Mr.Tee
President Joe Biden will announce new measures on Tuesday to streamline the residency process for undocumented spouses of U.S. citizens, according to a White House announcement. This move seeks to strike a balance on immigration issues in light of the upcoming presidential election, contrasting Biden’s approach with the harsher policies of former President Donald Trump.
The new rules, enacted through an executive order, will simplify the process for those already eligible for permanent residency by removing the requirement to leave the U.S. as part of their application. This policy applies to individuals who have been in the U.S. for at least ten years and are married to a U.S. citizen before June 17, 2024, potentially impacting about 500,000 people and 50,000 stepchildren of U.S. citizens.
Those approved under the new rules will receive work authorization and can remain in the U.S. for up to three years while applying for permanent residency, a step that could lead to citizenship. A senior administration official stated that these changes aim to reduce bureaucracy and the difficulties associated with leaving the country. However, the administration acknowledged that only Congress can implement comprehensive immigration reform.
Republicans have criticized the new rules, arguing that Biden is attempting to gain electoral favor and protect undocumented immigrants from deportation. Previous bipartisan immigration reform efforts led by Biden faltered when Republicans withdrew. Biden has also faced backlash and legal challenges for an executive order limiting asylum seekers at the border.
Additionally, the administration plans to make it easier for “Dreamers”—those brought to the U.S. illegally as children—to obtain work visas if they have graduated from college and secured high-skilled employment.
