Latest Updates on Parole in Place (Keeping Families Together) for Spouses and Stepchildren of U.S. Citizens
In June 2024, the Biden administration introduced the program Keeping Families Together Temporary Permit to Stay (KFT PIP)This process was intended to benefit spouses and stepchildren of U.S. citizens, allowing them to adjust their immigration status without leaving the country and thus avoiding family separation. The program went into effect on August 19, and USCIS began processing applications immediately.
However, On November 7, 2024, a federal judge in Texas ruled against the program following a lawsuit filed by Texas and 15 other states. The court found the KFT PIP program to be unlawful, nullifying its implementation. In his final judgment, the judge stated:
“The Court finds that Defendants lack legal authority under 8 U.S.C. § 1182(d)(5)(A) to grant ‘in-place’ parole to aliens, as set forth in the agency’s final action published at 89 Fed. Reg. 67,459 (August 20, 2024). This agency action is therefore vacated and vacated.”
Impact of the Decision
As a result of this ruling, USCIS is unable to approve any KFT PIP applications. Applications received since August 19 remain on hold, but will not be processed until the Court allows. Applicants may still submit their applications, but should be aware that the $580 fee is non-refundable, even if the program is permanently terminated.
Future of the Program
The November 7 decision marks a major setback for the program, leaving thousands of families hoping to benefit from this process in uncertainty. The suspension of KFT PIP underscores the fragility of immigration policies in the face of legal challenges. Affected families now face a long wait while the litigation is resolved, and immigrant advocacy organizations are redoubling their efforts to protect their rights and keep families together.
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