President Biden’s new immigration policy protects about 500,000 people married to U.S. citizens from deportation and provides them with a path to citizenship.
The move, in an election year, comes just two weeks after President Biden launched a major crackdown on the U.S.-Mexico border, cutting off access to asylum for people who crossed into the U.S. illegally.
The policy announced Tuesday targets people who have lived in the U.S. for more than 10 years and have built their lives and families here.
Here’s how it works:
Why do spouses of U.S. citizens need protection?
Marrying a U.S. citizen generally provides a pathway to U.S. citizenship. But people who cross the southern border illegally without a visa must return to their home country to complete the green card process, which can take years. The new program allows families to remain in the country while they pursue legal status.
Who is eligible?
According to immigration advocacy group Fwd.us, there are approximately 1.1 million undocumented immigrants married to U.S. citizens, but not all of them are eligible for the program.
Your spouse must have lived in the United States for 10 years and be married to a U.S. citizen as of June 17. They cannot have a criminal record. Officials estimate the policy would provide legal status and protection to about 500,000 people. This benefit also extends to the approximately 50,000 children of undocumented spouses who become stepchildren of U.S. citizens.
When will the program be implemented?
Biden administration officials said they expect the program to begin by the end of the summer. Eligible people can then apply for benefits.
Why is President Biden doing this now?
Mr. Biden is trying to strike a tricky balance on immigration, a serious political vulnerability for him. Polls show Americans want stronger policies. Just two weeks ago, Mr. Biden announced a crackdown on asylum seekers at the southern border.
His new policy, which provides new legal protections for hundreds of thousands of immigrants, is his way of responding to calls from Democratic progressives who have accused the White House of betraying campaign promises to enact a more humane approach to immigrants. .
