New Online Form for Spouses and Stepchildren of US Citizens Under the New Program Called “Keeping Families Together.”
From August 19, 2024, USCIS will begin accepting requests for parole using a new electronic form, Form I-131F, Application for Parole in Place for Certain Noncitizen Spouses and Stepchildren of U.S. Citizens. This new form is for those who are applying for parole in place under the Keeping Families Together initiative. Be it adults or minors, Form I-131F must be filed online for each individual and remember this form will only be available online. No paper version of this form will be accepted.
What You Need to Know About Form I-131F
USCIS will not accept requests for parole in place using any other form, and requests should not be submitted before August 19, 2024. Once available, Form I-131F will be the exclusive method for noncitizen spouses and stepchildren of U.S. citizens to request temporary parole. This electronic filing process ensures a streamlined and modern approach to keeping families together.
You can check out the Filing Guide for Form I-131F for detailed information on going through the online filing process.
Who Can File Form I-131F?
To file Form I-131F, you must meet specific eligibility criteria:
- Noncitizen spouses must have been continuously present in the U.S. since June 17, 2014.
- Noncitizen stepchildren must have been continuously present in the U.S. since June 17, 2024.
- You must have a legally valid marriage to a U.S. citizen (for spouses) or have had a parent married to a U.S. citizen before your 18th birthday (for stepchildren).
- Applicants must have no disqualifying criminal history and pose no threat to national security or public safety.
Even if you meet these criteria, parole is granted at the discretion of USCIS. The decision will depend on your specific circumstances.
Creating a USCIS Online Account
Since the process is entirely online, each requestor must have a USCIS online account to file Form I-131F. This includes minors, who will need their own account separate from their parents. If you don’t have an account, instructions on how to create one are available on the USCIS website.
Preparing for the Filing Process
Before you file Form I-131F, make sure to have the following documents and information ready:
- Evidence of your identity (e.g., passport, driver’s license).
- Evidence of your spouse/stepparent’s U.S. citizenship (e.g., U.S. birth certificate, passport, or naturalization certificate).
- Proof of marriage or relationship (e.g., marriage certificate, birth certificate).
- Evidence of continuous physical presence in the U.S. since the required dates.
- If applicable, information regarding any criminal charges and their outcomes.
The Final Word
This new process helps families stay together in the U.S. by making sure they have the right documents. Knowing the rules and staying informed is important for a smooth application.
With the rollout of Form I-131F, it’s important to stay vigilant against immigration scams. Beware of government impersonators, and use only the official USCIS website to submit your application.
For updates, visit the Keeping Families Together page on the USCIS website or check Imagility’s blog.
Related Resource on the New Immigration Process
Promoting Unity and Stability for Families: DHS’s New Immigration Process
