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President Joe Biden announced Tuesday that certain foreigners married to U.S. citizens and their children can now apply for green cards without leaving the U.S. This new policy aims to assist noncitizens who have lived in the U.S. for at least 10 years as of June 17, 2024, and are legally married to U.S. citizens. Applicants will be assessed on a case-by-case basis, and if approved, they will be granted three years to apply for permanent residency while receiving work authorization, according to a fact sheet from the White House.

Biden to ease immigration pathway for spouses of US citizens : New Policy Details

The policy, designed to promote family unity and strengthen the economy, will significantly benefit U.S. citizens and their noncitizen family members. The fact sheet noted that approximately 500,000 foreign spouses and 50,000 youth under 21 will benefit from this measure.

Biden to ease immigration pathway for spouses of US citizens : Eligibility and Requirements

Foreigners with U.S. citizen spouses can only apply from inside the U.S. if they have been lawfully admitted. Those who entered the country without inspection must leave and apply for the green card from abroad, facing a potential 10-year ban for unauthorized entry.

Work Visa Process Acceleration

In addition, the White House announced it will expedite the work visa process for immigrants with U.S. college degrees and job offers in their field of study. This includes individuals with temporary deportation protections and work authorization from the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program, which grants temporary work permits and protection from deportation for unauthorized noncitizens brought to the U.S. as children.

Impact on Employers and Economy

While details of the sped-up process were not immediately provided, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) stated it would partner with the U.S. Department of State. "By clarifying and enhancing the existing process, the Department of State's policy will give U.S. employers increased confidence that they can hire the talent they need, and that they will be able to quickly get to work," DHS said.

Advocacy Group Support

The Florida Immigrant Coalition, an advocacy group, welcomed the announcements, highlighting the positive economic impact. "500,000 individuals with diverse talents will now be on a path to a work authorization, propelling economic growth in several industries that have been struggling with labor shortages for several years," the coalition's deputy director, Renata Bozzetto, said in a statement.

Biden to ease immigration pathway for spouses of US citizens : Conclusion

President Biden's new policy to ease the immigration pathway for spouses of U.S. citizens marks a significant shift in immigration policy, promoting family unity and economic growth. By allowing foreign spouses to apply for green cards without leaving the country and speeding up the work visa process, this initiative aims to address labor shortages and strengthen the nation's workforce.