Federal Government Launches New Immigration Program to Protect Spouses and Stepchildren.
The federal government has begun accepting applications for a new program designed to protect certain undocumented immigrant spouses and stepchildren of U.S. citizens from deportation. The program, known as “parole in place,” is aimed at immigrants who have lived in the U.S. for at least a decade and provides them with a work permit.
Jose Reyes from Battle Creek was among the first to apply when the program opened earlier this week. Reyes, who has lived undocumented in the U.S. since his teenage years and is now married with three children, reported a smooth application process. “There was no problem, everything is in perfect shape,” Reyes told WKAR in Spanish. He added that his attorney was only asked to submit the documents included in the application.
As part of his application, Reyes must prove his decade-long residency in the U.S., provide a clean criminal record, and submit evidence of his marriage to his wife, Lilia. Without legal status, Reyes has been concerned about financial stability, as he does not qualify for benefits such as paid time off and overtime.
“I feel very excited, but at the same time, it’s a bit complicated because now it’s a matter of waiting,” Reyes said.
In June, President Joe Biden introduced the Keeping Families Together initiative through executive action. Despite the program’s launch, some immigration advocates worry about potential legal challenges, similar to those faced by the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program, which is currently under review by the Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals.
Brett Thompson, an immigration attorney in Washtenaw County, advised eligible individuals to act quickly. “If you’re eligible, it’s important to move quickly and get this benefit,” Thompson said. “Once you are granted ‘parole in place,’ you’re eligible to become a permanent resident, even if the program is canceled.”
Previously, undocumented immigrants needed to leave the country to apply for legal status, risking a ten-year reentry ban. “This program is intended to keep families together, especially those who have been here for many years, in some cases decades, but are unable to adjust their status,” said Adonis Flores from Michigan United.
According to the Michigan Immigrant Rights Center, about 10,000 undocumented immigrants in Michigan are eligible for the program, with over half a million nationwide. “It’s really just a three-year recognition of the person’s presence in the U.S. and an employment authorization that’s valid for three years,” explained Susan Reed, director of the Michigan Immigrant Rights Center.
If granted parole, immigrants can apply for a green card without leaving the country. To qualify, applicants must have been continuously present in the U.S. for at least 10 years, be the spouse or stepchild of a U.S. citizen as of June 17, 2024, and have a clean background check.
The Michigan Immigrant Rights Center is offering assistance with the application process for residents of Michigan.
