Keeping Families Together a Goal of Biden’s Immigration Plan

 Posted on October 08, 2024 in English

The current administration released a statement in June 2024 outlining plans for immigration actions and detailing how lawful pathways for maintaining family unity can be expanded. President Biden stressed that immigrants who have been in the United States for most of their lives, "paying taxes and contributing to their communities are part of the social fabric of our country."

More needs to be done to create a sense of stability for those who currently live in families with a noncitizen family member such as Dreamers who were educated in the United States. Unfortunately, these improved plans for immigrant families could change after the November election. If you have questions about a family immigration issue, an experienced Herndon, VA immigration lawyer from Immigration Legal Advisors, PLLC can help.

The Plan for Keeping Families Together

Actions by DHS will help U.S. citizens with noncitizen spouses and children – including DACA recipients (Dreamers) – keep their families intact without fear of separation. Important details include:

• Noncitizen spouses and children will be able to apply for lawful permanent residence without leaving the country.

• For noncitizen spouses, requirements include residing in America for ten or more years as of June 17, 2024, being legally married to a U.S. citizen, and satisfying other applicable requirements.

• Noncitizen spouses who are approved following a case-by-case assessment of their application will have three years in which to apply for permanent residency during which they can stay with their loved ones.

• It is estimated that this one change will protect as many as half a million noncitizen spouses.

Dreamers who are noncitizen college graduates who have earned a degree at an accredited college or university and received an employment offer in a field related to their degree will also be able to apply for and receive a work visa much more quickly than in the past. DACA recipients have lived in uncertainty and fear of deportation for the majority of their lives.

Today, almost half of all DACA recipients are married and have at least one child at home. Every two years, DACA recipients must renew their status – a process that is costly and inaccessible for some. Knowing that the politics of our country could make DACA disappear at any moment has resulted in the 530,110 Dreamers who live in the U.S. being under a constant cloud of anxiety.

After a legal battle during the Trump administration, DACA was reinstated during President Biden’s first term. Even so, applicants have experienced extreme delays, causing further anxiety. As the political tug-of-war continues, DACA recipients have to wonder – even in light of the June 2024 changes – where their futures stand.

Any person eligible to apply for lawful permanent status under the criteria above should apply immediately. Speak to an experienced immigration attorney who can guide you through the process to ensure there are no errors or missing information on your application. You can ask your immigration attorney about all legal pathways to citizenship for noncitizen family members and determine the best way to reach the goal of lawful permanent residency.

Contact a Fairfax County, VA Immigration Lawyer

The immigration process can be complex, with multiple forms and documents required, as well as stressful interviews with immigration officials. Having an experienced Herndon, VA immigration attorney from Immigration Legal Advisors, PLLC can make a significant difference in the outcome of your immigration process.

Legal concerns are correctly addressed through a national immigration attorney, resulting in family members being able to legally live and work in the United States. Our firm provides compassionate, dedicated representation in all aspects of family-based immigration issues. Call 571-441-2233 today to schedule your free consultation.