USA
Undocumented Spouses of U.S. Citizens to Receive New Legal Protections Under Biden Plan. The Biden administration has unveiled a new policy granting temporary legal status and a potential path to citizenship for undocumented immigrants married to U.S. citizens. This initiative, known as “parole in place” (PIP), aims to promote family unity, aligning with the administration’s commitment to keeping families together. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) announced that the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) will begin accepting applications for this program on August 19, 2024.
What the New Policy Entails
Announced on June 18, 2024, the PIP policy allows noncitizen spouses who have lived in the United States for at least ten years to apply for parole. This status enables them to seek lawful permanent residence without the need to leave the country, thus avoiding the hardships of family separation. By providing a potential pathway to citizenship, the policy is expected to protect around half a million spouses and approximately 50,000 undocumented children under the age of 21.
To qualify for this initiative, applicants must meet specific criteria. They must have been continuously present in the United States for at least a decade, be married to a U.S. citizen as of June 17, 2024, and have no disqualifying criminal history. Additionally, DHS may consider noncitizen stepchildren of U.S. citizens under this policy.
Application Process and Benefits
Starting August 19, 2024, USCIS will accept applications for PIP. Successful applicants will receive an I-94 travel record, a crucial document that enables them to apply for a green card and, eventually, U.S. citizenship. The process aims to streamline the transition from undocumented status to legal residency, reducing the uncertainty that many families face. Detailed eligibility criteria and application processes will be published in an upcoming Federal Register notice, ensuring that applicants have access to comprehensive guidance.
Commitment to Family Unity
The introduction of PIP reflects the Biden-Harris administration’s broader immigration reform goals, focusing on humane policies that prioritize family unity. By providing undocumented spouses with a legal avenue to remain with their families in the United States, the administration is taking a significant step towards addressing the complex challenges of the immigration system.
The new policy has been met with optimism from immigrant advocacy groups and affected families who have long awaited reforms that recognize the importance of family unity. As the policy takes effect, it is expected to bring relief to thousands of families, allowing them to plan for a future together in the United States.
