In a significant policy shift, President Biden has enacted a new immigration law that provides relief to spouses of U.S. citizens who have been residing in the United States for over 10 years. This law is part of the Biden administration’s ongoing efforts to reform the immigration system and create more inclusive pathways to legal status for immigrants contributing to the U.S. economy and society.
What Does the New Law Entail?
Under this new regulation, spouses of U.S. citizens who have lived continuously in the country for at least 10 years may now be eligible for a green card, even if they had previously faced barriers due to undocumented status. The law seeks to keep families together by recognizing the hardships that long-term residents face and offering a pathway to legal permanent residency.
Key Highlights of the Law
- Eligibility Criteria: The applicant must be married to a U.S. citizen and have lived in the country continuously for a minimum of 10 years.
- Waivers for Certain Violations: In many cases, individuals who were previously ineligible for a green card due to past immigration violations, such as overstaying a visa, may now qualify if they meet the requirements.
- Streamlined Process: The new policy reduces the need for applicants to leave the U.S. and face lengthy wait times abroad. Instead, they can apply for their green card while staying with their families.
- Focus on Family Reunification: This law is in line with Biden’s broader focus on keeping families united, prioritizing the stability and well-being of U.S. citizen families that include immigrant spouses.
Why This Law Matters
This policy change is crucial for countless mixed-status families who have faced the threat of separation due to rigid immigration laws. Previously, many spouses of U.S. citizens would have to leave the country and face a lengthy process before being allowed to return with legal status. The new law not only eliminates this burden but also allows for a more compassionate approach to immigration by recognizing the contributions and commitment of long-term residents.
How This Law Reflects Biden’s Immigration Agenda
This reform is part of President Biden’s broader efforts to create a more humane and functional immigration system. From reversing harsh deportation policies to reinstating the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program, Biden’s administration has taken various steps to provide legal pathways and protect vulnerable immigrant populations.
The new law for spouses of U.S. citizens continues this trend, aiming to reduce the backlogs and complexities of the immigration system while focusing on family unity.
What Comes Next?
While this law is a major step forward, immigration advocates are still pushing for more comprehensive reforms that address broader issues like DACA, asylum processes, and the overall legal immigration system. For now, spouses of U.S. citizens who have been living in the U.S. for over 10 years can begin the process of applying for their green cards and securing their futures in the country.