On Tuesday, June 18, US President Joe Biden will introduce new regulations to simplify the process for undocumented spouses of US citizens to obtain permanent residency, as announced by the White House.
These new rules will not broaden eligibility but will streamline the process for those already qualified, including removing the requirement for applicants to leave the country during the application process.
The rules will apply to those who have been in the US for at least 10 years and were married to a US citizen before June 17, 2024, affecting an estimated 500,000 people. Additionally, approximately 50,000 stepchildren of US citizens will also be eligible.
Approved individuals will receive work authorization and the right to remain in the United States for up to three years while applying for permanent residency. Once permanent residency, or a green card, is granted, they can apply for citizenship.
“We are announcing streamlined processes to minimize bureaucracy and the hardship of leaving the country,” a senior administration official stated. However, another official emphasized that comprehensive immigration and asylum law reform requires Congressional action.
Recently, Biden signed an executive order limiting the number of asylum seekers at the border, which drew criticism and legal challenges from rights groups. A prior bipartisan immigration proposal, which included strict policies, collapsed when Republicans withdrew support.
Additionally, the Biden administration will simplify the process for undocumented immigrants who arrived in the US as children, known as Dreamers, to obtain work visas if they have graduated from college and secured a high-skilled job offer.