New Parole in Place Process Explained for Green Card | How to Obtain a Green Card

Baking AI
Nov 2
3 min read

Parole in Place (PIP) is a special immigration process that allows certain undocumented family members of U.S. military personnel and veterans to stay in the country and adjust their status without leaving the United States. It offers an opportunity to obtain a Green Card even if the person entered without inspection or authorization.

This program provides stability for military families while keeping loved ones together. Recent updates from the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) have made the process more structured and accessible.

What Is Parole in Place

Parole in Place grants temporary lawful status to eligible family members who entered the U.S. without inspection. It does not provide permanent residence on its own but makes it possible to apply for a Green Card through an immediate relative who is a U.S. citizen.

Once approved, the applicant can apply for U.S. Citizenship & Naturalization in the future, if they meet all legal requirements.

Who Qualifies for Parole in Place

Eligibility usually covers family members of:

Active-duty U.S. Armed Forces members
Selected Reserve members
Veterans (living or deceased) who served in the U.S. military

Qualifying family members include:

Spouses
Parents
Children (unmarried and under 21)

Each applicant must show proof of family relationship, military service documents of the U.S. service member, and evidence of physical presence in the United States.

How Parole in Place Works

The Parole in Place process grants “parole” status for one year at a time, which can be renewed. During this period, the individual can stay lawfully in the U.S. and may also apply for work authorization.

After approval, the applicant becomes eligible to adjust their immigration status through Form I-485 without leaving the country. This eliminates the risk of triggering bars to reentry due to unlawful presence.

Step-by-Step Guide to Apply for Parole in Place

Collect Documentation
- Proof of identity (passport or national ID)
- Evidence of relationship to the U.S. service member (marriage or birth certificate)
- Proof of military service (Form DD-214, active-duty letter, or military ID)
- Two passport-style photos
Prepare Form I-131 Complete and submit Form I-131, Application for Travel Document, marked “Parole in Place.”
Submit to Local USCIS Office Mail or deliver the packet to the USCIS office serving your residence.
Attend Biometrics Appointment USCIS may request fingerprints and other background checks.
Await Decision Approval typically grants one year of parole, renewable upon request.
Apply for Adjustment of Status Once granted, file Form I-485 for Green Card eligibility based on the family relationship.

Common Questions About Parole in Place

Can PIP beneficiaries travel outside the U.S.?

No. Leaving the U.S. without advance permission may cancel your parole status.

Does PIP protect against deportation?

While under parole status, you are protected from removal. However, maintaining renewal is important.

Can parents of military members qualify?

Yes. Parents of U.S. citizen service members or veterans can apply if they meet all requirements.

Can a PIP beneficiary later apply for a Spouse & Fiancé(e) Visa?

No, because PIP already allows adjustment from within the U.S. instead of visa processing abroad.

Why Parole in Place Matters

The program honors the service of U.S. military members by supporting their families. It helps eligible relatives obtain lawful permanent residence through family-based immigration channels such as Parents, Children & Siblings petitions.

Need Legal Help With Parole in Place or Green Card Process

Immigration laws can be complex, especially for military families. Professional guidance can help prevent errors and delays.

Tejas G. Patel, Esq., founder of T.P.L. Global, is recognized among Boston’s top immigration lawyers. His team assists clients with all immigration pathways including Visitor Visa, Green Card, U.S. Citizenship & Naturalization, and family-based petitions.