In today’s blog update, we’ll talk about the New Programs for DACA Holders and Undocumented Spouses of U.S. Citizens
On June 18, 2024, the Biden Administration announced two new immigration programs aimed at addressing long-standing issues. One program targets undocumented spouses of U.S. citizens who have lived in the U.S. for ten years or more. These individuals, along with their minor children, will now be eligible for work authorization and a three-year path to legal permanent residence (green card status).
Parole in Place (PIP) for Undocumented Spouses
The new program introduces Parole in Place (PIP), granting legal recognition and work permits to eligible applicants. Once PIP is approved, the U.S. citizen spouse can follow the normal sponsorship process for obtaining legal permanent residence for their spouse and children under 21. This new process eliminates the need for applicants to leave the U.S. for visa processing, which previously took 6-10 years with no guarantee of return.
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Pathway to Legal Residence for DACA Holders
Another significant development is for DACA recipients who have graduated with a bachelor’s degree or higher from a U.S. university or college. These individuals can now seek legal permanent residence through employment. Under the new program, DACA graduates and their employers can pursue employment-based green cards, but applicants must leave the U.S. at the end of the process to attend their green card interview at a U.S. consulate in their home country.
Potential Court Challenges
While these programs offer hope, they may face legal challenges similar to those encountered by past immigration reforms. However, the use of PIP, as opposed to Deferred Action, might provide stronger legal standing, drawing from successful applications in military families and other groups.
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Broad Support for Sensible Immigration Reform
The American Business Immigration Coalition and other business groups support these initiatives, emphasizing the economic, political, and moral importance of sensible immigration reform. This coalition, comprising over 1,400 diverse businesses and associations, has long advocated for work permits for long-time undocumented immigrants in the U.S.
These new programs represent a significant step forward in addressing immigration challenges, providing more straightforward and humane paths to legal residence for many families.
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