How to Fill Out Form I-131 for Parole in Place

Form I-131, Application for Travel Document, is commonly used to request various travel documents from U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). One specific use of this form is to apply for Parole in Place (PIP), a form of humanitarian relief available to specific undocumented individuals who are immediate family members of U.S. military service members or veterans. Filling out Form I-131 accurately is crucial to ensure your application for Parole in Place is processed efficiently. 

Step-by-Step Instructions for Filling Out Form I-131

Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to complete Form I-131 for Parole in Place.

1. Obtain the Form

• Download Form I-131: Obtain the latest version of Form I-131 from the USCIS website. Ensure you are using the most current form version to avoid any issues with your application.

2. Complete the Basic Information

• Part 1: Information About You
  • Name: Enter your full legal name, including any aliases or previous names if applicable.
  • Address: Provide your current residential address. Ensure this is a reliable address where you can receive correspondence from USCIS.
  • Date of Birth: Enter your date of birth in the format requested (mm/dd/yyyy).
  • Country of Birth: Indicate the country where you were born.
  • Country of Citizenship/Nationality: State your current citizenship or nationality.

3. Specify the Purpose of the Application

• Part 2: Application Type
  • Item 1: Select the appropriate box for the purpose of your application. For Parole in Place, check the box for “Other” and write “Parole in Place” in the space provided. This indicates that you are applying for Parole in Place and not for one of the other types of travel documents.

4. Provide Details About Your Current Status

• Part 3: Processing Information
  • Item 3: Indicate the reason for requesting Parole in Place. Briefly explain your current immigration status and the basis for your eligibility, emphasizing your immediate family relationship with a U.S. military service member or veteran.

5. Document Your Eligibility

• Part 4: Information About Your Eligibility
  • Item 1: You may need to provide details about the U.S. military service member or veteran, including their name, service branch, and service status. Attach evidence, such as military service records or discharge papers, to support your application.
  • Item 2: Provide information about your relationship with the military service member or veteran. Include any supporting documents such as birth or marriage certificates.

6. Complete Additional Sections

• Part 5: Additional Information
  • Item 1: Include any additional information or explanations relevant to your application. If exceptional circumstances or additional details support your request for Parole in Place, provide this information here.

7. Sign and Date the Form

• Part 6: Signature
  • Signature: Sign and date the form in the spaces provided. The signature must be handwritten and should match the name you provided in Part 1.
  • Date: Enter the date you are signing the form. This should be the same date as your signature.

8. Prepare Supporting Documents

• Required Documents: Gather and prepare all necessary supporting documents. This includes proof of your relationship to the U.S. military service member or veteran, evidence of their military service, and any documents demonstrating your continuous presence in the U.S. Copies of these documents should be included with your application.

9. Review and Submit

• Review: Carefully review the entire form to ensure all sections are completed accurately, and all required supporting documents are included.
• Submit: Mail your completed Form I-131 and supporting documents to the USCIS service center designated for Parole in Place requests. Check the USCIS website or consult an immigration attorney to confirm the correct filing address.

Tips for a Successful Application

• Accuracy: Ensure all information is accurate and complete to avoid delays or denials.
• Documentation: Include clear and legible copies of all required documents. Missing or incomplete documentation can result in delays.
• Consultation: Consider seeking assistance from an immigration attorney to help navigate the process and ensure that your application meets all requirements.

Conclusion

Filling out Form I-131 for Parole in Place involves carefully completing each section, providing detailed information about your eligibility, and including all necessary supporting documents. Following these steps and ensuring that your application is thorough and accurate increases the likelihood of a successful outcome. Stay informed about any changes to USCIS procedures or requirements, and consult with a legal professional if needed to guide you through the process.