Immigrant spouses, stepchildren of US citizens get pathway to greencards

LOS ANGELES – Certain immigrant spouses and stepchildren of US citizens can now apply for temporary legal status without leaving the United States.

The application process for the Biden administration’s “Keeping Families Together” immigration program kicked off on Monday.

Before the program, many  undocumented immigrants who entered the US illegally had to move back to their country of origin and stay there for years before they could return to the US legally.

“This program offers a vital opportunity for undocumented spouses of US citizens who are currently residing in the United States,” said immigration lawyer Arnedo Valera, executive director of the Washington DC-based Global Migrant Heritage Foundation.

“Unlike traditional immigration processes that often require individuals to exit the country and face uncertain reentry, the program allows eligible applicants to stay with their families while their status is adjusted.”

Immigration lawyer and Global Migrant Heritage Foundation Executive Director Arnedo Valera. CONTRIBUTED

Valera said this change is “not just a policy update – it’s a beacon of hope for those who have lived in the shadows for too long.”

However, Valera said it’s important to take note that not everybody who is married to a US citizen is eligible for this program.

“Families need to double check to make sure they qualify for this program,” he said.

Noncitizen spouses of US citizens are eligible if:

• They’ve lived continuously in the country since at least June 17, 2014
• They were married on or before June 17, 2024

Noncitizen stepchildren of US citizens are eligible if:

• They’ve lived continuously in the country since June 17, 2024
• They were under the age of 21 and not married on June 17, 2024
• They have a noncitizen parent who married a U.S. citizen on or before June 17, 2024, or before their 18th birthday

Applicants must have no disqualifying criminal history and must not be considered a threat to public safety, national security or border security.

They also must be in the US. without admission or parole. Applicants must submit biometrics and undergo background checks.

More information is available here.