how can i apply for humanitarian parole?
Humanitarian parole is a special permission granted by the U.S. government to allow individuals to enter the United States for a temporary period due to urgent humanitarian reasons or significant public benefit.
What is Humanitarian Parole?
Humanitarian parole allows individuals who do not have a visa to enter the United States temporarily for emergency or humanitarian reasons. This status is not intended to bypass regular visa processing and is granted only in exceptional cases.
Eligibility Criteria for Humanitarian Parole
To qualify for humanitarian parole, you must demonstrate:
Urgent Humanitarian Reasons: Situations such as medical emergencies, family reunification during critical times, or urgent protection from harm.
Significant Public Benefit: Situations that serve a significant public benefit, such as participating in a civil or criminal court case.
Lack of Alternatives: No other means of entering the United States available, such as a visa or refugee status.
Steps to Apply for Humanitarian Parole
1. Complete Form I-131
Form I-131: Submit Form I-131, Application for Travel Document, to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).
Part 2: Check box 1.d for "I am applying for an Advance Parole Document for a person who is outside the United States."
2. Complete Form I-134
Form I-134: Submit Form I-134, Affidavit of Support, to demonstrate that you have financial support during your stay in the United States.
Sponsor: The sponsor (typically a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident) must complete and sign this form.
3. Gather Supporting Documentation
Cover Letter: Include a detailed cover letter explaining the urgent humanitarian reasons or significant public benefit for the parole request.
Supporting Evidence: Provide evidence supporting your claims, such as medical records, letters from doctors, affidavits from family members, or court documents.
Identity Documents: Include copies of your passport, birth certificate, and other identification documents.
4. Submit the Application
Filing Fee: Pay the required filing fee for Form I-131 (check the latest fee schedule on the USCIS website).
Mailing Address: Send your completed application package, including Form I-131, Form I-134, supporting documents, and filing fee, to the appropriate USCIS address listed on the USCIS website.
5. Wait for a Decision
Processing Time: The processing time for humanitarian parole applications can vary. It is important to submit your application as early as possible.
Approval or Denial: USCIS will notify you of their decision. If approved, you will receive an Advance Parole Document, allowing you to travel to the United States.
Important Considerations
Temporary Status: Humanitarian parole is temporary and typically granted for the duration of the emergency or for a specified period.
Extension: If you need to stay longer, you must apply for an extension before your parole expires.
Consult Legal Advice: Consider consulting with an immigration attorney to help prepare your application and ensure all requirements are met.
Keywords
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Conclusion
Applying for humanitarian parole involves demonstrating urgent humanitarian reasons or significant public benefit, completing the necessary forms, and providing supporting documentation. Understanding the process and requirements can help ensure a successful application.
If you have any questions or need legal assistance with your humanitarian parole application, please contact Liang Law at (408) 780-8862. We are here to help you through every step of the process.