What Is Humanitarian Parole in the U.S.: A Guide for Petitioners
Sometimes, urgent situations arise where someone needs to come to the U.S. for a short while. U.S. immigration law recognizes this with Humanitarian Parole (HP). It’s not a magic solution or a way to skip the regular visa process, as it’s meant for genuine emergencies with humanitarian reasons or public benefits.
This guide will explain everything you need to know about Humanitarian Parole. We will discuss who qualifies, how long the Humanitarian Parole application process takes, and what programs exist. We’ll also go over the advantages and disadvantages of Humanitarian Parole, the documents you’ll need to gather for the beneficiary you are helping come to the U.S., the forms you need to fill out, processing times, and more.
Let’s get started!
What Is Humanitarian Parole?
Humanitarian Parole is a discretionary program offered by USCIS that allows certain individuals who wouldn’t usually be eligible to enter the United States to do so for a limited time.
It’s a powerful tool used in urgent situations, but it’s essential to understand its limitations and how it works.
USCIS Has Discretionary Authority in Granting Humanitarian Parole
USCIS has the authority, not the obligation, to grant Humanitarian Parole. This means they carefully consider each case and its own merits.
Humanitarian Parole Only Grants Temporary Entry
Humanitarian Parole is not a path to permanent residence. It allows someone to stay in the U.S. for a specific period tied to the urgent reason for their entry.
HP Refers to Urgent Humanitarian Reasons or Significant Public Benefit
There are two main reasons USCIS might grant Humanitarian Parole:
- Urgent humanitarian reasons: These are situations where someone would face extreme hardship if they couldn’t enter the U.S. temporarily. Examples include receiving critical medical treatment unavailable elsewhere, becoming an organ donor for a loved one, visiting a dying relative, attending a funeral, or escaping danger in their home country.
- Significant public benefit: In rare cases, USCIS might grant parole if someone’s presence in the U.S. meaningfully benefits the public.
Humanitarian Parole Is Not a Replacement for Normal Visa Procedures
Humanitarian Parole is not meant to be a shortcut for obtaining a visa. USCIS will only consider it for genuine emergencies.
HP Has No Guarantee of Approval
While anyone can apply for Humanitarian Parole, USCIS carefully evaluates each case based on the urgency and severity of the situation.
Humanitarian Parole Focuses on Time-Sensitive Circumstances
The decision to grant parole often hinges on the time-sensitive nature of the situation. If the need isn’t immediate or can be addressed elsewhere, USCIS is less likely to approve. While there’s no definition, USCIS considers factors like the situation’s urgency and potential suffering if parole is denied. Some examples include receiving critical medical care, becoming an organ donor, visiting a terminally ill relative, attending a funeral, or escaping targeted harm.
What Is a Significant Public Benefit Parole?
Immigration law offers a particular type of parole, called “Significant Public Benefit Parole,” that goes beyond immediate humanitarian needs. However, similar to Humanitarian Parole, there’s no clear-cut definition provided by law or regulations. This allows USCIS flexibility in applying it to unique situations where a noncitizen’s presence in the U.S. would serve a critical public good.
Here’s what you need to know.
Unlike Humanitarian Parole, which addresses individual emergencies, Significant Public Benefit Parole prioritizes the benefit it brings to the public.
For example, some scenarios where USCIS might consider parole include allowing a key witness to testify in a high-profile legal case, enabling an expert researcher to collaborate on a project vital to public health, or facilitating cultural exchange through the participation of a renowned artist in a major event.
You must understand that Significant Public Benefit Parole is a rare exception with limited scope. USCIS grants it only in compelling cases where the public benefit outweighs the usual immigration requirements.
For this reason, due to the absence of a strict definition, USCIS analyzes each application individually, considering the nature of the public benefit, the noncitizen’s qualifications or expertise, and the overall significance of their involvement.
In essence, Significant Public Benefit Parole is a powerful tool used sparingly. It allows USCIS to bridge the gap between strict immigration rules and situations where a noncitizen’s presence is in the public interest. This can be crucial in advancing critical legal proceedings, fostering scientific or cultural collaboration, or addressing other significant public needs.
Humanitarian Parole vs. Advanced Parole: Understanding the Differences
Humanitarian and Advanced Parole are tools used in U.S. immigration law but serve distinct purposes.
Humanitarian Parole allows noncitizens ineligible for regular entry (due to inadmissibility or lack of a visa) to enter the U.S. for a limited period. HP programs address urgent humanitarian reasons, such as receiving critical medical treatment unavailable elsewhere, becoming an organ donor for a loved one, visiting a dying relative, attending a funeral, or escaping targeted harm in their home country.
On the other hand, Advance Parole allows noncitizens already lawfully present in the U.S. with specific pending applications to travel abroad and return without jeopardizing their status. In other words, Advance Parole provides temporary permission to re-enter for those who wouldn’t usually be able to travel due to ongoing applications.
Here’s a table summarizing the key differences between Humanitarian Parole and Advanced Parole:
| Feature | Humanitarian Parole | Advanced Parole |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | Temporary entry for urgent reasons | Re-entry permission for existing noncitizens |
| Eligibility | Anyone (outside the U.S.) | Specific pending applications/urgent reasons (within the U.S.) |
| Application Process | Filed from outside the U.S. | Filed within the U.S. |
| Focus | Urgent humanitarian needs | Maintaining status after temporary travel |
| Status After Entry | No path to permanent residency | Maintains existing status (if approved for re-entry) |
The Length and Conditions of USCIS Humanitarian Parole
If USCIS approves your application for Humanitarian Parole, they will specify exactly how long you can stay in the United States. This authorized period is directly tied to the purpose of your parole grant.
Here is how USCIS determines the length of your humanitarian parole:
- The duration of your parole will be the minimum needed time to accomplish the reason for your entry. For example, if you received parole to attend a court hearing, the authorized period might only cover the duration of the proceedings.
- In most cases, USCIS grants parole for up to one year. However, there can be exceptions. USCIS may authorize a longer stay, depending on the circumstances behind your parole request.
As you can see, a parolee’s authorized stay in the U.S. on Humanitarian Parole doesn’t last indefinitely. It terminates on the earliest of three possible dates:
- Expiration date set by USCIS: During the approval process, USCIS will specify the exact duration of the parole.
- Departure from the United States: The beneficiary’s parole status automatically ends once they voluntarily leave the U.S., regardless of whether they reach the official expiration date set by USCIS.
- Acquiring lawful immigration status: If the HP beneficiary successfully obtains a lawful immigration status during their parole period, such as permanent residency through an approved green card application, their parole status is no longer valid.
Employment Authorization for Humanitarian Parolees
While parole doesn’t automatically permit beneficiaries to work in the U.S., USCIS may consider their request for employment authorization on a case-by-case basis.
Here’s what you need to know about work permits for parolees:
- The decision to grant them a work permit is entirely at USCIS’s discretion. They will assess whether it aligns with the purpose and duration of the beneficiary’s parole.
- If the parole is approved, they can submit Form I-765: Application for Employment Authorization, after entering the U.S.
USCIS Special Parole Programs for Humanitarian Relief
Homeland Security (DHS) offers special parole programs to address specific humanitarian needs or public benefits. Here’s what you need to know about each program:
Uniting for Ukraine (2022) Humanitarian Parole Program
Launched in response to the ongoing conflict, this program allows U.S. citizens and organizations to sponsor Ukrainian citizens for temporary parole entry into the U.S. This streamlined process aims to expedite family reunification and offer a haven to Ukrainians facing hardship.
Afghan Nationals Humanitarian Parole (2021-Present)
Due to the recent evacuation and resettlement efforts in Afghanistan, USCIS has implemented mechanisms for Afghan citizens to apply for humanitarian parole. It demonstrates the program’s flexibility in adapting to urgent situations.
Central American Minors Refugee and Parole Program (Restarted in 2021)
This program allows eligible children from Guatemala, El Salvador, and Honduras to reunite with family members legally residing in the U.S. Terminated by the Trump administration in 2017. It was restarted by the Biden administration in 2021 to address the ongoing humanitarian crisis in the region.
Family Reunification Parole (FRP) Programs (Established in 2007)
These invitation-only programs offer a temporary solution for families facing long visa backlogs. Certain individuals from eligible countries with approved family-based immigrant visa petitions can be considered for U.S. parole while waiting for their visas to become available. Examples include the Cuban Family Reunification Parole Program (CFRP), established in 2007, and the broader program launched in 2023 for nationals of Colombia, Cuba, and several other countries.
Filipino World War II Veterans Parole Program (2016)
This program honors the service of Filipino World War II veterans by reuniting them with U.S. citizen or green card holder family members who can assist with their care. It allows parole for specific family members with already-approved visa petitions, enabling them to come to the U.S. while they wait out lengthy visa backlogs.
Military Parole in Place (Ongoing)
This program offers a lifeline to undocumented relatives of active-duty U.S. military members (including veterans). It allows them to apply for one-year increments of parole, enabling them to stay lawfully in the U.S.
International Entrepreneur Parole (Ongoing)
DHS can leverage its parole authority to grant temporary U.S. entry to foreign entrepreneurs with business ventures demonstrating significant public benefit. This program fosters innovation and economic growth.
The CHNV Process (2023)
A new initiative by the Biden administration, this program provides a pathway for Cubans, Haitians, Nicaraguans, and Venezuelans with U.S. financial sponsors to travel to the U.S. This addresses the challenges faced by these nationalities in the traditional immigration system.
IMPORTANT! If you are facing unique humanitarian crisis circumstances, you can explore potential options for temporary entry into the U.S. under these HP programs. Remember, collaborating with immigration lawyers and consultants is vital to determine your eligibility and comply with the Humanitarian Parole application process for any of these programs.
Humanitarian Parole Eligibility and Requirements: Who Qualifies for the HP Program?
While Humanitarian Parole offers a temporary entry opportunity for noncitizens facing urgent situations or those whose presence benefits the public good, securing this benefit requires meeting specific USCIS criteria and understanding the case-by-case review process.
Let’s look at USCIS’s eligibility requirements, the factors it considers when assessing your application, and the overall decision-making process for Humanitarian Parole.
The Core Eligibility Criteria for Humanitarian Parole
USCIS officers methodically examine each parole request and supporting evidence. The burden of proof lies with you, the applicant, to demonstrate why parole authorization is warranted. HP approval hinges on two key factors:
1. Urgent Humanitarian Reasons or Significant Public Benefit
You must establish a compelling reason for the beneficiary being in the U.S. This could be a pressing humanitarian need, such as critical medical treatment unavailable elsewhere or a situation offering substantial public benefit, like participating in legal proceedings essential for justice.
While there’s no legal definition of “urgent humanitarian reasons,” as we said, USCIS considers various factors, including:
- Time-sensitive circumstances should demand immediate or prompt action, like visiting a critically ill family member or receiving essential medical treatment.
- Impact on individual’s well-being: The urgency is evaluated based on the severity of the situation (e.g., escaping persecution or targeted violence in the home country) and potential consequences if parole is denied.
Like “urgent humanitarian reasons,” no legal definition of “significant public benefit” exists. The most common scenarios include situations related to:
- Law enforcement and national security: Parole might be granted to assist with investigations or provide crucial testimony.
- Foreign or domestic policy considerations: Humanitarian Parole could be authorized for diplomatic reasons or to further international cooperation.
Remember that the primary focus of Public Benefit Parole is the public good served by granting the parole. For instance, allowing someone to participate in legal proceedings could be deemed a significant public benefit that serves justice (like bringing a foreign national into the U.S. to testify against a drug trafficking organization).
Sometimes, HP requests might involve urgent humanitarian needs and a significant public benefit. For example, USCIS could authorize parole for someone seeking experimental medical treatment that might benefit the broader U.S. community (a new treatment for Alzheimer’s, for instance, that would change medical research in the United States and the world).
2. Favorable Exercise of Discretion
Even if a compelling reason exists, USCIS officers weigh all circumstances to determine if granting parole is a wise use of their authority. They balance positive factors against any negative aspects of the case when deciding. Here are some balancing factors USCIS officers use when deciding on a Humanitarian Parole case:
- Can the purpose of parole be achieved within a specific timeframe?
- Does the beneficiary intend to leave when parole expires? Are there plans to obtain legal immigration status during the parole period?
- Are there any national security risks associated with the beneficiary?
- Does the beneficiary’s past raise concerns about their presence in the country?
- Will the beneficiary have adequate financial resources while in the U.S.?
- What is the beneficiary’s character like, and how might their presence affect the community?
- Are there alternative means for the beneficiary to travel to the U.S. (e.g., obtaining a visa)?
The Existence of Financial Support and Sponsorship for the Humanitarian Parole Beneficiary
USCIS wants to ensure the beneficiary won’t become a public burden during your parole period. They consider the Health and Human Services Federal Poverty Guidelines to determine the minimum financial support needed. However, they will also consider any exceptional circumstances related to their medical needs or care requirements.
This is where the financial sponsor comes in. A financial supporter is an individual who agrees to provide for the beneficiary’s financial needs while they’re in the U.S. on parole. This person can be anyone willing and able to take on this responsibility. The financial supporter doesn’t have to be the same person who filed the parole application (the petitioner).
The Humanitarian Parole Sponsor's Responsibilities
By participating in humanitarian sponsorship, the sponsor agrees to help the beneficiary become financially independent within three months. This commitment extends further, as they’ll also be responsible for providing financial and social assistance as needed for at least two years.
The good news is there are no specific immigration status requirements for a financial supporter. However, USCIS may view a supporter with a permanent U.S. residency or U.S. citizenship more favorably because they can more easily demonstrate their ability to provide financial backing.
For this reason, to strengthen a Humanitarian Parole application, you should include evidence of the financial supporter’s immigration status (a copy of their Green Card, naturalization certificate, birth certificate, or U.S. passport), but more on the required Humanitarian Parole documents later.
The other good news is that you can identify multiple people willing to share the financial responsibility if you can’t find a supporter with enough resources. In this case, each financial supporter must submit a separate Form I-134, Financial Suppor Affidavit, with backup documents.
Sometimes, a non-profit organization or medical institution might agree to sponsor a parolee and provide financial support. If an organization employee cannot complete Form I-134, the application should include a letter from the organization confirming their commitment to the parolee’s financial needs.
However, if parolees have sufficient financial resources to cover their expenses during parole, they can act as their financial supporters. USCIS will allow it, but they must submit a Form I-134 with supporting documentation like bank statements, investment records, or proof of assets ownership.
The idea here is that securing a reliable financial supporter strengthens a Humanitarian Parole application and chances of success. Carefully gather the necessary documents to prove financial support during the beneficiary’s temporary stay in the U.S.
Humanitarian Parole Documents: What Paperwork You Need to Gather Before Starting Your Application
Like any USCIS petition, gather all the necessary documents for a stress-free Humanitarian Parole application before submitting your application. USCIS requires some mandatory documents, optional documents, and, sometimes, supporting evidence. Here’s a simplified overview of the paperwork and application process you must manage.
Mandatory Documents for the Humanitarian Parole Application
Before submitting your application for Humanitarian Parole, you’ll need to gather all the required documents. This table outlines the mandatory forms you must include:
| Document | Description | Who Needs to Complete |
|---|---|---|
| Form I-131 (Application for Travel Document) | Core application form for Humanitarian Parole | The person applying for a beneficiary's Humanitarian Parole |
| Form I-134 (Financial Support Declaration) (for each beneficiary) | Demonstrates how each beneficiary will be financially supported in the U.S. | One form for each beneficiary (the person you're requesting parole for) |
Optional Documents for Humanitarian Parole Application
In addition to the mandatory documents, several optional forms can enhance your application for Humanitarian Parole:
| Document | Description | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Form I-912 to request the fee waiver | Fee waiver request for Form I-131 filing fee | If you can't afford the filing fee for Form I-131 |
| OR | Written request explaining financial hardship | Alternative to Form I-912 |
| USCIS Form G-28 (for attorney support) | Authorization for USCIS to communicate with your attorney/representative | Allows attorney/representative to handle communication with USCIS on your behalf |
| USCIS Form G-1145 (for electronic communication) | Enables email or text message updates on application status | Receive the progress of your application |
Supporting Evidence for Humanitarian Parole Application
In addition to the application forms, gathering supporting solid evidence is crucial for a successful Humanitarian Parole application. This evidence helps USCIS understand the situation and why parole is warranted.
| Category | Description | Examples |
|---|---|---|
| Explanation for parole request | Clearly outline the compelling reasons for each beneficiary's parole. |
|
| Length of parole needed | Specify the exact timeframe for which each beneficiary requires parole. |
|
| Visa information | Explain why obtaining a U.S. visa isn't feasible for each beneficiary. |
|
| Previous petitions (optional) | Include copies of any relevant petitions previously filed on behalf of the beneficiary (if available). | |
| Supporting documents | Provide any additional documentation that strengthens your case. |
|
| Proof of status (petitioner & financial supporter) | Submit copies of documents verifying your and your financial supporter(s)' valid U.S. immigration status or citizenship (if applicable). |
|
IMPORTANT! A certified English translation must accompany any documents in a foreign language! The translator needs to be competent and ensure the translation is accurate to the best of their ability.
USCIS is adamant about processing each Humanitarian Parole application, so you must take the required documents and supporting evidence seriously. The tables above provide only an overview and a few examples.
We recommend you check the USCIS guide on “Humanitarian or Significant Public Benefit Parole Requests” to understand the documents the applicant, the beneficiary, and the sponsor must gather for a successful application.
It is a tab dropdown tool, in simpler words, so go to your specific reason for parole (like reuniting with family in the United States for urgent humanitarian reasons, receive medical treatment in the United States, be an organ donor to an individual in the United States or participate in civil legal proceedings in the United States).
Click on the blue arrow next to your HP situation and see what it requires and what you need to do.
Humanitarian Parole Application Process: A Step-by-Step Guide
This guide outlines the different stages of applying for Humanitarian Parole for a beneficiary.
Step 1: You File the Humanitarian Parole Application (Petitioner)
Start by carefully reviewing the instructions for both Form I-131 and Form I-134. Then, complete and sign both forms for each beneficiary for whom you’re requesting parole.
Don’t forget to refer to USCIS’s Guidance to ensure you have all the supporting documents for your specific case.
Where to File a Humanitarian Parole Application
Mail all required documents, including the completed forms, supporting evidence, and filing fee (or fee waiver request) to the USCIS Lockbox in Dallas.
Humanitarian Parole Online Applications (For Certain Cases)
Starting June 9th, 2023, USCIS introduced a new option for applying for Humanitarian Parole online in specific situations.
Individuals requesting parole for someone outside the U.S. due to urgent humanitarian reasons or a significant public benefit (application types 1.e. or 1.f. on the paper Form I-131) can submit Form I-131 online.
However, initial parole requests under USCIS family reunification programs (e.g., Cuban Family Reunification or Filipino World War II Veterans programs) are excluded from this procedure.
Moreover, individuals already paroled within the U.S. requesting a renewal or extension of their parole period (application types 1.e. or 1.f. on the paper Form I-131) can also file Form I-131 online.
IMPORTANT! Applying online for Humanitarian Parole for any reason other than those mentioned above could lead to delays, rejection, or denial of your application with no refund of the filing fee.
Step 2: Pay the Humanitarian Parole Filing Fee
If you wonder how much the Humanitarian Parole application costs, the good news is that you only pay the I-131 form fee.
Suppose you’re requesting parole for someone outside the U.S. for urgent humanitarian reasons or a significant public benefit. In that case, the filing fee is $630 for paper applications or $580 if submitted electronically.
This fee structure also applies if you’re requesting an extension of parole or a new parole period for someone already paroled within the U.S.
If you can’t afford the fee, you can submit Form I-912 (Request for Fee Waiver) or a written explanation of your financial hardship.
That’s it! If you (e)mailed a correct application with all the necessary documents and proof, you must now wait.
Humanitarian Parole Processing Time: What to Expect
Now that we’ve seen the Humanitarian Parole application process, you must wonder how long this entire procedure takes.
USCIS typically takes between 60 and 120 days to process a Humanitarian Parole application after receiving all the necessary documents.
However, there are some exceptions and considerations you must factor in when you calculate the processing times and timeline of a Humanitarian Parole application.
Expedited Processing of Humanitarian Parole
In life-threatening emergencies or other highly urgent situations, you can request the expedited processing of Form I-131.
Call the USCIS Contact Center at 800-375-5283 (TTY 800-767-1833) to inquire about expediting your case. Alternatively, try reaching out through their virtual assistant, Emma.
However, if the beneficiary’s situation has become critically urgent since the initial application, you or an attorney can submit an expedited request via email to USCIS, clearly explaining the emergency.
If USCIS approves your expedited request, you’ll receive a decision on your application or petition much quicker, typically within a week. However, you need to consider USCIS’s massive backlog.
Current Humanitarian Parole Processing Delays
USCIS is currently experiencing a very high volume of parole requests. While they strive for efficient processing, applicants should anticipate delays. USCIS is actively working to address this backlog and return to standard processing times as soon as possible.
The Vital Need for a Complete Application
Submitting a complete application with all required evidence at the outset helps avoid delays. If USCIS needs to request additional information from you, it will extend the processing timeline.
What Happens After You Submit the Humanitarian Parole Petition
USCIS will first confirm its jurisdiction over your case and assess whether there’s a particularly urgent reason for expedited processing. They’ll forward your application to the appropriate office if they lack jurisdiction.
Then, a USCIS officer thoroughly reviews your application and supporting documents (also conducting all mandatory security checks and vetting procedures on the beneficiary). USCIS might send a Request for Evidence, asking for additional documents if necessary.
Then, you receive the notification.
What Does the HP Beneficiary Do If USCIS Grants Conditional Approval?
If the beneficiary appears eligible for parole, you’ll receive a conditional approval notice or a notice of continued parole processing via mail.
This notice outlines the following steps: scheduling appointments with the U.S. embassy/consulate, collecting biometrics (fingerprints, photos), obtaining travel documents, and any conditions the beneficiary must meet if paroled into the U.S.
USCIS will also notify the relevant U.S. embassy/consulate if the beneficiary resides in a country with one. If USCIS requires further processing because the beneficiary isn’t in a place with a U.S. embassy/consulate, they’ll notify you once the beneficiary reaches a location with one. At that point, USCIS will provide instructions on the next steps.
If USCIS conditionally approves the HP request, the beneficiary must complete Form DS-160 (Application for a Nonimmigrant Visa) and attend a consular appointment at a U.S. embassy/consulate.
This appointment verifies their identity and collects biometrics for further security checks. For those 14 and older, biometrics are mandatory. If no damaging information or new identity details are found, the consulate issues a “boarding foil” allowing travel to the U.S. within 30 days. While a boarding foil doesn’t guarantee parole, it allows the beneficiary to proceed to the next step.
This one is the port of entry inspection. Upon arrival at the port of entry, a CBP officer inspects the beneficiary. If CBP authorizes parole, they’ll issue Form I-94 (Arrival/Departure Record) documenting the authorized parole period, which begins at the time of parole.
IMPORTANT! If the parolee fails to comply with any conditions outlined in the approval notice or parole conditions, USCIS may terminate their parole. Moreover, USCIS recommends creating an online account to stay updated on the HP case status, submit additional evidence if necessary, and access related notices.
What Happens If USCIS Denies the Beneficiary's Humanitarian Parole
USCIS understands that a denied parole request can be frustrating. If you believe the decision was made in error, here are two options to explore:
1. Motion for Reconsideration/Reopening
Suppose you think USCIS made a mistake in evaluating the Humanitarian Parole case. In that case, you can file a formal motion requesting them to reconsider the decision or reopen the entire proceeding (or both).
Here’s what you’ll need to do:
- File your motion using Form I-290B, Notice of Appeal or Motion. You must submit the motion within 33 days of the date on the denial notice (including the 3-day mailing grace period).
- Include the fee payment proof (or a fee waiver request) with your motion.
- Attach a copy of your denial notice to your Form I-290B.
If you must deal with a Humanitarian Parole denial, it’s best to hire an immigration lawyer immediately. Remember, the beneficiary might be in trouble on the other side.
2. Submit a New Application
If significant developments have been relevant to your original parole request since the denial, you may consider filing a new Form I-131 application. There is no limit on the number of applications you can submit. Don’t forget to include the filing fee or a request for a fee waiver with your new application!
Life in the United States as a Humanitarian Parole Beneficiary
In some cases, USCIS may attach specific requirements to the beneficiary’s parole grant. These conditions are designed to ensure they comply with the terms of their temporary stay and pose no risk to national security. Some examples of potential parole conditions include:
- Reporting requirements: USCIS might require the parolee to report to them in person or by mail at specific intervals to verify their continued compliance with the terms of their parole.
- Travel restrictions: The beneficiary’s parole might come with limitations on travel within the U.S. or restrictions on leaving and re-entering the country.
- Maintaining documentation: USCIS might require them to maintain certain documents, such as proof of health insurance or financial support, throughout their parole period.
Travel Outside the U.S. as a Humanitarian Parolee
A parole document issued outside the U.S. is only valid for one entry. Once the beneficiary enters the U.S. using parole, departing the country again terminates their parole status. If they are paroled into the U.S. and wish to travel abroad and then return, they must apply for Advance Parole before their departure by submitting a separate application using a new Form I-131.
If they don’t apply for Advance Parole before traveling, they can still attempt to re-enter the U.S. upon their return, but they must apply for a visa or request parole from outside the country. This is not guaranteed and may cause delays or even denial of entry.
Revocation of Parole
It’s important to understand that USCIS can revoke parole without prior notice. This can occur under two main circumstances:
- If USCIS determines that the reasons for granting the beneficiary’s parole are no longer valid or the situation has changed significantly, they may revoke their parole status.
- Failing to comply with any conditions attached to the Humanitarian Parole beneficiary’s grant, such as missing a reporting requirement or unauthorized travel, can lead to revocation.
Re-Parole and Extension of Parole Applications
The beneficiary’s parole ends when their authorized period expires, it’s revoked, they depart the U.S., or they obtain permanent immigration status, whichever comes first. Individuals who have already been granted Humanitarian Parole and now require an extension of their authorized stay can apply for Re-Parole.
The petitioner (the person filing on the beneficiary’s behalf) can initiate the Re-Parole process by following these steps:
- Download and file a new Form I-131 (Application for Travel Document). In Part 2 of the form, check box 1.e. or 1. f. (depending on the reason for re-parole) and write “Re-Parole” at the application’s top.
- If necessary, submit a new Form I-134 (Declaration of Financial Support) to demonstrate continued financial support for the beneficiary.
- Include the required filing fees (or request a fee waiver) and provide any additional documents or evidence that support your request for a longer parole period for the beneficiary. Be sure to explain why they need an extension.
IMPORTANT! To ensure enough processing time and avoid accruing unlawful presence for the beneficiary, submit the Re-Parole request well before the current parole period expires. Also, double-check the USCIS Direct Filing Addresses for Form I-131 page for the appropriate mailing address for the Re-Parole application. Filing to the wrong address can cause processing delays or denials!
The Right to Work as a Humanitarian Parole Beneficiary
Once in the U.S., the parolee can (optionally) apply for employment authorization by filing Form I-765.
Obtaining a Green Card as a Humanitarian Parolee
Humanitarian Parole is not a visa, nor does it pave the way for one. It’s a separate authorization for urgent humanitarian reasons or public benefit purposes. By now, Humanitarian Parole grants temporary permission to stay in the U.S., whereas visas are issued for longer durations or specific purposes (work, study, etc.).
IMPORTANT! Unlike some visas, Humanitarian Parole typically doesn’t offer a direct way toward permanent residency or citizenship!
However, if eligible, a parole recipient may be able to apply for a different type of visa, such as a work visa, to remain in the U.S. This visa could then potentially lead to permanent residency through “adjustment of status” procedures. Moreover, suppose the parole recipient has an immediate family member who’s a U.S. citizen or green card holder (like a spouse). In that case, they might be eligible to apply for a green card through family members.
If a parolee is interested in adjusting their status, advise them to hire an immigration consulting firm or an immigration-oriented law firm to understand their options and success chances.
Do You Need Help to Assist a Beneficiary Obtain Humanitarian Parole?
Understanding different HP programs or deciding when standard Humanitarian Parole is the better option for someone who needs urgent humanitarian aid or can provide significant public benefit but lacks the qualifications for a traditional visa requires legal expertise.
Here at ImmigrationDirect, our dedicated immigration attorneys and consultants can provide the comprehensive support you need. We’ll sit down with you to assess your beneficiary’s situation and determine if a Humanitarian Parole application is the most suitable course of action for you and them.
We’ll guide you through the application process, ensuring all forms are completed accurately and include the necessary documentation to boost your approval chances. Furthermore, we’ll be by your side throughout the journey, offering clear explanations of the process and Humanitarian Parole processing times, answering your questions, and addressing any concerns. Don’t hesitate to reach out! We’re committed to helping reunite families and offer a haven to those in urgent need!
