The Parole in Place (PIP) program, also referred to as the “Keeping Families Together” initiative, has recently been terminated following a federal court decision. The program, launched by the Biden administration in August 2024, aimed to allow undocumented spouses and stepchildren of U.S. citizens to remain in the country without fear of deportation while seeking lawful permanent residency. It was designed to help families avoid prolonged separation during the immigration process while helping those that could not achieve status otherwise.
However, on November 7, 2024, a federal judge in Texas ruled the program unlawful. The Court stated that it lacked statutory authority and cited concerns about the potential economic burden on states. As a result, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has stopped accepting or processing applications for the program, canceled pending appointments, and announced it would provide further guidance regarding application fees and next steps.
Of course, this decision has left many immigrant families uncertain about their future, as they may now need to pursue other pathways to legal status. The Biden administration is expected to appeal the ruling, but the resolution may take months or even years through the appellate process.
For individuals affected by this change, consulting with an experienced immigration attorney at Sherris Legal P.A. is highly recommended to explore alternative legal options.
