New DHS Actions to Promote Family Unity in Immigration

We have some important news to share with you. On June 18, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) announced new actions to help keep families together during the immigration process. This is part of the Biden-Harris administration's commitment to family unity. 

New Parole Process for Noncitizen Spouses 

Starting August 19, DHS will accept applications for parole from noncitizen spouses of U.S. citizens who have lived in the U.S. for at least 10 years. If granted, these spouses can apply for lawful permanent residence without leaving the U.S. 

Key Eligibility Criteria: 

To be eligible, you must: 

• Be in the U.S. without admission or parole. 

• Have lived in the U.S. continuously for at least 10 years by June 17, 2024. 

• Be legally married to a U.S. citizen as of June 17, 2024. 

• Have no serious criminal history or pose a threat to public safety. 

• Qualify for a favorable exercise of discretion. 

• Not have any disqualifying criminal history or otherwise constitute a threat to national security or public safety 

Certain noncitizen children may also qualify if they meet specific criteria. 

What You Can Do Now 

Although applications are not open yet, you can prepare by gathering the necessary documents, such as: 

• Proof of your marriage to a U.S. citizen (marriage certificate). 

• Proof of your identity (driver’s license, passport, etc.). 

• Proof of your spouse’s U.S. citizenship (passport, birth certificate, etc.). 

• Documentation of your continuous presence in the U.S. for at least 10 years (rent receipts, school records, medical records, etc.). 

More information will be available soon in the Federal Register notice. 

Beware of Scams 

Be cautious of scams. Applications are not open yet, and no one should be charging you for services to file early applications. Only licensed attorneys or accredited representatives can provide legal advice. 

Remember: 

• Do not pay for government forms; they are free at www.uscis.gov/forms. 

• Get written agreements and receipts for any services. 

• USCIS will not contact you via social media, only through official government channels. 

Stay informed and protect yourself from fraud. For more details, visit the US Citizenship and Immigration Services page on avoiding scams. 

We are here to help you through this process. If you have any questions, please contact the Law Office of Rosemary Vega.