Biden Administration Announces Actions to Keep Families Together
On June 18, 2024, The White House announced that President Biden had taken action to keep families together by supporting noncitizens who have been in the United States for many years. Additionally, this announcement helps individuals, including DACA (Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals) recipients and Dreamers who finished college in the U.S. and got job offers in their field, to get work visas faster.
What does this announcement mean for you and your family? At Federal Immigration Counselors, P.C., we practice immigration law and are here to offer our support. Let’s explore the latest immigration news from the Biden Administration and explain how it could impact you and your family.
Updates for Noncitizen Spouses and Children
President Biden recently announced new actions to help U.S. citizens keep their families together, especially when they have noncitizen spouses and children. These changes could have a significant impact on families across the country. Here’s what you need to know.
What’s Changing?
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is introducing a new process that allows certain noncitizen spouses and children to apply for permanent residence without having to leave the United States.
To be eligible, noncitizens must meet the following criteria:
- They must have lived in the United States for 10 or more years as of June 17, 2024.
- They must be legally married to a U.S. citizen.
- They must satisfy all applicable legal requirements.
On average, most people who qualify have already lived in the U.S. for over 20 years. This process is designed to promote family unity and strengthen the economy.
How Does It Work?
If approved through DHS’s case-by-case assessment, eligible noncitizens will receive a three-year period to apply for permanent residency. Here’s what happens next:
- They can stay with their families in the U.S. during this period.
- They will be eligible for work authorization for up to three years.
The new policies aim to keep American families together by providing stability and security to U.S. citizens and their noncitizen family members. This supports family unity and has potential benefits for the broader community and economy.
Simplifying the Visa Process for U.S. College Graduates
President Obama and then-Vice President Biden introduced the DACA policy to help young people who were brought to the U.S. as children contribute meaningfully to our country. Fast forward twelve years, and these DACA recipients, who were once high school and college students, are now building careers and starting families.
New Announcement: Easier Work Visas
The Biden Administration recognizes that it’s beneficial for our nation to allow educated individuals to use their skills here. Therefore, they are taking steps to simplify the visa process for those who have college degrees and high-skilled job offers, including DACA recipients and other Dreamers.
Do You Have Questions? We Can Help
We know that changes in immigration laws can be complex and confusing. This is why Federal Immigration Counselors, P.C. is here to help you understand the latest changes. Our federal immigration counselors in Phoenix and San Diego are ready to explain how new policies might affect you and your loved ones.
If you need help navigating immigration laws, including family immigration, we are available to assist, using over 30 years of experience. Whether you have questions about your status, need help with paperwork, or want to know more about your options, our team is here to advocate for you and secure favorable outcomes.
Contact us online or call (602) 254-5353 today to schedule an initial consultation and get the support you deserve.