What is re-parole and who can apply for it?
Starting from February 27, 2024, the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) allows Ukrainians who arrived in the U.S. after February 11, 2022, to apply for a humanitarian parole extension. This option allows them to stay in the country for an additional two years, including Ukrainian family members who have no other grounds to stay in the U.S. This is important news for many, as it allows individuals who are under temporary humanitarian protection and have no other visa category to extend their lawful stay.
In this article, we will explore what re-parole is, how to apply, who is eligible for the extension, and what documents will be required for a successful application. It's important to understand that re-parole is not an automatic process, and each applicant must submit a separate application, providing all necessary documents and paying the required fees.
How to apply for a humanitarian parole extension?
You can apply for a humanitarian parole extension online or by mailing the necessary documents. Here are the key steps to submit your application:
- Document gathering: First, gather all necessary documents, including copies of your passport, proof of your stay in the U.S. after February 11, 2022, and any other materials that support your case. Family members will need to provide documents proving the family relationship.
- Form completion: The primary form for the application is form I-131, which must be completed correctly. This is the form for applying for registration or parole extension. You will also need to complete form I-765 if you wish to obtain work authorization in the U.S.
- Submitting the application: After completing the forms, submit them to USCIS either online or by mail, depending on your preferred submission method. If applying online, the process may be faster, but it is important to ensure that all documents are filled out correctly and attached.
- Biometrics: If you are requested for a biometrics appointment, you will need to attend it at a local USCIS center. This typically involves fingerprinting, photographs, and other data collection.
The application fee is $630. If you have a low income, you can submit an additional form to request a fee waiver or reduction. This is important for those who may experience financial difficulties.
Who can apply for re-parole?
Individuals eligible for re-parole include:
- Ukrainians who arrived in the U.S. after February 11, 2022: All Ukrainian citizens who arrived in the U.S. after this date and are legally present in the country can apply for a humanitarian parole extension.
- Family members of Ukrainians with humanitarian parole: There is also the option to apply for family members who do not have other grounds to stay in the U.S. but wish to remain with their family.
- Individuals without other grounds for legal stay: If someone does not have another visa category or status in the U.S., re-parole may be the only option to extend their lawful stay.
If you are unsure whether you meet the requirements for re-parole, we recommend seeking consultation from our attorneys. They will help assess your situation and prepare the necessary documents.
Questions and Answers
Question
What is re-parole and how does it work for Ukrainian citizens?
Answer
Re-parole is the process of extending humanitarian parole, which allows Ukrainian citizens who arrived after February 11, 2022, to stay in the U.S. for another two years. This allows family members to stay in the country, even if they do not have other grounds for lawful stay.
Question
How do I apply for a humanitarian parole extension?
Answer
You can apply online or by mail by completing the appropriate forms (I-131 and I-765) and providing necessary documents, such as a copy of your passport, birth certificates of family members, and other proof of your stay in the U.S.
Question
What documents are needed for the application?
Answer
You will need to provide copies of your passport, documents proving your family relationships, as well as any other documents supporting your situation. If needed, documents confirming your low income for a fee waiver will also be required.
How can we help?
Legal consultation: Our attorneys are ready to provide qualified consultation regarding your right to extend humanitarian parole and the application process.
Document preparation: We will help you gather and prepare all the necessary documents for your application, including checking the accuracy of form completion and ensuring USCIS requirements are met.
Support at all stages: We will guide you throughout the entire application process, answering your questions and resolving any difficulties.
The process of extending humanitarian parole through re-parole is an important opportunity for Ukrainians who arrived in the U.S. after February 11, 2022. If you are eligible for parole extension, don't waste time and apply as soon as possible. Our attorneys are ready to assist you at every stage of the process!
