Parole in Place (PIP) is an immigration process that allows US-based family members of American military personnel to “adjust status” and become US permanent residents without leaving the country (USCIS Policy Memorandum PM-602-0091, November 15, 2013). PIP reflects the belief that the United States government should provide support to family members of military personnel. Unfortunately, PIP policy is set to end soon.
Per the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA), people can adjust their residence status to lawful permanent resident only if they have been either “admitted or paroled” into the United States. Otherwise, individuals must travel outside of the country to a US consulate to adjust status. Someone undergoing consular processing in this case would usually face an inadmissibility bar for unlawful presence once they leave the United States. This means that they cannot re-enter the US for an extended period, usually ten years.
Consular processing is often not the best method to secure lawful permanent residence. PIP is a better option for military family members, so they can adjust status while residing inside the United States and avoid being separated from family. This separation could harm military members’ morale and overall ability to complete their service.
Immediate military family members are eligible for a PIP request if they meet one of the following criteria:
It is important to note that PIP does not resolve immigration problems aside from ineligibility under INA §245(a). Even if PIP is granted, individuals cannot adjust status if they have other inadmissibility issues, including a criminal background, falsely claiming citizenship in the United States, orders for removal, or any prior deportations. Additionally, an immigrant is also not allowed to adjust their status when they require a waiver for some other issue of inadmissibility.
Originally, the PIP program was developed to keep military family members together. According to reports, the Trump administration is aiming to end the PIP program soon (AILA Doc No. 19071030). Once the program ends, PIP will only be available under extremely rare circumstances. There will no longer be an organized system for processing applications or formal assistance to the families of active duty members of the military.
Although PIP is ending, you or your family members may qualify for another form of immigration relief. For help understanding your immigration options and submitting a thorough application, contact a trusted Chugh, LLP attorney.
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