Immigration Policy Alert!
Margaret W. Wong and Associates is excited for the Biden Administration to announce an anticipated new policy called “parole in place” for undocumented spouses of U.S. citizens. The announcement could come as early as tomorrow, June 18, 2024.
This policy is expected to affect over 1 million undocumented people in the United States. It could provide a pathway for lawful permanent residence (also known as a “greencard”) for certain individuals who qualify.
What is Parole in Place?
Parole in Place (known as “PIP”) allows an undocumented individual who came to the United States without inspection (or without authorization) to stay for a certain period of time. Traditionally, PIP is granted on a case-by-case basis for urgent humanitarian reasons or significant public benefit. It has been a policy used for families of US military members.
Most importantly, PIP is considered a lawful immigration status and allows the individual to apply for a temporary employment authorization and, for certain individuals, to apply for a greencard.
Who Does This Policy Affect?
The Marriage PIP is expected to affect noncitizens married to US citizens who entered the United States without inspection, or without authorization. If granted, the individual can apply for a temporary work authorization (as well as for a social security number and driver’s license).
A noncitizen who has only had one entry into the United States, has no serious criminal or immigration violations, and is married to a U.S. citizen, may be able apply for a green card under this program. Those who are currently married to a U.S. citizen and are pursuing the I-601A provisional unlawful presence waiver should consider the Marriage PIP option as an alterative way to obtain their greencard without having to leave the United States.
What Should I Do?
Each individual case is different. We cannot be sure what the new policy will require until the Biden Administration makes the announcement. Please check back for updates as more detailed information becomes available. For more information, please call our attorney Fabiola Cini at 216-566-9908 to discuss how this policy could affect your case.
