Humanitarian parole is an emergency safety net for immigrants in need. It isn’t a green card or a path to permanent status, but it can be lifesaving.
Keep reading to know what it really means and who actually qualifies for it in 2025.
So, what is humanitarian parole?
Humanitarian parole lets people who can’t get a visa enter or remain in the U.S. for a short time when there’s an urgent humanitarian need or a public benefit.
Applying for humanitarian parole is basically asking DHS to make an exception for you because the situation can’t wait.
It’s temporary, discretionary, and USCIS reviews it case by case.
What’s happening in 2025?
2025 has been chaotic for parole programs. Here’s the latest:
- DHS started terminating the CHNV parole processes (Cuba, Haiti, Nicaragua, Venezuela).
- Some courts paused the terminations, while others didn’t.
- Parolees received mixed decisions, had work permits revoked, and received new notices.
- And then more litigation followed.
So, if you or your family came in under a mass parole program, don’t assume you’re safe.
Check your myUSCIS account. Monitor your mail, and be in constant communication with your lawyer.
Meanwhile, individualized humanitarian parole requests filed with Form I-131 are still moving, but outcomes shift depending on DHS priorities.
Who can get humanitarian parole?
You need to show one of two things:
- An urgent humanitarian needThink medical emergencies, life-threatening situations, or family crises.
- A significant public benefitWhen you’re a key witness to a crime, or when there’s a government need.
You also need to explain why no other visa option works for you, because Humanitarian parole applies only to emergencies.
How to Apply
Here’s what the process looks like:
- Make sure parole is the only path.
If a visa is possible, that’s usually the best option.
- File Form I-131.
This is the main application for humanitarian parole. Add a detailed explanation of your emergency and all supporting evidence.
- Add a financial sponsor.
Form I-134 isn’t always required, but it can be very helpful.
- Wait for the decision.
If approved, you’ll get to know how long your parole is valid and what conditions apply.
Parole grants are usually short, sometimes months, sometimes a couple of years, and they can be revoked.
What about work authorization?
Parole doesn’t automatically give you the right to work. You need to file Form I-765 for an EAD.
You should also know that some parole programs allow it, while some limit it.
How long does processing take?
There’s no fixed timeline. Some people wait months, while others get decisions faster because they applied with strong emergency evidence and requested expedited review.
If your situation is urgent, request an expedite. But back it up with extensive proof, such as medical letters, police reports, and official documents.
What to Keep in Mind
- Parole is revocable
Even after approval, DHS can pull it back.
Changes in your case, criminal issues, or policy shifts can affect your application.
- No automatic path to a green card
Parole doesn’t become permanent by staying longer.
If you want a green card, you’ll need eligibility through another immigration category.
Tips for families and applicants
- Gather extensive evidence.
- Use a sponsor letter and Form I-134 to show financial stability.
- Keep records of everything you submit and every notice you receive.
- Track your myUSCIS updates
- Don’t wait until it’s too late to call a lawyer.
What if your parole gets terminated?
Here’s what you should do right away:
- Call an immigration attorney. Some notices come with tight deadlines, so you must act immediately.
- Know your options. Maybe asylum, TPS, or adjustment. You need a lawyer to review your history.
- Save proof of your U.S. ties. Think leases, pay stubs, tax papers, and community letters. These can help with prosecutorial discretion or future relief.
Seek Legal Help at ImmigrationQuestion.com
ImmigrationQuestion.com is a networking platform that allows you to meet with immigration lawyers. Our attorney directory consists of 100+ licensed U.S. immigration attorneys who can help with your case.
We also provide resources for immigrants and visa applicants to stay informed about the latest in U.S. immigration. These resources include our daily news updates, educational blogs, and weekly webinars.
Do you have an immigration question? Ask FREE on ImmigrationQuestion.com and get answers from licensed immigration attorneys.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is humanitarian parole?
It’s a request for temporary permission to enter or stay in the U.S. for urgent humanitarian reasons or a significant public benefit when no visa is available.
Who decides if I get parole?
USCIS and DHS review each case. It’s discretionary, and there’s no guaranteed approval.
Can I work if I get humanitarian parole?
You must file Form I-765 to request employment authorization. If approved, you can work legally.
How long does humanitarian parole last?
It varies, usually months to a few years, and DHS may revoke it at any time.
Who is eligible for humanitarian parole?
People with urgent humanitarian needs, such as medical emergencies or life-threatening family situations. It is also available to those who provide significant public benefits, such as critical witnesses, urgent public health roles, and individuals with no other visa options.
How do I apply?
File Form I-131 with detailed evidence explaining the urgency or public benefit. You may also request expedited processing for emergencies.
Can humanitarian parole lead to a green card?
Parole doesn’t grant permanent status. You need another pathway, like family petitions, asylum, or adjustment of status.
What should I do if my parole is terminated?
Contact an immigration attorney immediately. Explore alternative relief options, preserve proof of U.S. ties, and respond quickly to any deadlines.
How has 2025 affected parole programs?
Mass parole programs (like CHNV) faced termination notices, revoked work authorization, and court litigation. Individualized parole requests are still being processed, but priorities and outcomes can change with DHS policy.
