Military Parole in Place (PIP) Program

The military parole in place (PIP) program is a relatively new option for undocumented family members of the United States military to seek a Green Card while remaining in the country. This program is valuable in that it can prevent the potential deportation and removal of a servicemember’s loved one and even allow loved ones to legally earn their own income.

The PIP program is a valuable opportunity, but it is not available to everyone. The good news is that you do not have to determine if this option is available to you on your own. A skilled immigration attorney could advise you on whether you or a loved one are eligible. Then, our legal team could help you collect the necessary documentation to apply for PIP as soon as possible.

Understanding Military PIP

The federal government adopted this program after identifying the stress and challenges that are placed on a member of the military that has loved ones that are undocumented immigrants. Most of the time, entering the country illegally will make it impossible for a person to become a lawful permanent resident. PIP is an exception to this general rule, allowing undocumented family members of military service members to continue on their path to lawful permanent residency while remaining in the country.

The PIP Program Offers Many Protections

When a family member is accepted into PIP, they are immediately protected in a number of important ways. First and foremost, they may remain in the United States without fear of deportation or removal. Not only can the applicant stay in the country, but they could also be allowed to lawfully work while they await their Green Card.

Another important aspect of PIP is the chance for an adjustment of status. Often, a person in the country without legal status must leave before they can petition for a Green Card. That is not the case for anyone granted protection under this program. Instead, they are allowed to use a process known as adjustment of status. This approach lets them apply for a Green Card while remaining in the United States. An attorney could offer more information about the parole in place program and the protections it offers military families.

PIP Eligibility Requirements

There are eligibility requirements under PIP, and not every family member will qualify. First and foremost, to qualify for PIP, an applicant must be sponsored by a current or former military member who is also a United States citizen. This includes individuals who are on active duty in the armed forces, serve in the Selected or Ready Reserve, or have previously served in the U.S. military.

Only certain family members will qualify even when the sponsoring family member qualifies. PIP typically applies to spouses, parents, and unmarried children under the age of 21. It is important to note that someone who may otherwise qualify for PIP could still be denied if they are inadmissible because of a criminal record or previous violations of immigration law.

It might not be immediately clear if a spouse or other loved one will qualify under this program. A dedicated immigration attorney could get to know a potential applicant and their circumstances to determine whether applying for the military parole in place program is the best immigration option.

Meet With an Attorney About the Military Parole in Place (PIP) Program

If you or someone you love qualifies for the military parole in place program, speak with an attorney as soon as possible to start the process of securing these legal protections. Acceptance is never guaranteed, but this option might provide a life-changing opportunity to remain in the country while continuing your path to citizenship. Call Solano Law Firm today.