Expansion to Parole in Place Opens a Pathway to Legal Residency for Half a Million Immigrants
Immigration laws in the United States are complex and constantly evolving. One of the most significant recent developments is President Biden’s expansion of the Parole in Place (PIP) Program announced on June 18th. Designed to provide relief to certain undocumented immigrants, this program opens up a pathway to legal residency for many newly eligible individuals. At Gladstein & Messinger, P.C., an immigration law firm based in Queens, New York, we are committed to helping our clients navigate these changes and understand how they may benefit from this new initiative. See below for a discussion of this breaking news development, and contact our office to speak with a knowledgeable and experienced New York immigration lawyer.
What Is the Parole in Place Program?
Parole in Place (PIP) is a discretionary program that allows certain undocumented immigrants who are immediate family members of U.S. military personnel and veterans to obtain a temporary legal status. This status can then pave the way for applying for a Green Card, enabling them to stay in the United States without fear of deportation. The program acknowledges the sacrifices made by military families and aims to keep these families united.
To qualify for PIP, applicants must meet specific criteria:
- Immediate Family Member: The applicant must be an immediate family member of a U.S. citizen who is an active-duty member of the U.S. armed forces, a current member of the Selected Reserve of the Ready Reserve, or a military veteran.
- Unlawful Presence: The applicant must be unlawfully present in the United States. This means they entered the country without inspection or overstayed their visa.
- No Serious Criminal Record: Applicants with serious criminal records are generally ineligible for PIP. Minor infractions may not disqualify an applicant, but each case is assessed individually.
Benefits of Parole in Place
The PIP program offers several benefits to eligible applicants, including:
- Protection from Deportation: PIP provides a temporary legal status that protects individuals from being deported while their application is being processed.
- Work Authorization: Once granted PIP, individuals can apply for work authorization, allowing them to legally work in the United States.
- Pathway to Legal Residency: PIP can be the first step towards obtaining a Green Card, as it allows eligible individuals to adjust their status without having to leave the country.
President Biden Expands Parole in Place to Spouses of U.S. Citizens
In an effort to keep families together, President Biden on June 18th announced an expansion of Parole in Place to spouses of U.S. citizens. In addition to being married to a U.S. citizen, individuals eligible for the expanded Parole in Place must have lived in the United States for at least ten years despite having originally entered without admission or parole. Applicants must satisfy other legal requirements as well, such as not having a serious criminal record. In addition, children of eligible individuals can also receive the protection of PIP.
It is expected that this new program will open up a pathway to residency for as many as 500,000 undocumented immigrants, including 50,000 undocumented children, who are cherished family members of U.S. citizens.
Why Legal Assistance is Crucial
Navigating the PIP application process can be challenging. Errors or omissions can lead to delays or denials. At Gladstein & Messinger, we understand the complexities of immigration law and the importance of keeping families together. Our experienced immigration attorneys can guide you through every step of the process, ensuring that your application is complete and accurate.
While many aspects of the application process are already known, the Department of Homeland Security has yet to publish details about the application process or officially open the application period. By working with a skilled and knowledgeable attorney, you’ll be ready to submit a successful application as soon as this immensely popular program opens its doors.
Contact Gladstein & Messinger for Help With Parole in Place and Other Immigration Legal Needs
President Biden’s Parole in Place Program offers a vital opportunity for undocumented spouses of U.S. citizens to obtain legal residency in the United States. At Gladstein & Messinger, we are dedicated to helping our clients take full advantage of this program. If you believe you may be eligible for PIP or have any questions about the process, call us today at 718-793-7800 or 800-339-0535. Let us help you secure your future and keep your family together.
