Humanitarian parole allows certain individuals to enter the United States for a temporary period due to an extremely compelling emergency or in cases of significant public benefit. This extraordinary measure is granted at the discretion of the Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) on a case-by-case basis. Humanitarian Parole can only be granted by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). Unless the individual has an emergency or compelling situation, it is generally required that the applicant first pursue other legal means of entering the United States prior to seeking humanitarian parole. All prior visa applications and the decisions on those visa applications should be documented. Humanitarian parole is available exclusively for individuals outside of the United States and is granted for the time period covering the emergency situation, with a time limit of one year. Humanitarian parolees can apply to extend their period of parole if necessary, this request is referred to as “re-parole.”
An applicant for Humanitarian Parole must file an application with USCIS, which includes various forms including an affidavit of support. Therefore, a sponsor who is a lawful permanent resident or U.S. citizen is a requirement. Additionally, it is very important that the compelling or emergent situation leading to the request for parole be thoroughly documented. For example, for urgent medical situations, a letter from doctor explaining the situation and need for treatment in the United States, is essential. Moreover, a Parole applicant must provide evidence that they can cover any costs associated with their stay in the United States. If this extraordinary benefit is granted, the individual will receive an approval notice from USCIS and will then need to visit a U.S. Consulate to finalize their permission to enter the United States on parole. Parole is available for individuals who are otherwise inadmissible to the United States, but it must be illustrated why a waiver of inadmissibility is not available or was denied. A copy of any prior denials from USCIS should be included with the parole application.