The new process aims to strengthen family unity, enhance economic stability, and bolster national security
In a landmark move aimed at fostering family unity and promoting economic stability, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has announced the implementation of the "Keeping Families Together" initiative.
This new process offers a pathway for certain noncitizen spouses and stepchildren of U.S. citizens to remain in the United States lawfully. The initiative seeks to eliminate undue barriers within the immigration system, thereby providing stability for families while enhancing national security and public safety.
The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) will begin accepting requests for this process on August 19, 2024, offering a new hope for thousands of families living in uncertainty.
Supporting family unity and economic prosperity
The DHS "Keeping Families Together" initiative reflects the DHS's commitment to ensuring that U.S. citizens can live with their loved ones without the constant fear of separation. Ur M. Jaddou, Director of USCIS, emphasized the importance of this initiative, stating, "Too often, noncitizen spouses of U.S. citizens – many of them mothers and fathers – live with uncertainty due to undue barriers in our immigration system."
The new process aims to remove these obstacles, allowing those who meet the criteria to live and work lawfully in the U.S. This move is expected to have a positive ripple effect on American communities by increasing economic prosperity and strengthening diplomatic relationships with partner countries in the region.
To participate in the "Keeping Families Together" initiative, noncitizen spouses and stepchildren of U.S. citizens must meet specific eligibility criteria. For noncitizen spouses, the requirements include being present in the United States without admission or parole, continuous physical presence in the country since at least June 17, 2014, a legally valid marriage to a U.S. citizen on or before June 17, 2024, and no disqualifying criminal history.
Noncitizen stepchildren must have been under 21 and unmarried as of June 17, 2024, be present in the U.S. without admission or parole, and have a noncitizen parent married to a U.S. citizen before the child’s 18th birthday.
Eligible individuals must file Form I-131F, Application for Parole in Place for Certain Noncitizen Spouses and Stepchildren of U.S. Citizens, online via the myUSCIS portal. The filing fee is $580, and USCIS will not accept fee waiver requests for this form.
In addition to submitting the form, applicants are required to provide biometrics and undergo rigorous background checks to ensure they do not pose a threat to public safety or national security. USCIS is committed to maintaining the integrity of the program, utilizing existing training and practices to detect and prevent fraudulent activity.
Impact and long-term benefits
DHS estimates that approximately 500,000 noncitizen spouses and 50,000 noncitizen stepchildren of U.S. citizens may qualify under this initiative. For those granted parole, this process opens the door to applying for lawful permanent residence without the need to leave the United States. This outcome aligns with longstanding, congressionally supported policies, including similar provisions for family members of U.S. military personnel and veterans.
The potential benefits of the DHS "Keeping Families Together" initiative extend beyond individual families. By allowing these individuals to remain in the country, the initiative is expected to contribute to the economic vitality of American communities.
Noncitizens who can work lawfully will be better positioned to support their families and contribute to the local economy, thereby fostering stability and growth. Additionally, the initiative strengthens the social fabric by ensuring that families can stay together, which is vital for community cohesion.
USCIS has made additional resources available to assist eligible individuals with the application process. This includes detailed information on the eligibility criteria, required documentation, and how to create an online account and submit Form I-131F. The agency also provides guidance on how to avoid scams and fraudulent activities, which is particularly important given the complexities of the immigration system.
As the DHS moves forward with the "Keeping Families Together" initiative, it is clear that this policy change represents a significant step toward a more just and compassionate immigration system. Families who have lived in the shadows for years now have a pathway to legal status, offering hope and stability for their futures.
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