Author:

Alison Moodie

Reviewed By:

Hasalyn Modine

**Updated**

July 25, 2025

# Parole in Place (PIP) for Military Families, Explained

Learn how to apply for immigration parole as the immediate relative of a U.S. citizen military member

## What is Parole in Place (PIP)?

Parole in Place (PIP) is a form of [immigration parole](https://www.boundless.com/immigration-resources/what-is-immigration-parole) that allows certain undocumented family members of U.S. military personnel, veterans, and enlistees to stay in the United States legally. Similar to the [DACA](https://www.boundless.com/immigration-resources/what-is-daca) and [TPS](https://www.boundless.com/immigration-resources/temporary-protected-status) programs, it provides temporary legal status, [work authorization](https://www.boundless.com/immigration-resources/form-i766-ead-card), and protection from deportation.

###### Important:

This guide is for military families applying for Parole in Place (PIP). A federal judge [struck down](https://www.boundless.com/blog/federal-judge-strikes-down-parole-in-place/) the Biden administration’s expansion of PIP that would have included certain undocumented spouses and stepchildren of U.S. citizens.

## Who Is Eligible for PIP

- Spouses, widows/widowers, parents, or sons/daughters of:
  - Active-duty members of the U.S. armed forces
  - Individuals in the Selected Reserve of the Ready Reserve
  - Military veterans (living or deceased) who served in active duty or in the Selected Reserve of the Ready Reserve

###### Boundless Tip

For veterans, eligibility extends to family members as long as the veteran has not been dishonorably discharged.

## Cost of Parole in Place for Military Families

There is **no filing fee** for military families applying for PIP.

While there’s no fee, applicants must still complete and submit [Form I-131](https://www.boundless.com/immigration-resources/the-advance-parole-travel-document-explained), “Application for Travel Document” along with supporting evidence.

## How Long Is the PIP Processing Time?

The current processing time for parole in place for military families is 4 months, [according](https://egov.uscis.gov/processing-times/historic-pt) to the USCIS historic processing times page.

## How Long Does Parole in Place Last?

Parole in Place for military families is typically granted for one year of authorized stay in the U.S., but it can be extended or renewed depending on individual circumstances and the discretion of the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). This flexibility is important because the green card application process can take significant time, and PIP ensures that individuals are protected from deportation during this period. However, it’s meant to be a temporary solution and is designed to facilitate the process of obtaining a green card rather than a permanent status in itself.

## How to Apply for PIP

### For Military Families

1. **Prepare Documentation:**
   - [Proof of family relationship](https://www.boundless.com/immigration-resources/how-do-we-prove-our-marriage-is-real) (e.g. birth certificates, marriage certificates).
   - Proof of military service if a military member (e.g. DD Form 214 for veterans, military ID for active duty).
   - Evidence of physical presence in the United States, such as bank statements, utility bills, or rental agreements.
   - [Parole in Place personal statement](https://www.boundless.com/immigration-resources/parole-in-place-pip-for-military-families) explaining the circumstances and hardships faced due to potential separation from the military family member or U.S. citizen spouse.
2. **Complete Forms:**
   - [Form I-131](https://www.boundless.com/immigration-resources/the-advance-parole-travel-document-explained) (“Application for Travel Document”)
   - [Form I-765](https://www.boundless.com/immigration-resources/form-i765-work-permit) (“Application for Employment Authorization”)
3. **Submit Application:**
   - Submit the completed forms and supporting documents to the appropriate USCIS office.

## What Happens Next?

1. **Receipt Notice:** Once your application is received by USCIS, you will get a [Form I-797C](https://www.boundless.com/immigration-resources/i-797-notice-of-action-explained), “Notice of Action.”
2. **Biometrics Appointment:** USCIS may require you to attend a [biometrics appointment](https://www.boundless.com/immigration-resources/biometrics-appointment).
3. **Application Review:** After your biometrics, USCIS will begin the review process.
4. **Request for Evidence (RFE):** If USCIS needs more information, they will send you a [Request for Evidence](https://www.boundless.com/immigration-resources/what-is-a-request-for-evidence-rfe-and-what-should-i-do-about-it) (RFE).
5. **Decision Notice:** You will receive a decision notice based on the review of your application.
6. **Renewal of Parole in Place:** Renewal process is similar to the initial application.
7. **Adjustment of Status:** Eligible individuals may apply for [adjustment of status](https://www.boundless.com/immigration-resources/adjustment-status-process-explained) to become a lawful permanent resident of the United States.
8. **Possible Delays:** Processing times can vary, and there may be delays due to high application volumes or other factors.