When a situation arises in which a foreign national needs to temporarily enter the United States because of a humanitarian emergency, they may be able to obtain a humanitarian parole visa. This visa is designed to accommodate true emergencies of a humanitarian nature. Please continue reading to learn how to apply for this program and how a knowledgeable Essex County Immigration Attorney can help you navigate all the intricacies of this complex process.
What is a Humanitarian Parole Visa?
Humanitarian parole grants temporary permission to enter the United States for urgent humanitarian reasons or significant public benefit. U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) is responsible for granting humanitarian parole to foreign nationals who have compelling reasons for entering the U.S. for a limited period, but who do not qualify for a visa or other immigration benefits.
The government has broad discretionary power to interpret who is eligible for a humanitarian parole visa. As such, they will examine several factors including, the level of suffering experienced if parole is not granted, the time pressure, and the effect a rejection may have on the applicant’s well-being to determine whether they should approve a request. A petitioner’s situation may qualify as an urgent matter if it involves a strict timeline. For instance, if the petitioner is in dire need of medical treatment or if they have a loved one who is nearing the end of their life. Nevertheless, it’s important to note that there are country-specific humanitarian parole program requirements.
How Do I Apply?
To apply for humanitarian parole, you will need to complete Form I-131, Application for Travel Document, and Form I-134 Affidavit of Support. You must provide accurate and complete information, including the reasoning for this emergency request and any supporting documents. Form 1-134 is used to demonstrate applicants can financially support themselves during their stay in the U.S. They can also choose to enlist a financial sponsor to file Form I-134 on their behalf. However, for those applying through a country-specific program, financial sponsors are required to file Form I-134A instead.
Depending on the reasoning for your request, you will need to submit support documents such as medical reports, death certificates, or proof of family relationship. By providing clear documentation to support your request, you will maximize your chances of approval. It’s also important to keep in mind you will have to pay a $630 fee to file Form I-131. There is no application fee for Form I-134. After you have completed these forms and collected all the necessary documents, you can submit your application.
Given the complexity and urgency of these requests, it’s in your best interest to contact a seasoned immigration attorney from the Law Offices of Christopher T. Howell, Esq., who can guide you through this complex process. Improper filing can result in necessary delays and often in an outright denial. Connect with our legal team today to improve your chances of an approved humanitarian parole application.
