USCIS Announces New Filing Guide to Support Family Unity
Starting August 19, 2024, USCIS will accept applications for the new Form I-131F, Application for Parole in Place. This form is specifically designed for noncitizen spouses and stepchildren of U.S. citizens. Form I-131F can only be submitted electronically, and it will not be available on the USCIS website until August 19. USCIS emphasizes that no other forms will be accepted under the Keeping Families Together initiative. Requests for parole in place under this program should not be submitted before the official launch date.
To assist applicants, USCIS has published a Filing Guide for Form I-131F on the Keeping Families Together webpage. This comprehensive guide is designed to help individuals navigate the online filing process. Additionally, USCIS has updated the Key Questions and Answers section on the same webpage. More details regarding the Keeping Families Together initiative will be published in an upcoming Federal Register notice.
- Important Filing Information:
- Form I-131F is exclusively available online.
- Each applicant, including minors, must submit a separate Form I-131F.
- Every applicant must create a personal USCIS online account, even minors.
- No paper version of this form exists; all submissions must be made online.
Stay Safe from Immigration Scams
USCIS warns against falling victim to immigration scams. If you need legal advice, ensure that the person assisting you is qualified. Only attorneys licensed in the U.S. or accredited representatives from Department of Justice-recognized organizations can provide legal counsel on immigration matters. Be cautious of anyone guaranteeing specific outcomes, as all applications are individually reviewed by USCIS.
Common Scams to Avoid:
- Impersonation of Government Officials:
- Scammers may pose as USCIS officers. Remember, USCIS will only contact you through official government channels and never through personal social media.
- Fake Websites:
- Be wary of websites claiming to be affiliated with USCIS. Always verify that your information comes from trusted sources like uscis.gov or dhs.gov.
- Payment Scams:
- USCIS will never ask you to transfer money via Western Union, MoneyGram, PayPal, or gift cards. Additionally, fees are never requested by phone or email.
- Notarios Públicos and Unauthorized Practitioners:
- In the U.S., a notario público is not permitted to provide legal services related to immigration. Only licensed attorneys or accredited representatives can offer legal advice on immigration issues.
For more information on legal services and how to protect yourself from scams, visit the USCIS website.
