The Potential Benefits It Offers to Military Families
You came into the United States without going through the proper channels. You live in constant fear that you’ll face deportation or removal proceedings. If you are the spouse, widow, child or parent of certain members of the United States armed forces, though, you may be able to obtain temporary lawful immigration status under a program known as “Parole in Place,” or PIP.
What Is Parole in Place?
Parole in place is a federal immigration status that may be given to any foreign national who entered the United States without legal authorization. It is generally granted on a case-by-case basis, and typically requires that the applicant either show significant public benefit or humanitarian reasons for granting the status. If granted, it remains in effect for one year. An applicant may re-apply for subsequent one-year periods.
Who May Be Granted Parole in Place?
To qualify for parole in place, you must be the spouse, widow, child or parent of one of the following:
- A person currently serving on active duty in any branch of the U.S. military
- A member of the Selected Reserve of the Ready Reserve of the U.S. armed forces
- A veteran of any branch of the U.S. military or of the Selected Reserve of the Ready Reserve. The veteran may be living or dead, but must have received a discharge that was other than dishonorable.
What Are the Benefits of Parole in Place Status?
If your application for parole in place is granted, your presence in the United States for the period of the PIP will be considered lawful. That means that you can apply for a Green Card, a work permit or any other immigration benefit available to individuals with lawful entry.
How Do I Apply for Parole in Place Status?
The best way to apply for parole in place is to work directly with an experienced immigration attorney. Your lawyer will know exactly what needs to be submitted and can be your advocate throughout the process.
At Bailey & Galyen, we have successfully helped foreign nationals benefit from PIP status. Immigration attorney Claudia Cubias recently worked with a couple whose son joined the U.S. military, allowing them to apply for PIP status. Their application was approved, allowing them to apply for a Green Card, which was also approved.
Contact the Experienced Immigration Attorneys at Bailey & Galyen
At the law offices of Bailey & Galyen, we have aggressively protected the rights of individuals across the state of Texas for over 40 years, including individuals seeking to emigrate to the United States or facing other immigration or naturalization issues. We have a thorough knowledge of the U.S. immigration and citizenship laws, and have helped countless people get positive results in an immigration matter. We will be your advocate throughout the process, from the initial application through any appeals that may need to be filed. Contact us by e-mail or 844-402-2992 call our offices at one of the convenient locations listed below. Our phones are answered 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
