Half a Million Immigrants Could Eventually Get U.S. Citizenship Under New Plan

The Biden administration is set to unveil a new initiative called “Parole in Place” aimed at protecting undocumented immigrants married to U.S. citizens from deportation. This program is expected to benefit approximately 500,000 immigrants, providing them with work permits and a streamlined path to obtaining a green card.

Eligibility and Benefits

Under the new program, undocumented spouses who have lived and been married in the U.S. will be qualified to apply for Parole in Place after serving for at least ten years. This initiative not only shields them from deportation but also grants work permits, enhancing their economic stability.

Currently, undocumented individuals who have stayed in the U.S. for over a year without documentation must leave the country for at least ten years to qualify for legal status, even if they are married to a U.S. citizen.

Impact on Mixed-Status Families

The regulation could benefit up to 500,000 American families in mixed-status marriages, where one parent lacks legal status. Additionally, it will assist around 50,000 non-citizen children under 21 whose parent is married to a U.S. citizen.

This initiative allows non-citizen spouses and children to apply for lawful permanent residence status without leaving the country and facing potential dangers.

Pathway to Citizenship

President Biden’s announcement also includes provisions for certain spouses of U.S. citizens without legal status may apply for citizenship in the long run, as well as permanent residency.

To qualify, an immigrant must have resided in the U.S. on June 17, 2024, for ten years, and be got married to a citizen of the United States. If their application is approved, they will have three years to apply for a green card, receive a temporary work permit, and be protected from deportation during this period.

Extended Protections and Work Visas

The new plan also aims to streamline the employment visa process for immigrants with high-skilled job offers, including recipients of the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program.

This measure seeks to expedite work visas for immigrants who have graduated from U.S. colleges and received job offers related to their degrees. Some work visas, such as the H-1B for specialty occupations, offer a pathway to citizenship, although the process can be lengthy due to backlogs.

Legal Challenges and Support

While legal challenges to this initiative are anticipated, it has garnered broad support, including from some Republicans. Advocates argue that the action is long overdue and essential for the stability of many families and communities.

California Senator Alex Padilla praised Biden’s action, calling it “justice” that is long overdue for people who have been waiting but are key to thriving families and communities.

Implementation Timeline

The process for applying for these new protections is expected to open by the end of summer. The Department of Homeland Security will issue a federal register notice in the coming weeks, detailing the program’s specifics.

Applications will be considered on a case-by-case basis, ensuring a thorough evaluation of each applicant’s circumstances.

Event Announcement

President Biden will discuss his plans at a White House event on Tuesday, marking the 12th anniversary of the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program. This event will underscore the administration’s commitment to protecting and supporting immigrant communities.

The DACA program, an Obama-era directive, has provided deportation protections and temporary work permits for young immigrants lacking legal status, benefiting nearly 530,000 individuals.

Conclusion

The Biden administration’s “Parole in Place” program represents a significant step toward protecting undocumented immigrants married to U.S. citizens. By providing work permits and a path to legal status, the initiative aims to stabilize mixed-status families and offer economic opportunities. While legal challenges are expected, the broad support for the program highlights its importance and potential positive impact on American families.

This new plan could eventually lead to U.S. citizenship for half a million immigrants, marking a substantial shift in immigration policy and offering hope to many undocumented individuals and their families.