Commencing on July 31, 2023, the National Visa Center (NVC) of the Department of State will initiate the issuance of invitations for the family reunification parole (FRP) processes applicable to Colombia, El Salvador, Guatemala, and Honduras.
On July 7, 2023, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) introduced new FRP processes for these countries. Participation in these processes is by invitation only and is extended to specific petitioners whose Form I-130, Petition for Alien Relative, filed on behalf of a principal beneficiary from Colombia, El Salvador, Guatemala, or Honduras, has received approval.
The FRP processes offer a secure and organized avenue for beneficiaries and their immediate family members to be considered for parole into the United States on an individual basis. This alternative provides a lawful and safer option compared to embarking on perilous journeys or enduring prolonged waits for family reunification. Noncitizens who opt for unlawful entry into the United States instead of utilizing these lawful pathways will face more stringent consequences, including removal and an admission bar.
Invitations will be dispatched via mail or email to the petitioners, specifying eligible family members for consideration. Only after receiving an invitation can a petitioner submit Form I-134A, the Online Request to be a Supporter, and Declaration of Financial Support, under the FRP processes. USCIS will soon introduce an online tool on the FRP Processes webpage for petitioners to verify if they have received an invitation.
Petitioners who believe they qualify should ensure that the NVC possesses their up-to-date contact information and mailing address. Updates can be made by contacting the NVC through their Public Inquiry Form. Invitations will be emailed if there is an associated email address linked to the approved Form I-130; otherwise, invitations will be sent by mail to the petitioner's recorded mailing address.
Invitations will be distributed in a phased manner, considering operational capacity and the anticipated timeframe until the principal beneficiary's immigrant visa becomes available. The process will be carried out consistently to maintain integrity.
Stay tuned for forthcoming information on streamlined FRP processes and invitations for Cuba and Haiti.
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