1. What is humanitarian parole?

Humanitarian parole is a form of temporary immigration relief granted by the U.S. government for “urgent humanitarian reasons”. It allows an individual to enter or stay in the U.S. for a specific period of time for a compelling emergency. Examples of such emergencies can include medical treatment, family reunification, and other urgent humanitarian reasons.

2. How do I apply for humanitarian parole?

To apply for humanitarian parole, you must submit Form I-131, Application for Travel Document, to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). Additionally, you must provide evidence to support your claim that you meet the criteria for humanitarian parole and explain why your presence in the United States is urgently needed.

3. Who is eligible for humanitarian parole?

Generally, individuals who have an urgent humanitarian need to travel to the United States may be eligible for humanitarian parole. This includes individuals needing medical treatment, individuals affected by an emergency or disaster, and individuals whose entry into the United States is necessary to facilitate a high-profile humanitarian project.

4. What are the criteria for humanitarian parole?

Humanitarian parole is a discretionary measure that may be granted to individuals for a temporary period of time due to a compelling emergency. It is not intended to be used as a method of immigration. In order to qualify for humanitarian parole, applicants must demonstrate that there is a compelling emergency involving either: (1) significant health-related concerns, (2) significant public benefit or (3) due to emergent circumstances involving a family member. Examples of compelling emergencies include severe medical conditions, care for a terminally ill family member, family reunification, or the need to travel for an immediate funeral.

5. How long does a humanitarian parole last?

A humanitarian parole lasts for up to one year.

6. Is there a fee associated with a humanitarian parole application?

Yes, a fee is associated with a humanitarian parole application. The current fee is $585 and must be paid when filing the application.

7. What supporting documents are required for a humanitarian parole application?

The following documents must be submitted with a humanitarian parole application:

1. Evidence of the emergency or compelling situation that requires the individual to be paroled into the U.S.

2. Evidence of the individual’s identity, including a passport, national identification card, or birth certificate

3. A detailed description of the individual’s circumstances, including supporting statements from family members, employers, or other individuals who can vouch for the individual’s character, community standing, and ties to their home country

4. Medical records, if applicable

5. Evidence of financial resources (such as income statements or sponsor letters) to cover the costs of living in the United States during the parole period

6. A statement from an employer or school verifying that the individual will have employment or educational opportunities in the U.S., if applicable

7. Proof of a residence in the United States that will provide adequate housing during the parole period, if applicable

8. Evidence of any other factors that demonstrate why the individual should be granted humanitarian parole

8. Can I travel outside the U.S. while on humanitarian parole?

No, you cannot travel outside the US while on Humanitarian Parole. Humanitarian Parole is a temporary status granted to individuals who are otherwise inadmissible to the US and is used to facilitate temporary travel for a specific purpose. It does not confer any immigration status and must be used for the purpose specified on your parole document.

9. Can I work while on humanitarian parole?

Yes, you are allowed to work while in the United States on humanitarian parole. However, you will need to obtain an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) from the USCIS before starting any job.

10. Does a humanitarian parole guarantee admission to the United States?

No, a humanitarian parole does not guarantee admission to the United States. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) may grant humanitarian parole on a case-by-case basis for urgent humanitarian reasons or significant public benefit. However DHS may also deny a request for humanitarian parole if conditions or risk factors suggest that the individual poses a threat to national security or public safety.

11. Is there an age limit for humanitarian parole applicants?

No, there is no age limit for humanitarian parole applicants.

12. How long does it take to receive a decision on a humanitarian parole application?

The processing time for a humanitarian parole application varies depending on the complexity of the case. Generally, the process can take anywhere from one to six months to receive a decision.

13. Are there any restrictions on the number of people who can be granted humanitarian parole?

Yes, the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) sets limits on the number of people who can be granted humanitarian parole. The number of people granted humanitarian parole each year is limited and is subject to change. USCIS also considers the availability of resources when evaluating requests for humanitarian parole.

14. Can I extend my stay beyond the expiration of my humanitarian parole?

Yes, you may be eligible for an extension of your humanitarian parole. You must submit a request to USCIS with all the necessary documents in order to be considered for an extension. Any extension needs to be requested before the expiration date of the original parole grant.

15. Can I bring family members with me if I am granted humanitarian parole?

Each case is evaluated on its own merits. Generally, family members may be granted parole status if they are found to be necessary to help achieve the purpose of the parole, such as a family reunification.

16. What happens if my humanitarian parole application is denied?

If your humanitarian parole application is denied, you will not be able to enter the United States. You may have the opportunity to appeal the decision or file a new application. If you have received a final denial, you may also consider contacting an immigration attorney to assist with any further legal options.

17. Are there any special considerations for emergency situations when applying for humanitarian parole?

For emergency situations, USCIS may be able to provide quicker processing times for humanitarian parole applications. Depending on the circumstances, USCIS may approve the application within two weeks of receiving all of the required documents and information. Additionally, USCIS may consider expediting the processing of humanitarian parole applications in emergencies or extreme hardship cases.

18. Will an approved humanitarian parole application result in a permanent legal status in the United States?

No. Humanitarian parole allows people to temporarily enter the United States for a specific purpose, such as medical treatment or attending a funeral. The approved parole is only valid for a certain amount of time. After the parole expires, the individual will have to return to their home country.

19. Does a person on humanitarian parole still have to go through inspection at a port of entry upon arrival in the United States?

Yes, a person on humanitarian parole must still go through inspection at a port of entry upon arrival in the United States. The person will need to show proof of parole approval in addition to other required documents.

20. Are there any other options available if I am not eligible for humanitarian parole?

There are other options, such as applying for a visa, adjusting status, or even self-petitioning for a green card. However, the eligibility requirements for each of these options vary and may require additional paperwork. It is best to consult with an immigration attorney to determine which option may be best for your particular situation.