According to the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), Afghan allies who entered the United States through the humanitarian parole program in the past two years will have the opportunity to reapply for the program in June 2023. The reapplication process is currently being developed as part of Enduring Welcome, formerly known as Operation Allies Welcome. Afghan evacuees will have the choice to apply online or submit paper-based applications. As of now, if individuals are approved, they will continue to have work authorization and protection from deportation.

Many Afghan evacuees are nearing the end of their parole protections, with some facing the expiration as early as summer 2023. While the reapplication option offers temporary relief, it is an additional interim measure. Despite being introduced in Congress in August 2022, the Afghan Adjustment Act, still has not been passed. This Act aims to expand eligibility for special immigrant visas, providing a pathway to citizenship for qualifying Afghans who arrived in the U.S. after the fall of Afghanistan.

DHS emphasized that the Biden administration is committed to safeguarding these Afghan allies and urges Congress to address the issue. While awaiting updates on immigration reform, the administration continues to utilize parole authority to facilitate legal migration. However, comprehensive reform from Congress is necessary to address ongoing legal migration challenges. Parole only provides a temporary solution. It is limited to a case-by-case basis for a duration of two years. DHS advises Afghan nationals to explore and pursue other options for legal migration status to attain a more permanent solution.

For inquiries regarding legal migration status options or any immigration-related matters, please contact ILBSG. Our team of experienced attorneys provides clients with tailored advice based on their specific circumstances.