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Clarification
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Posted on Oct 18 2011
I am writing in response to the article about the MLSC workshop on parole in place in Monday’s Tribune. Thank you for covering the event, meeting with people who attended, and reporting on information provided.
I think it is important to clarify one point about what you printed. You wrote: “Parole in place is also available for immediate relatives of U.S. citizens who need more time to change their immigration status, including obtaining green card.” MLSC did not make this statement. We believe it may be misleading.
While any person may apply for parole-in-place, USCIS has not provided any written policy or regulation indicating that it will act favorably on applications by immediate relatives of US citizens who need time to adjust their status. MLSC agrees with the assessment by the Tribune immigration columnists, Maya Kara and Bruce Mailman, that those with approved or pending I-130s or I-360s may possibly be able to get parole in place until they file for adjustment of status with their I-485; and those immediate relatives who have not yet filed any of the forms (such as the I-130 or I-360) will probably not get parole in place, unless there are other compelling, extenuating circumstances. The decision will be made by USCIS on a case-by-case basis. The situation could change, however, if Congressman Sablan is successful in his efforts to get parole in place for those protected by his pending legislation.
MLSC encourages all immediate relatives under U.S. law to use the existing channels for establishing their status (and getting their green cards) rather than relying on the temporary, discretionary option of parole in place. Thank you.
Jane Mack
Micronesian Legal Services Corp.
