for Parole in Place Protections?
As Parole in Place is a restricted option, it is only available to a limited number of people. You may be to get an immigration benefit through PIP if you are the spouse, parent, or child of any of the following:
- An active duty member of the American military;
- A member of the military reserves; or
- A veteran who previously served in the U.S. armed forces.
How to Request Parole in Place in California
If you or your family member meets the requirements for Parole in Place and you are considering submitting an application, it is strongly recommended that you consult with an experienced Los Angeles immigration attorney. PIP is a complicated process. As the benefit is discretionary, it is crucial that qualified individuals prepare a strong, well-supported application package. Among other things, you will need:
- A completed Form 1-131;
- Proof of a qualifying relationship;
- Proof of military status; and
- Demonstration of favorable discretionary factors.
Proving that you are an immediate family member of a U.S. service member is not necessarily sufficient to get Parole in Place. The USCIS will grant this benefit for urgent humanitarian reasons or for a significant public benefit. A top immigration attorney can help you and your family put together a strong case for Parole in Place. Beyond that, we will also help you consider every other immigration option, including deferred action.
Call Our Los Angeles, CA Immigration Lawyer for Immediate Help
At Goldstein Immigration Lawyers, our mission is to help clients find the best solution for their specific needs. With experience handling the complete range of immigration cases, our Los Angeles immigration attorney will protect your rights. If you have any questions about Parole in Place or other immigration options, we are here to help. Call us now for a completely confidential initial consultation.
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