The Biden administration started a new program that allows eligible unauthorized spouses and children of U.S. citizens the ability to apply for a green card without leaving the U.S. This program, called Keeping Families Together, began on August 19, 2024. To provide assistance, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) released a guide on how to file.
Effective as of August 19, 2024, a new electronic form, Form I-131F, Application for Parole in Place for Certain Noncitizen Spouses and Stepchildren of U.S. Citizens, can be used to apply. No other forms will be accepted. This form is available on the USCIS website as of August 19, 2024.
The Filing Guide for Form I-131F is also available on the Keeping Families Together website. The guide provides support for completing the application online. USCIS has also updated the Questions and Answers for the Keeping Families Together program. The Federal Register will also be updated soon.
Eligibility Criteria
Noncitizen spouses of U.S. citizens who meet the below requirements are eligible to apply.
- Present in the U.S. without parole or admission,
- Continuously present in the U.S. for a minimum of 10 years as of June 17, 2024, and throughout the date of filing the application for parole,
- Have a valid legal marriage to a U.S. citizen as of June 17, 2024,
- No disqualifying criminal history or other issues that may constitute a threat to public safety or national security, and
- Demonstrate, on a case-by-case basis, urgent humanitarian reasons or significant public benefit to be considered for a discretionary grant of parole in place.
Noncitizen stepchildren of U.S. citizens who meet the below requirements are eligible to apply.
- Unmarried and under 21 as of June 17, 2024,
- Present in the U.S. without admission or parole,
- Must be continuously physically present in the U.S. since at least June 17, 2024 through the date of filing the application for parole,
- Meet the statutory requirements of a stepchild of a U.S. citizen based on their parent’s legally valid marriage to a U.S. citizen on or prior to June 17, 2024, and prior to the child’s 18th birthday,
- No disqualifying criminal history or other issues that may constitute a threat to public safety or national security, and
- Meet other eligibility criteria to be considered grant of parole in place on a case-by-case basis for a significant public benefit or urgent humanitarian reasons.
More details will be available in the upcoming Federal Register notice.
Form I-131F can only be filed online. Each person, including minors, must submit their own application through their individual USCIS online account. There will be no paper option. Be cautious of immigration scams and only work with qualified attorneys or accredited representatives recognized by the Department of Justice. USCIS will never contact you through personal social media or ask for payment via phone or email.
If you have questions about the Keeping Families Together program or any other U.S. immigration-related issue, please contact us. Our team of experienced and thoughtful attorneys takes great care and works with our clients every step of the way.