Key Takeaways:
- Biden’s new plan offers citizenship pathways for 500,000 immigrant spouses of US citizens, contrasting sharply with Trump’s deportation policies.
- Immigrants must meet a ten-year residency requirement and be married to a US citizen to qualify.
- Applications open end of summer; also assists 50,000 noncitizen children and easier work visa access for DACA beneficiaries.
What is Biden’s New Immigration Plan for Spouses of US Citizens?
On Tuesday, President Joe Biden unveiled a new initiative to provide a citizenship pathway for up to 500,000 immigrant spouses of US citizens. This effort, announced at a White House event, represents a sharp contrast to former President Donald Trump’s immigration strategies, specifically his approach to deportations.
Why Make This Move Now?
Biden’s announcement comes in an election year, underscoring a clear divergence from Donald Trump’s policies, which often included mass deportations and divisive rhetoric. Biden openly criticized Trump, saying, “It’s hard to believe it’s being said, but he’s actually saying these things out loud. And it’s outrageous. I’m not interested in playing politics with border or immigration. I’m interested in fixing it.”
What Are the Eligibility Criteria for the Biden Immigration Plan?
To be eligible for the program:
- Immigrants must have lived in the United States for at least ten years by June 17, 2024.
- Must be married to a US citizen.
If approved, these immigrants can apply for a green card within a three-year window. While waiting, they will receive a temporary work permit and protection from deportation.
The administration also opened this pathway to about 50,000 noncitizen children whose parent is married to a US citizen, provided they meet the ten-year residency requirement by the specified date.
What is the Application Process?
Applications are expected to open by the end of the summer, though the fees for the process have not yet been determined.
How Does This Compare to Previous Policies?
Biden’s plan leverages the “parole in place” authority, previously used by Presidents George W. Bush and Barack Obama, which allows qualifying immigrants to pursue permanent residency without needing to leave the country. This removal of a significant barrier aims to keep families together while addressing the longstanding issue of prolonged separations due to outdated immigration laws.
Connections to DACA and Other Beneficiaries
Biden’s announcement coincides with the 12th anniversary of the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program. The new policy also includes efforts to help certain DACA beneficiaries and other young immigrants qualify more easily for established work visas. This move offers a more robust set of protections compared to DACA’s temporary work permits.
What Changes are Coming for DACA Beneficiaries?
The administration plans to introduce new regulations that will assist young immigrants under DACA, providing a clearer path to securing established work visas. This is part of Biden’s wider effort to strengthen protections and create more stability for these individuals.
For More Information
For those interested in more details about immigration policies and pathways to citizenship, visit the official USCIS website.
Conclusion: A Significant Shift in Immigration Policy
Biden’s immigration plan marks a significant shift from previous policies, focusing on family unity and creating a lawful pathway to citizenship for half a million spouses of US citizens. This balanced approach aims to address immigration challenges with compassion and practicality, pushing forward a progressive and humane immigration policy.
Learn Today:
Glossary of Immigration Terms
1. Citizenship Pathway:
A legal process by which an immigrant can attain citizenship in a new country. In the context of Biden’s plan, it refers specifically to immigrant spouses of US citizens being given a defined route to become US citizens.
2. Deportation:
The formal removal of an individual from a country when they are found to be in violation of immigration laws. Biden’s plan offers protection from deportation for eligible spouses and their children, contrasting with former policies that emphasized mass deportations.
3. Green Card:
A document issued to immigrants granting them permanent residency in the United States. Biden’s new plan involves eligible immigrant spouses obtaining green cards after meeting the criteria.
4. Parole in Place:
An immigration policy tool allowing certain undocumented immigrants to remain in the United States and apply for permanent residency without having to leave the country first. Biden utilizes this authority to help immigrant spouses avoid lengthy separations.
5. Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA):
A US immigration policy that provides temporary protection from deportation and work authorization to eligible immigrant youths who came to the US as children. Biden’s plan aims to enhance this program, making it easier for DACA beneficiaries to secure permanent work visas.
This Article In A Nutshell:
President Biden’s new immigration plan provides a citizenship path for up to 500,000 spouses of US citizens. Eligible immigrants, married to US citizens and residing in the US for at least ten years, can apply for a green card, receive work permits, and be protected from deportation.
— By VisaVerge.com
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