President Biden unveiled new rules on Tuesday aimed at safeguarding the migrant spouses of U.S. citizens from deportation. The Department of Homeland Security will introduce a policy allowing certain migrants to apply for lawful permanent resident status, specifically targeting non-citizen spouses and children of lawful U.S. permanent residents or citizens.
The White House estimates that this policy will protect approximately half a million American families, including around 50,000 individuals under the age of 21 who are married to or children of U.S. citizens.
According to a White House fact sheet, the eligibility requirements for the new rules stipulate that spouses of Americans must have resided in the U.S. for at least 10 years, be legally married to a U.S. citizen, and meet other immigration criteria. Those approved under the program can apply for permanent U.S. residency after three years and are eligible for work authorization in the U.S. for up to three years.
In addition to protecting migrant spouses, the new rules will simplify the visa process for U.S. college graduates, including DACA recipients, who have obtained a degree from a U.S. educational institution and have a job offer from a U.S.-based company.
The White House clarified that the rules apply to individuals eligible under existing U.S. law to adjust their status, emphasizing the aim to create streamlined processes for those eligible for permanent resident status.
President Biden's administration will also address the ongoing border crisis by deploying additional resources and collaborating with international partners to reduce the influx of arrivals into the United States.
It was emphasized that migrants deemed a threat to national security or public safety would not be eligible for protection under the new rules, with DHS committed to removing such individuals or referring them to other agencies for further scrutiny.
A White House spokesperson highlighted President Biden's belief in securing the border while expanding lawful pathways and keeping families together. The administration recognizes long-term immigrants' contributions to society and aims to integrate them into the fabric of the country.
