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Today, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) announced implementation of a new family reunification parole (FRP) process for certain nationals of Ecuador. This process allows an eligible beneficiary to be considered for parole into the United States on a case-by-case basis while they wait for their family-based immigrant visa to become available. It is available by invitation only to certain petitioners with an approved Form I-130, Petition for Alien Relative, on behalf of an Ecuadorian beneficiary.

What You Need to Know
On Nov. 17, 2023, the Department of State’s National Visa Center (NVC) will begin issuing invitations to certain U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident petitioners whose Form I-130 on behalf of an Ecuadorian beneficiary has been approved. After a petitioner receives an invitation, they can begin the FRP process by filing Form I-134A, Online Request to be a Supporter and Declaration of Financial Support, and requesting to be a supporter of the principal beneficiary and any derivative beneficiary spouse and children. These beneficiaries may then be considered for advance travel authorization to travel to the United States to be considered for a discretionary grant of parole.

Petitioners must receive an invitation from the NVC before filing Form I-134A under this process. Petitioners may use our online tool to confirm whether they have been issued an invitation. If you are a petitioner and you believe you may be eligible, make sure the NVC has your current contact information and mailing address. To update your contact information and address, contact the NVC through their Public Inquiry Form.

Noncitizens paroled into the United States under this process will generally be considered for parole for up to three years and can request employment authorization while they wait for their immigrant visa to become available. When their immigrant visa becomes available, they may apply to become a lawful permanent resident.

Protect yourself from immigration scams! If you need legal advice on immigration matters, make sure the person helping you is authorized to give legal advice. Visit the Avoid Scams page for information and resources.

  ecuador, immigration, United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS)