Today marks a significant development in U.S. immigration policy, as President Biden has unveiled a series of new actions aimed at keeping families together and strengthening our nation's immigration system. These measures come in the face of ongoing Congressional gridlock and are designed to address some of the most pressing challenges faced by immigrants and their families in the United States.
Securing the Border and Enhancing Legal Pathways**
Since taking office, President Biden has emphasized the importance of securing our borders while also reforming the broken immigration system. Despite opposition from Congressional Republicans, the administration has implemented several measures to enhance border security and curb illegal immigration. These include:
- Implementing executive actions to bar migrants crossing the Southern border unlawfully from receiving asylum during high encounter periods.
- Deploying unprecedented numbers of law enforcement personnel, infrastructure, and technology to the Southern border.
- Seizing record amounts of fentanyl at ports of entry.
- Revoking visas of foreign CEOs and officials who profit from illegal migration.
- Expanding efforts to dismantle human smuggling networks and prosecuting violators of immigration laws.
Keeping Families Together
Central to today's announcement is the introduction of new processes to help U.S. citizens keep their noncitizen spouses and children together. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) will facilitate a process allowing certain noncitizen spouses and children to apply for lawful permanent residence without having to leave the country. This move is expected to benefit approximately half a million spouses of U.S. citizens and 50,000 noncitizen children under 21.
To be eligible, noncitizens must have resided in the U.S. for at least ten years as of June 17, 2024, and be legally married to a U.S. citizen. They must also meet all other applicable legal requirements. Eligible applicants will be granted a three-year period to apply for permanent residency and will be allowed to remain with their families in the U.S. during this time, with work authorization for up to three years.
Supporting Dreamers and U.S. College Graduates**
Recognizing the contributions of DACA recipients and other Dreamers, the administration has announced measures to ease the visa process for U.S. college graduates, including those protected under DACA. Individuals who have earned a degree from an accredited U.S. institution and have a job offer in a related field will be able to obtain work visas more quickly. This initiative aims to ensure that those educated in the U.S. can continue to contribute to the economy and society.
Conclusion
At Saluja Law Offices, we applaud these new actions by President Biden, which represent a significant step towards a fairer and more humane immigration system. By prioritizing family unity and creating clearer pathways for legal residency and employment, these measures promise to bring stability and peace of mind to countless families across the nation.
If you or your loved ones are affected by these new policies or have any immigration-related concerns, please contact us at Saluja Law. Our experienced team is here to help you navigate the complexities of immigration law and secure the best possible outcome for your family.
Contact Saluja Law today for expert legal assistance and support.
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This announcement underscores the administration's commitment to balancing border security with humane immigration reforms, providing new opportunities for families to stay together and for young immigrants to thrive. As these policies unfold, Saluja Law remains dedicated to offering comprehensive legal support to those navigating the U.S. immigration system.