Biden Plans Work Permits And Protections For Undocumented Spouses
President Joe Biden is expected to announce new immigration policies that would grant work permits and deportation protections to undocumented spouses of U.S. citizens. The White House is set to unveil these measures next week as part of Biden’s broader effort to balance border security with compassionate immigration reforms.
The proposed plan involves using Biden’s executive powers to implement “parole-in-place,” which offers deportation protections and work permits to qualifying immigrants. This policy also helps them on the path to obtaining green cards and U.S. citizenship. The administration has previously applied this measure to immigrants associated with U.S. military members.
White House officials are focusing on providing these benefits to spouses of U.S. citizens who have been in the country for at least five to ten years. While the details are still being finalized, the plan is expected to be announced soon. An official noted that Biden has not yet approved the final proposal, adding to the uncertainty regarding the timing of the announcement.
At a recent White House event, Biden hinted at upcoming actions to improve the immigration system. “In the weeks ahead, I will speak to how we can make our immigration system more fair and more just,” Biden said, emphasizing the administration’s commitment to reform.
The immigrant advocacy group FWD.us estimates that there are about 1.1 million undocumented immigrants married to U.S. citizens. However, the number of people who might qualify for Biden’s plan could be smaller based on specific eligibility criteria.
In addition to the protections for spouses, advocates are lobbying for benefits for undocumented immigrants who serve as caregivers to American family members. Although this provision is less likely to be included, it would allow caregivers to apply for “cancellation of removal,” benefiting those who support family members with particular needs or disabilities.
The White House has scheduled an event for next Tuesday to mark the 12th anniversary of the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program, which protects young immigrants, known as “Dreamers,” from deportation. This celebration highlights the administration’s ongoing efforts to address immigration issues.
The proposed measures are likely to generate significant discussion. While supporters argue that these steps are necessary to create a more just immigration system, critics may contend that they weaken border security efforts. The impact of these policies will be closely watched as they develop, affecting many undocumented immigrants living in the United States.