2024-06-20-KPMG_Global-United_States_–_President_Biden_Announces_New_Immigration_Policies_4页_215kb

US President Biden Announces New Immigration Policies

On June 18, 2024, US President Joe Biden announced two new immigration policies aimed at strengthening family unity and facilitating employment for certain immigrant groups.

Key Policy 1: Relief for Undocumented Spouses of US Citizens

• This policy allows undocumented spouses and minor stepchildren of US citizens to adjust their immigration status within the United States through "Parole in Place".
• It eliminates the need to depart the US and apply for legal residency abroad, saving time, money, and reducing family disruption.
• Approximately 500,000 undocumented spouses and 50,000 non-citizen stepchildren (under 21) will benefit.
• Eligibility requires continuous presence in the US since June 17, 2024, and other legal criteria.
• Applications for adjustment of status will be available this summer and must be filed within three years.

Key Policy 2: Streamlining Employment Visas for DREAMers

• This initiative simplifies the employment visa application process for DREAMers—including DACA recipients—who hold a US degree and have a related employment offer.
• It aims to ease status changes for individuals without requiring departure from the US, potentially benefiting US-educated graduates.
• No specific details are available yet, but it could provide pathways for some not covered by DACA.

Context and Background

• The policies target DREAMers (young unauthorized immigrants brought to the US as children), with DACA recipients at the forefront of these measures.
• As of December 31, 2023, there were 530,110 active DACA recipients.
• Further updates, including application criteria and public announcements, are expected in the coming weeks.