Frequently Asked Question

President Biden's recent immigration policy, announced in June 2024, introduces significant changes aimed at keeping families together and expanding opportunities for certain noncitizens already living in the U.S. legally. The key aspects of the new policy include:

1. Parole in Place for Undocumented Spouses and Children: Noncitizen spouses and children of U.S. citizens, who have lived in the U.S. for at least ten years, can apply for "Parole in Place." This status allows them to remain in the country while applying for lawful permanent residence (a green card) without having to leave the U.S. They will also be eligible for work authorization during this period. This policy affects roughly half a million spouses and 50,000 children​ (The White House, KPMG).
2. Easing Visa Processes for U.S. College Graduates: The administration is also working on policies to make it easier for certain graduates, including DACA recipients (Dreamers), to obtain work visas. These individuals, who were brought to the U.S. as children, can benefit from a streamlined process to apply for work visas if they have secured a job related to their degree​(KPMG).

However, the policy has faced legal challenges. A coalition of 16 states, led by Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton, has sued the Biden administration, arguing that the policy unlawfully circumvents federal law by allowing illegal immigrants to apply for permanent residency without leaving the country. The lawsuit contends that this policy violates the Constitution and existing immigration laws​(Texas Attorney General). These policies are part of the Biden administration's broader efforts to balance border security with creating more lawful pathways for long-term undocumented residents in the U.S.