Is Keeping Families Together available in 2026?

No. The Keeping Families Together parole-in-place process for spouses and stepchildren of U.S. citizens was vacated nationwide by a federal court in late 2024, and as of early-to-mid 2026 USCIS is not accepting or adjudicating Form I-131F applications under it. Confirm the current status before relying on any change.

Is military parole in place still available?

As of early-to-mid 2026, yes — military parole in place is a separate program that remains available on a discretionary, case-by-case basis for the spouse, parent, or unmarried child under 21 of an active-duty service member, a Selected Reserve member, or an eligible veteran. It is requested on Form I-131. Because the discretionary climate is strict, confirm the current status before filing.

I paid the $580 fee for an I-131F application. Do I get it back?

USCIS has been issuing refunds of the Form I-131F filing fees for applications submitted under the vacated program. Watch for a refund notice and confirm the current refund process for your specific case rather than assuming it happens automatically.

If parole in place is gone for me, what are my options?

It depends on your entry. A spouse who was inspected and admitted or paroled may be able to pursue a marriage-based green card through adjustment of status without needing parole in place. A spouse who entered without inspection and has no military connection usually looks at consular processing abroad paired with a provisional unlawful-presence waiver. The right path turns on your documented entry history.

How much does military parole in place cost now?

As of early-to-mid 2026, plan for the Form I-131 filing fee (reported around $630) plus a reported $1,000 fee if the parole is granted, with fee waivers no longer available for these requests. Confirm the current amounts before filing, as fees have changed recently.

Is it risky to file now given stricter enforcement?

Any filing puts detailed information in front of the government, and 2026 is a strict discretionary environment. That is exactly why an individualized review matters before you submit anything — so you understand your exposure, your eligibility, and your best path first. For families worried about enforcement, reviewing your situation with counsel before acting is the safer course.

How much is the initial consultation?

The initial consultation is a paid strategy session: $200 for 20 minutes with an attorney, credited toward your fee if you retain the firm. Call (305) 315-3425 or email fitenkolaw@gmail.com to schedule. This article is general information, not legal advice, and does not create an attorney-client relationship. Immigration law and policy in 2026 are changing quickly; program availability, fees, and litigation outcomes can shift. For guidance on your specific situation, speak with a licensed attorney. Fitenko Law PLLC, Hallandale Beach, serving Miami and South Florida.

Parole in Place & Keeping Families Together (2026): Miami Update

Where parole in place and Keeping Families Together stand in 2026, and what Miami families can do now. Fitenko Law, Hallandale Beach. Call (305) 315-3425.

Fitenko Law PLLC, 600 Three Islands Blvd, Hallandale Beach, FL 33009. Phone: (305) 315-3425. Email: fitenkolaw@gmail.com

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