1. What is Humanitarian Parole?
Humanitarian parole is a form of temporary admission to the United States for individuals and groups who are otherwise inadmissible. It is granted on a case-by-case basis to eligible foreign nationals who have urgent humanitarian reasons or significant public benefit reasons for being allowed to enter the United States temporarily.2. Who is eligible for Humanitarian Parole?
Individuals and groups who are otherwise unable to enter the United States due to inadmissibility, but have urgent humanitarian reasons or significant public benefit reasons, may be eligible for humanitarian parole. This can include individuals facing a medical emergency, victims of human trafficking or domestic violence, and individuals participating in cultural exchange programs.
3. How do you apply for Humanitarian Parole?
To apply for humanitarian parole, an individual or their representative must submit Form I-131, Application for Travel Document, along with supporting documents and evidence of the urgent humanitarian reason or significant public benefit. The application must also include a filing fee of $575 (as of 2021).
4. How long does it take to process a Humanitarian Parole application?
The processing time for humanitarian parole applications varies depending on the volume of applications received by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). Generally, it can take several months for an application to be processed.
5. Is there a limit on how long someone can stay in the U.S. on Humanitarian Parole?
Yes, humanitarian parole is typically granted for a limited period of time as determined by USCIS based on the specific circumstances outlined in the application.
6. Can you work while on Humanitarian Parole?
Yes, individuals granted humanitarian parole are eligible to apply for employment authorization through USCIS.
7. Can you travel outside of the U.S. while on Humanitarian Parole?
Humanitarian parole does not grant any immigration status or guarantee re-entry into the United States after temporary travel abroad. Individuals issued humanitarian parole may request parole for multiple entries into the United States for up to one year from the date of the initial grant.
8. Is Humanitarian Parole a path to permanent residence?
No, humanitarian parole is a temporary status and does not lead to permanent residence in the United States. Individuals who wish to stay in the U.S. permanently must apply for another immigration benefit such as adjustment of status or obtain a visa through consular processing.
9. What happens if my request for Humanitarian Parole is denied?
If your request for humanitarian parole is denied, you may be able to appeal the decision. It is important to carefully review the denial notice and follow any instructions provided by USCIS in order to file an appeal within the required timeframe.
10. Can individuals with prior immigration violations apply for Humanitarian Parole?
Yes, individuals with prior immigration violations may still be eligible for humanitarian parole if they can demonstrate urgent humanitarian reasons or significant public benefit reasons for being allowed temporary admission to the United States. However, any underlying immigration violations will still need to be resolved and may affect eligibility for other forms of relief or future U.S. visa applications.
2. Who is eligible for Humanitarian Parole?
Humanitarian parole is intended for individuals who are otherwise inadmissible to the United States, but have a compelling emergency or urgent humanitarian reason to enter the country. This includes, but is not limited to:
– Individuals who need to enter the U.S. for medical treatment that is unavailable in their home country
– Victims of human trafficking or other serious crimes who need protection in the U.S.
– Individuals whose entry would be in the national interest (such as assisting with a significant public health crisis)
– Those seeking to reunite with close family members in extremely urgent situations (such as imminent death)
Each case is evaluated on an individual basis by United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), and eligibility may vary depending on circumstances.
3. What forms of relief are available through Humanitarian Parole?
Humanitarian Parole can provide temporary legal status and entry into the United States for individuals who otherwise would not be able to enter, such as those without a valid visa. This can allow them to stay in the country for a specific purpose, such as seeking medical treatment, attending a funeral or family emergency, or participating in important legal proceedings. It can also allow for individuals to work lawfully in the United States during their authorized stay period.
4. What are the requirements to be granted Humanitarian Parole?
In order to be granted Humanitarian Parole, the following requirements must be met:
1. The individual must be outside of the United States at the time of application.
2. The situation must be urgent and compelling, such as a medical emergency, humanitarian crisis, or other urgent circumstances.
3. There must be a lack of any other immigration options available.
4. The individual must provide evidence of their relationship to a U.S. citizen or permanent resident who can demonstrate a strong interest in helping them enter the U.S.
5. The individual must demonstrate that they will not pose a security risk to the United States.
6. They must also prove that they have no intention of abandoning their residence in their home country and will depart the U.S. after the authorized stay.
7. The applicant must pay a fee, currently $930 per family or individual application, which is non-refundable and subject to change at any time.
It is important to note that meeting these requirements does not guarantee approval for Humanitarian Parole. Each case is considered on an individual basis and final discretion lies with the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).
5. How long does Humanitarian Parole last?
The length of time for Humanitarian Parole varies depending on the specific circumstances and reasons for the parole. It is typically granted for a temporary period, while allowing the individual to enter or remain in the US for a specific purpose or reason. The length of time can range from a few weeks to up to one year. After the period expires, the individual must leave the US unless they have been granted legal status through another means.
6. How do I apply for Humanitarian Parole?
To apply for Humanitarian Parole, you must submit Form I-131, Application for Travel Document, along with supporting documents that demonstrate the urgent humanitarian reason for your request. This could include medical records, death certificate of a family member, or letters from religious or community leaders. You must also submit evidence of your identity and any previous immigration violations.
You can file the application at a U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) office or mail it to the USCIS Chicago Lockbox facility. The filing fee is $575 and can be paid by check or money order made payable to “U.S. Department of Homeland Security.” If you cannot afford the fee, you may be eligible to request a fee waiver.
It may also be beneficial to seek the assistance of an immigration attorney when applying for Humanitarian Parole as they can help ensure your application is complete and accurately reflects your urgent need for travel into the United States.
7. What are the fees associated with Humanitarian Parole applications?
The current fees for Humanitarian Parole applications are $930 for first-time requests and $585 for re-entry requests. In addition, applicants may need to pay additional costs such as biometric services fees and medical examination fees. It is recommended to consult with an immigration attorney for a full breakdown of fees based on individual circumstances.
8. Are there any other benefits to getting Humanitarian Parole?
Yes, in addition to being allowed to enter and remain in the United States for a specific period of time, individuals granted Humanitarian Parole may also be eligible for work authorization and other federal benefits, such as temporary housing assistance, health care coverage, and financial assistance. This can help provide support during their stay in the United States while they wait for their immigration status to be finalized. Additionally, individuals on Humanitarian Parole may also be able to apply for permanent residency or other forms of immigration relief.
9. What is the process for appealing a denial of Humanitarian Parole?
To appeal a denial of Humanitarian Parole, you will need to file a written request with the USCIS. This request should include any additional evidence or documentation that supports your case and argues why you believe the denial was incorrect. The appeal must be filed within 30 days of the decision letter.You can also request an oral hearing, which will allow you to present your case in person before an officer from USCIS who was not involved in the initial decision. The request for an oral hearing must also be made within 30 days of the decision letter.
After receiving your appeal, USCIS will review your case again and make a final decision. If the appeal is denied, there is no further review or appeal available within USCIS. However, if your situation has changed significantly or if there was new evidence that was not available during the original application process, you may reapply for Humanitarian Parole with this new information.
10. How long does it take to get a decision on a Humanitarian Parole application?
The processing time for a Humanitarian Parole application can vary depending on individual circumstances and the volume of applications being processed. Generally, it can take anywhere from a few months to a year to receive a decision on a Humanitarian Parole application. However, urgent or emergency cases may be expedited.11. What evidence should I submit to support my application for Humanitarian Parole?
There is no specific list of evidence that must be submitted for a Humanitarian Parole application, as it will vary depending on the individual circumstances and reasons for seeking parole. However, some examples of evidence that may be helpful to include are:
1. Personal statement: A detailed letter explaining the reason for seeking humanitarian parole and any extenuating circumstances that support the need for parole. This could include information about medical or financial hardship, family ties, or other compelling factors.
2. Documentation of the emergency: Any documents that support the claim of an urgent humanitarian need, such as medical records or a letter from a doctor explaining why treatment is not available in the home country.
3. Documentary evidence: Any supporting documents related to the person’s situation, such as police reports, death certificates, or other official records.
4. Letters of support: Letters from friends, family members, employers, community organizations, or others who can provide additional information about the person’s situation and need for humanitarian parole.
5. Proof of relationship: If you are applying for humanitarian parole based on family ties, include documentation such as birth certificates, marriage certificates, or adoption papers.
6. Financial documents: If your request for humanitarian parole is based on financial hardship or inability to pay for necessary medical treatment, you should include evidence of your financial situation such bank statements or tax returns.
7. Evidence of immigration status: If you have previously applied for asylum or other immigration benefits in the United States and were denied, provide documentation to show your efforts to regularize your status.
It is important to provide as much detailed evidence as possible to support your case for humanitarian parole. It may also be helpful to consult with an experienced immigration attorney who can assist you in gathering and organizing your evidence and presenting a strong case to USCIS.
12. How can I get legal advice about my application for Humanitarian Parole?
You can consult with an immigration lawyer who is experienced in humanitarian parole cases. You can also contact local legal aid organizations or non-profit immigration agencies for assistance. Additionally, the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) offers a list of free or low-cost legal providers on their website.
13. Can I bring family members with me if I am granted Humanitarian Parole?
It is possible to bring family members with you if they are included in your application for humanitarian parole and granted approval by the US Citizenship and Immigration Services. Each case is evaluated individually and may have different guidelines, so it is best to consult with an immigration lawyer for specific information regarding your situation.
14. Can I work or study in the US if I am granted Humanitarian Parole?
Yes, Humanitarian Parole recipients are usually eligible to legally work and/or study in the US. However, they must still comply with all relevant laws and regulations related to employment and education in the US. They may also be required to obtain appropriate authorization or permits before beginning any employment or educational activities. It is important for Humanitarian Parole recipients to consult with an immigration attorney or the designated parole office for more information on their specific case situation.
15. How do I renew my Humanitarian Parole if needed?
To renew your Humanitarian Parole, you will need to submit a new application to the USCIS. This application should be submitted at least 45 days before your current parole expires and should include updated information demonstrating that you still meet the criteria for humanitarian parole. You may also need to submit additional supporting documents and pay a renewal fee. It is important to carefully review the USCIS instructions and guidelines for renewing Humanitarian Parole before submitting your application.
16. Can I travel while on Humanitarian Parole?
Yes, you can travel on Humanitarian Parole. However, you must first obtain consent from USCIS and receive a travel document before leaving the United States. Failure to obtain proper consent and travel documentation may result in your parole being revoked.In addition, please note that traveling while on Humanitarian Parole does not guarantee reentry to the United States. Each time you wish to reenter the United States, you must obtain advance parole from USCIS.
It is important to keep in mind that traveling while on Humanitarian Parole may also affect your ability to adjust status or obtain permanent residency in the future. It is recommended that you consult with an immigration attorney before undertaking any international travel while on Humanitarian Parole.
17. Are there any restrictions on travel while on Humanitarian Parole?
Yes, individuals on Humanitarian Parole are typically only allowed to travel within the United States and may have restrictions placed on their ability to leave the country. They may also need approval from the Department of Homeland Security before travelling outside their designated area.
18. Are there any medical benefits available if I am granted Humanitarian Parole?
It is possible that you may have access to medical benefits if you are granted Humanitarian Parole, as it allows you to temporarily enter the United States for specific and urgent reasons. However, this will depend on the specific circumstances and conditions under which the Humanitarian Parole is granted. It is best to consult with an immigration lawyer or contact the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) for more information on available benefits.
19. Can I apply for permanent residency while on Humanitarian Parole?
It is possible to apply for permanent residency while on Humanitarian Parole, but it is not guaranteed. The decision to grant permanent residency is made by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) and will depend on your individual circumstances and eligibility criteria. You may want to consult with an immigration attorney for guidance on this matter.
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