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DHS Parole Fee Officially Enacted as of October 16, 2025
On October 16, 2025, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) implemented a new rule requiring a $1,000 fee for individuals granted parole under Section 212(d)(5) of the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA). The policy applies broadly across most parole categories, including individuals outside the United States requesting humanitarian parole, those seeking parole in place (PIP), and individuals being re-paroled or released from DHS custody.
This fee is now a critical consideration for those navigating the U.S. immigration system and for sponsors supporting parole applications. According to DHS, the purpose of the fee is to recover some of the administrative costs associated with adjudicating parole cases.
When the Parole Fee Applies
The new DHS rule specifies that the $1,000 fee must be paid only after parole is granted, not at the time of filing. Whether the parole is granted at a U.S. port of entry (for applicants abroad) or by USCIS for those already in the country, the individual will receive a payment notice with detailed instructions. Parole will not be issued until the fee is paid within the prescribed deadline.
The fee is required in the following scenarios:
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Initial parole for foreign nationals outside the U.S.
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Parole in place for individuals already present in the U.S.
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Re-parole or continuation of parole for individuals previously granted parole
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Parole of individuals from DHS detention
Each time an individual is granted parole, even if it’s a renewal or re-parole, the fee must be paid again. DHS has indicated that the $1,000 amount is subject to annual adjustments for inflation, suggesting that this cost could increase in future years.
Who Is Exempt from the Parole Fee?
Although the fee is mandatory in most cases, DHS has carved out specific exemptions to protect individuals in critical or urgent humanitarian situations. No fee is required in the following cases:
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Individuals with emergency medical needs who cannot access care in their home country and who do not have time to go through the standard visa process
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Parents or legal guardians accompanying minors with such medical needs
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Organ or tissue donors entering the U.S. for urgent medical procedures
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Individuals whose close family member is in imminent danger of death
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Individuals seeking to attend the funeral of a close relative
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Children being adopted with urgent medical needs before an adoption-related visa is issued
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Lawful applicants for adjustment of status under INA §245 returning to the U.S. after short-term travel
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Cuban or Haitian entrants under the Refugee Education Assistance Act of 1980
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Individuals paroled for significant public benefit, such as law enforcement cooperation, when there isn’t time to obtain a visa
Each of these exemptions is evaluated on a case-by-case basis, and the burden is on the applicant to demonstrate that the exemption criteria are met.
Practical Considerations for Applicants and Sponsors
The implementation of the $1,000 parole fee introduces both logistical and financial considerations for individuals and families seeking relief through parole. For many, particularly those navigating humanitarian parole or PIP for military families, the fee can represent a significant additional burden.
Because the fee is payable after approval, applicants must be financially prepared when DHS issues the payment instruction. Failure to pay in time will delay or entirely prevent the issuance of parole. Additionally, the lack of upfront payment may lead to confusion if applicants and sponsors are not properly advised.
Immigration attorneys must now proactively advise clients on the timing, cost, and possible exemptions when pursuing any parole-related benefit. Close coordination will be necessary to ensure no delays or denials due to overlooked payment requirements.
How Spar & Bernstein Can Help
At Spar & Bernstein, our legal team is committed to helping clients successfully navigate every stage of the U.S. immigration process. With the new DHS parole fee in place, we offer strategic support that includes:
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Determining eligibility for parole fee exemptions
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Preparing and submitting robust parole applications with supporting evidence for humanitarian or public benefit cases
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Assisting clients in timely responding to fee notices from DHS and managing re-parole timelines
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Coordinating parole strategies with other immigration benefits, such as adjustment of status or family petitions
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Monitoring DHS and USCIS policy updates regarding fee inflation adjustments and procedural changes
Spar & Bernstein has helped thousands of clients obtain humanitarian relief and adjustment of status. Our deep knowledge of both parole law and broader immigration policy positions us to serve individuals and families during this important regulatory shift.
The new $1,000 parole fee is a consequential development for immigrants, sponsors, and legal practitioners. While it introduces new challenges, it also reinforces the importance of detailed preparation, financial readiness, and legal advocacy in achieving successful outcomes.
By understanding the rules, exemptions, and procedural timelines, applicants can continue to pursue parole-based entry and relief. With trusted legal guidance from Spar & Bernstein, clients can be confident their cases are positioned for approval—while minimizing risk, delay, and expense.
To discuss how this policy affects your case or that of a family member, contact Spar & Bernstein today for a comprehensive consultation and personalized immigration strategy.
