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Adjustment of Immigration Status for Military Family Members Without Leaving the United States

The military Parole in Place (PIP) program is designed to benefit certain family members of U.S. military service members. Eligible family members include spouses, parents, and children of individuals who:

  • They are on active duty in the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, or Coast Guard.
  • They are part of the selected reservation or are on the reservation list.
  • Have previously served on active duty or in the selected reserve or reserve list, and have not been dishonorably discharged.

It is important that each case be reviewed by an immigration specialist, as individuals with criminal records or other serious adverse factors are less likely to be eligible.

What is Parole in Place (PIP)?

PIP allows family members of military service members who entered the country illegally to legally stay and work in the United States. This benefit is crucial because people who have entered illegally are generally not able to apply for permanent residency from within the country. With PIP, beneficiaries can apply for a green card (permanent residency) without having to leave the U.S.

Benefits of Parole in Place (PIP)

PIP beneficiaries are entitled to:

  • Avoid inadmissibility penalties for unlawful presence, such as a three-year ban for unlawful stays of more than 180 days or a ten-year ban for stays of more than one year.
  • Stay and work legally in the United States with employment authorization.
  • Apply for adjustment of status to permanent residence from within the country.

PIP is valid for one year and can be renewed indefinitely. Each renewal requires a new application. Recipients receive a Form I-94, which serves as proof of legal entry and is required to apply for a work permit or adjust immigration status.

Application process

  1. Application: Immigration will send a receipt confirming that the application is being processed.
  2. Appointment for fingerprints: The applicant must attend an appointment for fingerprints, photo and signature, used for a background check.
  3. Appointment for I-94: Once the application is processed, immigration will issue the I-94 form, which is essential for applying for residency.
  4. Local Office Dependency: Processing times vary depending on the local immigration office handling the case.

Recommendation
Applicants are advised to consult with an experienced immigration advisor to fully understand the process and implications of applying for military PIP.

Source: Citizenship for Military Family Members

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