In June 2024, the Biden administration announced a new program allowing spouses of citizens to apply for parole-in-place from the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). Under this initiative, they do not have to risk years of separation from their families to apply for a green card.
While current laws allow noncitizens to apply for citizenship through their spouses, the process can be risky, especially for unauthorized immigrants. To be eligible, they must first leave the country, go to a consulate abroad and secure a new immigrant visa to return to the United States.
Unfortunately, once they leave the country, they often trigger a years-long bar on re-entry, separating them from their families for years. With the new program, noncitizens can unlock a streamlined path to becoming permanent residents without being away from their loved ones.
Parole-in-place for green card applicants
Under the new DHS program, people eligible for citizenship through their spouses may apply within the country. This way, green card applicants do not have to risk triggering re-entry bars by leaving and being separated from their families.
Moreover, even if an applicant’s grant of parole expires or is revoked in the future, they will still be considered to have been paroled into the country. With this protection, even if a new president cancels the program, those who have already received the parole can still apply for citizenship within the United States.
Who is eligible for parole?
The new program can change the lives of noncitizens aiming to secure a green card in the country. Those who can apply for parole include:
- Those who are in the country on June 17, 2024
- Spouses of United States citizens as of June 17, 2024
- People who have continuously lived in the country since June 17, 2014
- Those without any disqualifying criminal offense
- People who do not pose security or safety threats
Applicants must provide genuine documentation proving that they meet the eligibility criteria. Individuals unfamiliar with the application process may also seek the support of an experienced lawyer.
