Humanitarian Parole: Qualifications, Policy Updates, and Legal Protections

Humanitarian Parole & Qualifications

Humanitarian parole is a temporary authorization that permits an individual to enter the United States for compelling humanitarian reasons. These are for individuals who oftentimes do not qualify for a visa or any other form of immigration benefits. Each situation varies; however, the following reasons explain why a petitioner considers their particular situation urgent: 

• The individual is in immediate need of medical treatment
• The individual has a family member who is approaching the end of their life
• Attending a funeral
• Aiding in a national disaster relief effort

An individual can apply for humanitarian parole in the United States by completing the following requirements:

• Form I-131
• Form I-134
• Gather supporting documentation
• Paying the filing fee and filing the application

Form I-131 is the travel document application where applicants must provide accurate information and answer a series of questions. The second form applicants must complete is Form I-134, also known as the Declaration of Financial Support. The applicant uses this to showcase that they can financially support themselves throughout their time in the United States. If an applicant cannot acquire the means to support themselves during their stay, they have the option to apply for a financial sponsor. Additionally, applicants must provide supporting documentation such as

• Medical reports
• Death certificates
• Proof of family relationship

For Form I-131 applicants, the application fee is $630, while there is no fee for Form I-134.

Policy Updates

On May 30, 2025, the Trump administration received an emergency request to terminate the humanitarian parole status of individuals participating in the CHNV sponsorship program. This allows the government to begin deportation proceedings against individuals sponsored through the program.

What to Do If Your Case Is Not Approved

If the Parole and Humanitarian Assistance Branch does not approve an individual’s application for a humanitarian parole program, the individual can submit a new application. Applicants who are looking to do this should consider two factors:

1. Present new facts to increase the chances of approval
2. Paying a new filing fee

Legal Protections for Permanent Resident Status

Parolees who have adjusted their humanitarian parole status to permanent resident status are entitled to specific benefits associated with this adjustment. These include, but are not limited to, the following:

1. A parolee can file an immigrant petition on behalf of a relative abroad
2. Parolees with this adjustment can travel abroad
3. Lastly, parolees are eligible for citizenship five years from the date they arrive in the United States as parolees.

How KAASS LAW Can Help

At KAASS LAW, we understand the urgency of humanitarian parole requests. Whether you are applying for medical, family, or other life-altering circumstances, our experienced immigration attorneys can assist you through every step. Contact KAASS LAW for a confidential confirmation today.