As summer 2024 winds down, we are anxiously anticipating the start of President Biden’s Keeping Families Together program, set to begin on August 19th.

The program will allow spouses of U.S. citizens who were married as of June 17, 2024 to apply for permanent residency without leaving the U.S. using a process called “parole in place.” Spouses of U.S. citizens who entered the U.S. on a visa already have the option to become permanent residents without leaving the country. However, this program is designed for people who did not come to the U.S. legally, who would normally have to leave the U.S. for an interview at a U.S. embassy or consulate. Parole in place allows them to do the entire process without leaving the U.S. The program can also be used for children and stepchildren.

Applicants for this program must have:

1. Been continuously physically present without admission or parole in the United States for 10 years or more;

2. Have no disqualifying criminal convictions;

3. Not pose a threat to national security and public safety and pass vetting; and

4. Are otherwise eligible to apply for adjustment of status; and merit a favorable exercise of discretion.

There are still many details that have not been announced. Check here for more information as it becomes available.

You can also visit https://www.uscis.gov/keepingfamiliestogether.