Frequently Asked Questions About Humanitarian Parole
Where can I find the law about humanitarian parole?
The legal foundation for Humanitarian Parole comes from the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA). See INA 212(d)(5)(A). INA 212 states that the Attorney General (this authority was transferred to the Secretary of DHS) in his discretion may parole into the United States temporarily under such conditions as he may prescribe only on a case-by-case basis for urgent humanitarian reasons or significant public benefit.
Where do I file a request for humanitarian parole?
Department of Homeland Security
USCIS
Attn: Chief, International Operations Division
20 Massachusetts Avenue, NW Suite 3300
Washington, DC 20529-2100
How long does it take to adjudicate an application?
Parole applications are generally adjudicated within 90-120 business days.
How can I find out the status of my application?
To check the status of your application, please contact the Humanitarian Assistance Branch, Washington, D.C. directly in writing. Please provide them with specific information about your application, such as the Case number of the Humanitarian Parole application, name and date of birth of the Beneficiary, the date of application, and a brief explanation of the emergent reasons for seeking Humanitarian Parole.
Can Humanitarian Parole applications be adjudicated for individuals currently in the United States?
Request for humanitarian parole can only be accepted for individuals who are currently outside of the United States. (See our Web page on Advance Parole)
How will I be notified if my request is approved?
If you are the petitioner, you will receive a written notice once your application has been adjudicated.
How long are Humanitarian Paroles approved for?
Humanitarian paroles are granted for a period of time to coincide with the duration of the emergency or humanitarian situation that forms the basis for the request. There is a maximum time limit of 1 year.
Who can file an application for humanitarian parole?
Anyone can file an application for humanitarian parole to include the prospective parolee, a sponsoring relative, an attorney (G-28 must be included), or any other interested individual or organization.
What can I do if my case is not approved?
The denial of a request for humanitarian parole is a discretionary determination based upon a comprehensive review of all of the circumstances in each case, as presented in the documentation. There is no statutory provision for appeal. However, if there are significant new facts that are relevant to your application for Humanitarian Parole, you may submit a new I-131 application for Humanitarian Parole to the above address with a new fee and supporting documentation.
Where can I receive forms for filing a Humanitarian Parole?
USCIS Form I-131 Application for Travel Document and I-134 Affidavit of Support can be accessed online, requested to be received by mail online, ordered by calling USCIS Forms request line at 1 (800) 870-3676 or by submitting a request through the forms by mail system. After receiving Forms I-131 and I-134, read them carefully and note the documentation that must be submitted. Detailed information is provided in the instructions for Forms I-131 and I-134.
