DHS Initiative Advances President Biden’s Commitment to Family Unity in Immigration

DHS Initiative Advances President Biden’s Commitment to Family Unity in Immigration

On June 18, 2024, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) took a pivotal step towards fulfilling President Biden’s commitment to promoting family unity within the US immigration system. This new initiative aims to ensure that families remain together by offering a discretionary grant of parole in place to eligible individuals.

Key Points of the New Parole Process

To qualify for consideration under this new DHS initiative, an individual must:

1. Be present in the United States without admission or parole: This initiative is aimed at those who have entered the country without the proper admission procedures.
2. Have been continuously present in the United States for at least 10 years as of June 17, 2024: This demonstrates a significant commitment to residing in the U.S.
3. Have a legally valid marriage to a U.S. citizen as of June 17, 2024: This ensures that the process benefits those who have established legitimate family ties.

Additionally, the individuals must not have a disqualifying criminal history or pose a threat to national security or public safety. The decision to grant parole will be based on a favorable exercise of discretion.

Inclusion of Children

Noncitizen children of spouses granted parole under this DHS process may also be considered for parole if they meet certain criteria. They must be physically present in the United States without admission or parole and have a qualifying stepchild relationship with a U.S. citizen parent as defined by the Immigration and Nationality Act as of June 17, 2024.

Application Process

To be considered for parole, individuals will need to file a specific form with USCIS, provide supporting documentation to demonstrate eligibility, and pay a required fee. USCIS will soon publish further information about eligibility and the application process, including a notice in the Federal Register.

It is crucial to note that USCIS will reject any filings or individual requests received before the official start date of the application process later this summer.

Parole Duration and Subsequent Steps

Under this new process, qualifying individuals may be granted parole for up to three years. During this period, eligible spouses of U.S. citizens granted parole can file a Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status, and a concurrent Form I-130, Petition for Alien Relative, if applicable. By the end of the parole period, these individuals must have either a pending adjustment application or a completed adjustment adjudication.

Preventing Immigration Scams

USCIS emphasizes the importance of avoiding immigration scams. Here are some common scams to be aware of:

• Government Impersonators: USCIS will only contact you through official government channels, not personal social media accounts.
• Scam Websites: Ensure your information comes from uscis.gov, dhs.gov, or websites affiliated with uscis.gov.
• Payments by Phone or Email: USCIS will never ask for money transfers through Western Union, MoneyGram, PayPal, or gift cards.
• Notarios Públicos and Unauthorized Practitioners: Only seek legal advice from authorized professionals. In the U.S., a notario público lacks authorization to provide legal services related to immigration benefits.

What to Do Next

While awaiting the Federal Register Notice and application guidance, individuals can start preparing by gathering evidence. This includes proof of continuous presence in the U.S. for at least 10 years. It also requires evidence of a legally valid marriage to a U.S. citizen. Opening or updating a myUSCIS account can also be beneficial.

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For more Information Visit: https://www.uscis.gov/keepingfamiliestogether