Biden to Propose Legal Status for Undocumented Immigrants Residing in the U.S. for a Decade

The Biden administration is getting ready to unveil a program that may drastically change the lives of hundreds of thousands of unauthorized immigrants, marking a big step towards comprehensive immigration reform. This proposal aims to offer legal status to individuals who have resided in the U.S. for ten years or more. It is expected to be one of the biggest immigration relief initiatives in recent history. The “Parole in Place” proposal is supposed to protect undocumented immigrants from deportation and offer them work permits.

The “Parole in Place” Program

Key Components

For undocumented immigrants who have been married to residents of the United States and have lived in the nation for at least ten years, the “Parole in Place” program is intended to grant them legal status. By removing present legal obstacles, this plan would also enable individuals to gain permanent legal status and U.S. citizenship. Furthermore, it will allow those who entered the country illegally to receive green cards without having to leave.

Potential Impact

Since former President Barack Obama’s Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program was announced in 2012, the program is expected to be the most significant immigration endeavor. Approximately 530,000 unauthorized immigrants, also referred to as DREAMers, are currently shielded from deportation by DACA. If they fulfill the residency and other requirements, a sizable portion of the estimated 1.1 million undocumented immigrants with American citizen spouses could also benefit from the “Parole in Place” program.

Streamlining the Process for DREAMers

In addition to the “Parole in Place” program, the Biden administration is creating a second plan to make it easier for DREAMers and other undocumented immigrants to apply for temporary visas. One way to facilitate obtaining H-1B visas for highly qualified individuals is to simplify the waiver request process. These efforts are part of a larger plan to alleviate the difficulties associated with the present immigration system and give people living in the shadows some relief.

Political and Legal Challenges

Congressional Reaction

The announcement of the “Parole in Place” is anticipated to be met with mixed reactions. The new policy is expected to be presented during an event celebrating the DACA program’s 12th anniversary at the White House, to which Democratic senators have been invited. Republican lawmakers are likely to strongly oppose the proposal. They have continuously opposed policies that they perceive as granting amnesty to those who are in the country illegally.

Legal Hurdles

The “Parole in Place” program is expected to encounter early legal hurdles, just as President Biden’s recent executive action on asylum applications at the southern border did. Advocacy organizations and states with Republican governors could sue the program, claiming it exceeds executive authority. As a result of these legal disputes, the policy’s implementation may be delayed or changed.

Implications for the 2024 Presidential Election

President Biden’s administration’s immigration policies are expected to have a significant impact on public opinion as he gets ready for the November presidential election. Support among Latino voters may be strengthened by the “Parole in Place” program, especially from those in mixed-status households who will directly profit from the law. President Biden seeks to address a long-standing problem that Congress has consistently failed to solve by implementing executive action on immigration.

Our Expert Legal Services

An important first step in resolving the difficulties with the country’s immigration system is the Biden administration’s proposal to award legal status to unauthorized immigrants who have been in the country for ten years or more. The “Parole in Place” program and other comparable measures show the administration’s dedication to helping those who have long been a part of the American fabric, even though they may encounter political and legal obstacles. The possible effects of these policies on the lives of innumerable people and families cannot be emphasized, especially while the country waits for the official announcement. 

TEZ Law Firm provides expert legal services and support for immigration-related matters. Contact us for more information on how we, as your immigration attorney near me, can assist you with your immigration needs!