Biden Announces New Immigration Measures Impacting Undocumented Spouses and Dreamers
On June 18, 2024, President Joe Biden introduced new immigration policies aimed at assisting undocumented spouses of U.S. citizens and young immigrants, including Dreamers.
Key Elements and Impact:
Undocumented Spouses:
- Eligibility: Immigrants married to U.S. citizens and residing in the U.S. for at least 10 years as of June 17, 2024.
- Benefits: Eligible spouses will receive a three-year work permit and protection from deportation while they apply for permanent residency.
- Estimates: Approximately 500,000 spouses and 50,000 stepchildren could benefit.
Dreamers:
- Target Group: Young immigrants, particularly beneficiaries of the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program.
- Benefits: Easier access to work visas and potential pathways to employer-sponsored green cards.
Specifics for Indian Immigrants:
- Indian nationals, who are the third-largest group of undocumented immigrants in the U.S., will benefit if they meet the eligibility criteria.
New H-1B Visa Rules: - The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) is preparing updated rules for the H-1B visa. - Anticipated Provisions: - Redefining specialty occupations to require specific degree-related roles, potentially restricting many skilled professionals. - Introduction of substantial fees for H-1B and L-1 visa extensions.
These immigration measures are intended to provide relief and a more straightforward path to legal status for eligible groups, while ongoing changes to the H-1B visa are expected later this year. The new policies will start taking effect later in the summer of 2024.