Parole in place: An Opportunity for Legal Status for Over 500,000 Immigrants

Introduction of the Initiative

Starting on August 19, 2024, the application process for the program announced by the Joe Biden administration will open, which offers the possibility of settling status for some spouses of American citizens without having to leave the country. In the program, which was announced in July, each case will be evaluated individually. Eligibility criteria include demonstrating continuous residency for at least 10 years prior to June 17, 2024, being present in the U.S. without admission or temporary presence permit, not posing a security threat, and being in a valid marriage to a US citizen before June 17, 2024.

Addressing Challenges

The new parole program tackles these challenges by allowing eligible individuals to apply for adjustment of status within the U.S., thus eliminating the requirement to depart the country for visa interviews, which could otherwise trigger extended reentry bans. Importantly, even if the program is suspended or reversed in the future, individuals granted parole will retain a pathway to pursue lawful permanent resident status.

Eligibility Criteria

To qualify for parole-in-place, applicants must meet specific criteria, including permanent residence in the U.S. since June 17, 2014, and being legally married to a U.S. citizen before June 17, 2024, among other conditions. It is anticipated that the program will benefit approximately 500,000 spouses and 50,000 children of U.S. citizens by providing them with legal status and the ability to work while navigating further immigration processes.

Impact on Serving Immigrants

For Serving Immigrants, the parole-in-place initiative represents a significant opportunity for eligible individuals to secure permanent residency and addresses enduring challenges within the U.S. immigration framework.