Joe Biden Set to Announce Thorough Action to Protect Spouses of American Citizens, 'Dreamers' from Deportation
President Joe Biden is set to unveil sweeping executive actions on Tuesday aimed at providing substantial protections and legal pathways for undocumented spouses of American citizens, alongside facilitating work visas for select "Dreamers."
The upcoming policy announcement marks a pivotal moment in Biden's presidency, positioning him to offer deportation shields and work authorization to undocumented spouses who have long lived in the United States, PBS News reports.
This initiative, scheduled to coincide with the 12th anniversary of the Obama-era Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program, underscores Biden's commitment to immigration reform amid a challenging political landscape.
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Comprehensive Relief for Undocumented Spouses
Under Joe Biden's executive action, undocumented spouses of American citizens can apply for legal residency without needing to leave the country, a significant departure from current immigration policies that mandate lengthy separations for undocumented immigrants seeking legal status.
Eligible spouses, who must demonstrate continuous US residency for at least a decade and legal marriage status as of June 17, will undergo individualized evaluations based on specified eligibility criteria, according to The Washington Post.
Once approved, these individuals will have a grace period of approximately three years to pursue permanent residency, during which they will be authorized to work in the US with a renewable three-year permit.
This initiative is poised to provide stability and security to an estimated 500,000 undocumented spouses, offering them a tangible pathway toward permanent integration into American society.
Impact on the DACA Program and Dreamers
In addition to benefiting undocumented spouses, Joe Biden's executive action extends support to "Dreamers," undocumented individuals brought to the US as children by streamlining access to work visas.
Dreamers who meet stringent criteria, including earning degrees from US colleges or universities and securing high-skilled job offers, can apply for these visas. This move aims to bolster legal protections for DACA recipients, affirming their contributions to the US workforce and broader society.
The announcement comes amid heightened political scrutiny over immigration policies, with Joe Biden positioning these measures as a proactive response to longstanding calls for reform, CNN noted.
The policy's potential impact on Latino communities, a key demographic in US electoral politics, underscores its significance as Biden prepares for upcoming midterm elections.
Democrats view these actions as pivotal in galvanizing support among immigrant communities and advocates while navigating complex legislative landscapes.
While Joe Biden's executive actions represent a significant stride towards inclusive immigration policies, they also face potential legal challenges and political opposition.
Republican critics have historically opposed expansive immigration reforms, highlighting the contentious nature of immigration policy debates in Washington.
Joe Biden's forthcoming announcement of expansive immigration protections for undocumented spouses and Dreamers reflects a strategic effort to fulfill campaign promises and address pressing humanitarian concerns.
By leveraging executive authority to enact these reforms, Biden aims to pave a path towards greater equity and justice within the US immigration system, signaling a pivotal moment in his administration's commitment to inclusive governance and reformative policy agendas.
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This article is owned by Latin Post.
Written by: Ross Key
WATCH: Biden to take executive action to protect undocumented spouses of U.S. citizens - From NBC News
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