As of August 26, 2024, a federal judge has placed a temporary hold on the Parole in Place (PIP) program, also known as the Keeping Families Together initiative. This pause is set to extend until September 23, 2024, due to ongoing legal challenges, and it has raised concerns for many families relying on the program. Here’s what you need to know about the current situation, potential outcomes, and steps you can take to protect your case.
What Is the Parole in Place (PIP) Program?
The PIP program was designed to help keep military families together by allowing certain undocumented family members of U.S. citizens to remain in the United States without fear of deportation. It offers a path to legalize their stay, providing a sense of security and stability. However, recent legal actions have temporarily paused this program, creating uncertainty for applicants.
What’s Happening Now?
On August 26, the judge’s order temporarily paused all PIP approvals for at least 14 days. On September 4th, the judge extended the temporary block on the program’s implementation, meaning no new approvals will be granted until September 23, 2024, at the earliest. Despite this, USCIS is still accepting applications and moving forward with other steps in the process, such as fingerprinting appointments.
Key Takeaways:
- Applications are still being accepted.
- USCIS is continuing to schedule fingerprinting appointments.
- No approvals will be issued until after September 23, pending further developments.
Possible Outcomes for Your PIP Case
While the program is paused, several possible scenarios could unfold:
- Best-case scenario: After 14 days, the temporary hold is lifted, and PIP approvals resume as they did before.
- Extended pause: The 14-day hold could be extended, delaying decisions even further. *updated as of 9/11/24 <– this is where we are
- Program termination: The program could be permanently stopped. In this case, your best chance of approval would be to file your application as soon as possible before any final decisions are made.
- Worst-case scenario: USCIS could halt the program entirely and deny all pending applications, potentially without issuing refunds.
What Should You Do Next?
If you or a loved one is considering applying for PIP, now is the time to take action. Even though no approvals will be granted during the pause, it’s crucial to submit your application as soon as possible to secure your place in line if the program resumes.
Here are a few steps to prepare:
- Submit your PIP application now: The sooner you file, the better your chances if the program resumes.
- Gather necessary documents: Make sure you have all required paperwork in order to avoid delays in your application process.
- Seek legal advice: We strongly encourage you to consult with an experienced immigration attorney who can guide you through the application process and help protect your case.
We’re Here to Help
At McEntee Law Group, we understand the stress and uncertainty this pause may cause for military families. We’re here to support you every step of the way, helping you prepare and submit your PIP application to give you the best possible chance of success. If you have questions about the program or your specific case, reach out to us today.
Together, we’ll work to keep your family together and secure your status.
