The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has introduced a new streamlined process that allows Afghan nationals to renew their parole and maintain their residence and employment in the United States. This initiative, at no cost to applicants, grants a two-year renewal of parole to eligible individuals who arrived through Operation Allies Welcome and Enduring Welcome.
The streamlined and fee-exempt application process is available online and through Form I-131, Application for Travel Document. Renewal requests will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis for urgent humanitarian reasons and significant public benefit.
DHS will also consider a two-year extension of parole for Afghan parolees who have applied or continue to apply for asylum (Form I-589) or adjustment of status to lawful permanent resident (Form I-485). These extensions will be assessed on an individual basis, considering urgent humanitarian reasons and significant public benefit. Approved extensions will include an extension of employment authorization.
Afghan nationals are encouraged to explore their eligibility for permanent status in the United States, including through the Special Immigrant and asylum processes. To assist with this, DHS has established Afghan Support Centers, with the first two held in Phoenix and Tucson, Arizona. The next Afghan Support Center will be held from June 21 to 24 at the SAFE Credit Union Convention Center in Sacramento, California. These centers provide information on immigration and social services available to Operation Allies Welcome and Enduring Welcome beneficiaries. More dates and locations for Afghan Support Centers will be announced soon.
