Biden Process: USCIS Announces New Process to Promote Family Unity
US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) is pleased to announce a new initiative aimed at strengthening families! This new process, aligned with the Biden-Harris Administration's commitment to keeping families together, will offer hope to many noncitizen spouses of U.S. citizens who have been living in the United States for a significant amount of time.
Addressing the Challenge of Family Separation
Currently, the path to lawful permanent residence for some noncitizen spouses often involves a lengthy separation from their U.S. citizen family members. This can cause significant hardship and uncertainty. To address this challenge, USCIS is establishing a new option for certain spouses who meet specific criteria.
Who May Be Eligible?
This new process is designed for noncitizen spouses of U.S. citizens who have been living in the United States for at least 10 years, meet specific eligibility requirements, and pose no threat to national security or public safety. Importantly, these individuals will be able to apply for lawful permanent residence without leaving the United States. USCIS estimates that approximately 500,000 spouses and 50,000 children could potentially benefit from this initiative.
Eligibility and Application Details
USCIS will provide more specific details regarding eligibility and the application process in the near future, including a formal announcement in the Federal Register. It's important to note that USCIS will reject any applications received before the official application period begins later this summer. An immigration attorney can help you navigate the specific requirements and ensure your application is complete and submitted correctly.
USCIS Commitment to Family Unity
This new process builds on the Biden-Harris Administration's ongoing efforts to promote family unity in the immigration system. These efforts include implementing family reunification parole programs, updating existing reunification processes, and reuniting children who were separated from their families at the border.
Additional DHS Action
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS), which includes USCIS, is also taking steps to streamline the process for obtaining certain employment-based visas for eligible individuals who have graduated from accredited U.S. institutions. This will benefit DACA recipients, undocumented noncitizens, and U.S. employers seeking skilled talent.
We encourage you to visit the USCIS website for updates on this new family unity process and other immigration-related news. For personalized guidance throughout the immigration process, consider consulting with an immigration attorney.