The Application for Parole in Place for Certain Noncitizen Spouses and Stepchildren of U.S. Citizens, also known as Form I-131F, was part of the Biden administration’s efforts to help undocumented family members of U.S. citizens remain in the country lawfully. Introduced under the “Keeping Families Together” initiative, this program offered a legal lifeline for noncitizen spouses and stepchildren, but it was recently declared unlawful.
On November 8, 2024, a federal judge invalidated the Parole in Place (PIP) expansion, ending the availability of Form I-131F. Here’s a detailed breakdown of what Form I-131F was, who it helped, and how it functioned before the program’s termination.
Key Update: Termination of Form I-131F
Effective immediately, USCIS will no longer accept new Form I-131F applications. Additionally:
- All pending Form I-131F applications are no longer being processed.
- Any scheduled appointments for biometric or supporting document submissions have been canceled.
- Applicants arriving for canceled appointments will be turned away.
If you were in the middle of the process, consult Law and Visas for alternative pathways to resolve your immigration concerns.
What Was Form I-131F?
Form I-131F, officially titled the Application for Parole in Place for Certain Noncitizen Spouses and Stepchildren of U.S. Citizens, was an online-only form created by USCIS. The form allowed certain undocumented spouses and stepchildren of U.S. citizens to apply for a temporary status that granted them legal permission to remain in the U.S. while pursuing more permanent immigration solutions.
This program sought to prevent the separation of families while addressing humanitarian concerns.
Eligibility Requirements for Form I-131F
To qualify for Form I-131F, applicants needed to meet specific conditions:
1. Presence in the U.S. Without Lawful Admission or Parole
You needed to be present in the U.S. without a lawful entry or parole.
2. Continuous Physical Presence
- Spouses: You must have continuously resided in the U.S. since June 17, 2014.
- Stepchildren: You must have continuously resided in the U.S. since June 17, 2024.
3. Valid Relationship with a U.S. Citizen
- Spouses: Legally married to a U.S. citizen on or before June 17, 2024.
- Stepchildren: Your noncitizen parent was married to a U.S. citizen before your 18th birthday and on or before June 17, 2024.
4. No Significant Criminal History
Applicants could not have pending charges or convictions for serious crimes, including:
- Domestic violence or abuse.
- Firearms or drug-related offenses.
- Sexual exploitation.
Supporting Documents for Form I-131F
Applicants needed to provide extensive documentation to prove their eligibility:
1. Personal Information
This included:
- Full name, date of birth, and contact details.
- Alien Registration Number (if applicable).
- Biographical details (e.g., height, weight, race, and ethnicity).
2. Proof of Identity
Examples included:
- A valid passport or national ID.
- A driver’s license.
- A school ID card with a photo.
3. Proof of U.S. Citizenship of Spouse/Stepparent
Accepted documents:
- U.S. birth certificate.
- Certificate of naturalization or citizenship.
- U.S. passport.
4. Proof of Relationship
Examples included:
- Marriage certificates.
- Birth certificates show the relationship between the noncitizen child and their U.S. citizen stepparent.
5. Evidence of Continuous Physical Presence
This could include:
- Rent receipts, utility bills, or tax returns.
- Medical or school records.
- Religious or employment documentation.
6. Criminal History Documentation (if applicable)
Applicants with prior arrests or convictions had to submit:
- Certified court documents showing the case outcome.
- Evidence of dismissal or expungement, if applicable.
7. Additional Evidence (if applicable)
Applicants could include documentation demonstrating humanitarian reasons for their request.
Filing Process for Form I-131F
Form I-131F was filed exclusively online through the USCIS website. Each applicant was required to create a myUSCIS account and file a separate form, even for family members applying under the same household.
Cost of Form I-131F
The filing fee for Form I-131F was $580, and fee waivers were not available.
Why Was Form I-131F Significant?
Form I-131F provided a much-needed option for undocumented family members of U.S. citizens to remain in the country legally, avoiding deportation and maintaining family unity. The program was especially vital for mixed-status families navigating the complexities of U.S. immigration law.
What’s Next?
With Form I-131F no longer available, families seeking relief may need to explore other immigration options. At Law and Visas, we’re here to help you navigate this transition and identify potential solutions tailored to your unique circumstances.
- We’ll assess your situation to find alternative immigration pathways.
- We’ll assist with new applications and ensure your documentation is complete and accurate.
- We’ll provide ongoing support to help you keep your family together.
How Law and Visas Can Help?
At Law and Visas, our team of expert immigration consultants is here to make your travel to the US straightforward and successful. Whether you’re applying for a Green Card, Visitor Visa, or Study Visa, we handle every step from preparing your application to gathering the required documents.
Our immigration Consultants and Lawyers ensure that your application meets the highest standards, with no details missed. We’ll also keep you informed throughout the process and coordinate with the immigration office or embassy on your behalf.
Law and Visas has a strong record of helping clients secure the visas/permits they need in the US. Call us today at +234 812 5505 986 to learn how we can assist you.
