I-220a to cross the border: A Complete Guide to Entering the U.S.

If you wish to enter the U.S., you must obtain a visa unless you are a U.S. citizen or a lawful permanent resident. The U.S. government offers various types of visas to foreign nationals for different purposes, such as studying, working, and visiting. However, some immigrants are in a desperate situation and need to enter the US immediately based on humanitarian reasons. In such cases, the U.S. government provides an option known as I-220a. In this article, from the Legal Offices of Nido Nylund, we will provide a complete guide to entering the U.S. using I-220a.

Immigrants waiting for their chance to cross the border once granted humanitarian parole

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I-220a is a form of humanitarian parole that allows foreign nationals to enter the U.S. temporarily on humanitarian grounds. The U.S. government grants humanitarian parole on a case-by-case basis, and it is not a visa or a permanent immigration status. It is a temporary solution for those who cannot obtain a visa or would suffer significant harm if they were not allowed to enter the U.S. immediately. Some examples of such reasons include medical emergencies, family reunification, and urgent business matters. It is important to note that I-220a is not intended for people who wish to enter the U.S. for tourism or other non-essential reasons.

To be eligible for I-220a, the foreign national must demonstrate that their entry into the U.S. is justified due to urgent humanitarian reasons. They must also prove that they are admissible to the U.S. under immigration law, meaning they do not have any criminal or immigration violations that would prevent them from entering the U.S.

To apply for I-220a, the foreign national must submit Form I-131, Application for Travel Document, to the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). The application must include detailed information about the urgent humanitarian reason for the request and why the foreign national cannot obtain a visa. The USCIS will review the case-by-case application basis and decide based on the information provided.

It is important to note that the USCIS has complete discretion when granting or denying I-220a. Therefore, providing all relevant and compelling information to support the application is crucial.

If the USCIS approves the I-220a application, the foreign national will receive a travel document allowing them to enter the U.S. temporarily. Upon arrival in the U.S., the foreign national must present the travel document and go through the customs and immigration process. In addition, U.S. immigration officials will ask questions about the purpose of the visit and the length of stay, and they may request additional documentation.

Foreign nationals must have all required documentation upon arrival in the U.S. They should also be prepared to answer questions truthfully and provide complete and accurate information.

Upon arrival in the U.S., the foreign national will be subject to U.S. laws and regulations. They must follow all U.S. laws and regulations, including employment, taxes, and healthcare. It is imperative to remember that humanitarian parolees are only authorized to work or study in the U.S. if specifically approved by the USCIS. They may also be required to report to U.S. immigration officials periodically to provide updates on their status.

Entering the U.S. can be complex and challenging, but it is possible with the correct information and guidance. I-220a is a viable option for foreign nationals who cannot obtain a visa but have urgent humanitarian reasons to enter the U.S. However, providing all relevant and compelling information to support the application is essential, as the USCIS has complete discretion when granting or denying I-220a.

For more information, call us at 713-678-0582 or 202-256-9541 for a free consultation with one of our immigration attorneys.