How Can I Apply for Humanitarian Parole in the United States?

The United States offers temporary entry or stay through humanitarian parole, an important and discretionary relief option for individuals facing urgent humanitarian crises or compelling public benefit needs. To better understand eligibility requirements, essential documentation, and how to apply for humanitarian parole, continue reading and speak with a Wisconsin immigration attorney today.

What is Humanitarian Parole?

Humanitarian Parole is a discretionary authority granted by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) that allows an individual who may be otherwise inadmissible to temporarily enter or remain in the United States for a compelling emergency, humanitarian reasons, or a significant public benefit. It is not an immigration status and does not lead directly to lawful permanent residence.

This is typically used in urgent circumstances where an individual is facing hardship from a family situation, a natural disaster, or needs emergency medical attention that cannot be obtained in their home country. Parole is granted on a case-by-case basis, strictly for a limited period, and only when the request is deemed necessary. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) determines whether the individual’s presence in the U.S. is warranted.

Who is Eligible?

Eligibility for humanitarian parole is defined and assessed on a case-by-case basis by USCIS. Even an individual who is otherwise inadmissible to the United States may be considered if there is a compelling, urgent reason for their temporary entry or stay. These reasons typically fall into two main categories: humanitarian reasons or a significant public benefit.

Humanitarian reasons often involve urgent medical needs where treatment is unavailable in the home country, or situations of imminent danger, severe illness, or a crisis like a natural disaster or persecution. Significant public benefit may relate to assisting law enforcement or participating in a specific government proceeding. The applicant must demonstrate that their situation is truly urgent and that they cannot obtain necessary relief through standard visa processes. Having a U.S. sponsor or relative is helpful but does not guarantee eligibility.

How Can I Apply for Humanitarian Parole in the U.S.?

To apply for humanitarian parole, the applicant must file Form I-131, the Application for Travel Document, and select “Humanitarian Parole” as the reason for the application.

This form must be submitted to the USCIS along with a detailed, written statement explaining the urgent humanitarian or significant public benefit reasons for the request. This statement is the most important part of the application, as it must demonstrate the emergency and the inability to obtain relief through standard visa processes.

The application must include extensive supporting evidence, such as medical records, death certificates, affidavits, proof of financial support from the sponsor, and any documentation verifying the dire circumstances in the home country. A separate fee is required for each applicant, unless a fee waiver is requested. The USCIS reviews the application on a case-by-case, discretionary basis, and there is no formal appeal process if the request is denied, though applicants may submit a new request with additional evidence.