US offers citizenship pathway to 550,000 migrant spouses, stepchildren
The programme, named "Keeping Families Together," aims to remove the barriers that have long plagued noncitizen spouses of US citizens
immigration
Migrants, waiting for their immigration process in Ciudad Juarez to enter the United States, watch the "Copa America Migrante 2024" soccer tournament organised by the local government, in Ciudad Juarez, Mexico August 15, 2024. Photo: Reuters
Surbhi Gloria Singh New Delhi
6 min read Last Updated : Aug 20 2024 | 10:20 AM IST
The Joe Biden administration has announced a new initiative that offers a pathway to legal status for an estimated 500,000 spouses of US citizens without requiring them to leave the country. This move, unveiled on Monday, is seen as one of the biggest steps taken by President Joe Biden to address the issue of illegal immigration. With this, up to 500,000 noncitizen spouses and 50,000 noncitizen stepchildren of US citizens may meet the eligibility criteria. If granted parole, these individuals could apply for lawful permanent residence without leaving the country, potentially bringing an end to years of uncertainty and fear for many families.
'Keep families together'
The programme, named "Keeping Families Together," aims to remove the barriers that have long plagued noncitizen spouses of US citizens. “Too often, noncitizen spouses of US citizens – many of them mothers and fathers – live with uncertainty due to undue barriers in our immigration system. This process to keep US families together will remove these undue barriers for those who would otherwise qualify to live and work lawfully in the US,” said Ur Jaddou, Director of US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).
This initiative is not just about granting legal status; it's also about improving the efficiency of the immigration system, according to Jaddou. The focus will be on noncitizens who have deep-rooted connections within American communities, ensuring that the system benefits those who contribute positively to society.
https://www.business-standard.com/finance/personal-finance/us-offers-citizenship-pathway-to-550-000-migrant-spouses-stepchildren-124082000190_1.html
