Keeping Families Together Parole in Place (PIP): A New Pathway to Unity

The Keeping Families Together PIP is a recent initiative designed to offer similar relief to a broader range of families who face the risk of separation due to immigration status. This program provides a pathway to lawful status for those who meet specific criteria, allowing them to remain in the U.S. and apply for a green card without leaving the country.

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Eligibility Criteria: To be considered for Keeping Families Together PIP on a case-by-case basis, an individual must:

• Be Present in the U.S. without Admission or Parole: The applicant must be physically present in the U.S. without lawful admission or parole.

• Continuous Presence: The applicant must have been continuously present in the United States for at least 10 years as of June 17, 2024.

• Marriage to a U.S. Citizen: The applicant must have a legally valid marriage to a U.S. citizen as of June 17, 2024.

• No Disqualifying Criminal History: The applicant must not have a criminal history that disqualifies them or constitute a threat to national security or public safety. We discuss potentially disqualifying crimes here. 

• Favorable Discretion: The applicant should otherwise merit a favorable exercise of discretion by USCIS.

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Eligibility for Noncitizen Children: Noncitizen children of potential requestors may also be considered for parole under this process if they meet the following criteria:

• Presence in the U.S. without Admission or Parole: The child must be physically present in the U.S. without lawful admission or parole.

• Qualifying Stepparent Relationship: The child must have a qualifying stepchild relationship to a U.S. citizen as of June 17, 2024.

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Benefits of Keeping Families Together PIP:

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• Protection from Deportation: Similar to Military PIP, this program provides relief from deportation and allows for work permit applications.

• Pathway to Permanent Residency: Eligible individuals can apply for legal permanent resident status through the adjustment of status process without leaving the U.S. This approach avoids the risks associated with consular processing abroad, such as triggering the unlawful presence bars.

• Promoting Family Unity: The program helps prevent unnecessary family separations, ensuring stability and continuity for U.S. citizen families.