Humanitarian parole is a temporary entry into the United States (U.S) granted by the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) for individuals who are otherwise ineligible for entry into the U.S. It is not a visa, but can be a lifeline for individuals who are in life-threatening situations, have medical needs, or need to be in the U.S. for family purposes.
A parole status is only granted for a limited period of time, typically, up to one year. Although individuals can apply for statuses or other immigration benefits while in the U.S on humanitarian parole, it does not provide a pathway to citizenship, permanent residency or work authorization.
Who can apply for parole?
Humanitarian parole can be used in a variety of situations, some of the most common ways to be eligible for humanitarian parole include:
1- Medical Emergencies: If an individual is in need of medical treatment that is not available in their home country, they may be eligible for parole.
2-Family Reunification: In cases where families are separated due to humanitarian crises (such as natural disasters or conflict), parole may be authorized to temporarily reunite families in the U.S.
3-Witnesses and Victims of Crime: Individuals may also be eligible for parole if they have been victims of certain crimes or who are providing testimony for civil or criminal cases.
4-Refugees or Victims of Violence: To escape imminent harm, individuals who are fleeing dangerous situations such as those facing cultural, political or religious threats may be eligible for parole.
5-Special Circumstances: This could include an individual who is in need of parole due to the a specific event or activity with notable public benefit such as humanitarian work, assisting in investigations or diplomacy and medical procedures.
Benefits of Humanitarian Parole
Despite parole only being available for a temporary period, it does have certain benefits for individuals in dangerous and desperate situations. Some of the benefits include:
Medical Access: Parole provides an opportunity for individuals who need urgent medical care that might not be available in their home country.
Protection from Imminent Harm: Parole can help individuals escape from life threatening or dangerous situations creating a sanctuary in the U.S.
The Process of Applying For Parole
To apply for Humanitarian Parole, an individual must submit Form I-131 (application for travel document) and Form I-134 (declaration of financial support) to USCIS along with a supporting statement that outlines the dire and urgent need for entry into the U.S.
The application should include:
1-Detailed Explanation: A thorough explanation of why parole is being requested, including the nature of the emergency or humanitarian process.
2-Supporting Documentation: This may include medical records, news reports, affidavits from individuals who can attest to the applicant’s circumstances, or any other evidence that supports the claim of urgent humanitarian need.
It can take several months and even years for USCIS to respond to a humanitarian parole application. If the request is urgent, then one should consider filing an expedite request.
Humanitarian parole is an opportunity for individuals to obtain entry into the U.S when in a dire situation, which is approved if it contains eligible factors. Parole is considered on a case-by-case basis. It will be granted if all the evidence concludes that the individual is in an urgent situation and if there are urgent humanitarian or significant public benefit reasons for the beneficiary to be in the United States.
At AVA Global, we have helped many, many clients file for Humanitarian Parole. If you would like to discuss whether Humanitarian is right for you or a loved one, our experienced immigration law team is here to assist. You may register for a consultation by calling 970-680-1223 or scheduling online. Our U.S. immigration attorneys are licensed to practice immigration law in all 50 states and at consulates and embassies all over the world.
**Please note this is not legal advice and engagement with this post does not create an attorney/client privilege. For specifically tailored legal advice, schedule a consultation.
Current as of February 20, 2025