News Update: More Details on DHS Family Unity Initiative Released
Larsen Immigration Law Group
On July 17, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) provided a heads-up on the upcoming application process for the Department of Homeland Security's (DHS) new initiative aimed at promoting family unity within the immigration system. This initiative introduces a process for considering requests for parole in place on a case-by-case basis for certain noncitizen spouses of U.S. citizens who have resided in the U.S. for at least ten years.
If granted parole, eligible noncitizens can apply for lawful permanent residence without needing to leave the United States. However, applications are not yet being accepted; USCIS will start receiving them beginning August 19. Early applications submitted before this date will be rejected.
Eligibility Criteria and Application Details
To qualify for parole under this initiative, applicants must meet several criteria, including:
- Being present in the U.S. without admission or parole.
- Having continuously lived in the U.S. for at least ten years as of June 17, 2024.
- Holding a legally valid marriage to a U.S. citizen as of June 17, 2024.
- Having no disqualifying criminal history and not posing a threat to national security or public safety.
- Demonstrating eligibility for a favorable exercise of discretion.
Further specifics on eligibility and the application process will be detailed in an upcoming Federal Register notice.
Preparing for the Application
While awaiting the official release, interested individuals can begin preparing by gathering necessary documentation, such as proof of marriage to a U.S. citizen, identification documents, and evidence of continuous U.S. residence.
Children of Eligible Individuals
Children of eligible individuals may also be considered under this initiative if they meet specific criteria, including proof of relationship and presence in the U.S. as of June 17, 2024.
Contact Information
For more information and guidance on this initiative, individuals are encouraged to contact Larsen Immigration Law Group at 512-648-9115 or via email at info@larsenimmigration.com.
Stay Informed
Updates on the initiative will be provided on the DHS website's "Process to Promote the Unity and Stability of Families" page as information becomes available.
This policy was first announced by DHS in June.
Immigration law changes rapidly. This article is for informational purposes only, reflects the law as of its publication date, and may be superseded by later changes in the law, regulations or agency policy. It is not legal advice, and reading it does not create an attorney-client relationship.La ley de inmigración cambia rápidamente. Este artículo es solo para fines informativos, refleja la ley a la fecha de su publicación y puede quedar superado por cambios posteriores en la ley, las regulaciones o las políticas de las agencias. No es asesoría legal, y leerlo no crea una relación abogado-cliente.