Final Rule Released: Act Now to Keep Your Family Together

On August 19, 2024, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) officially implemented the “Keeping Families Together” program, a significant new immigration relief initiative designed to reunite and stabilize families of U.S. citizens. If you or someone you know is a noncitizen spouse or stepchild of a U.S. citizen, now is the time to act. The final rules are now in place, and the program is fully operational, providing a path for eligible individuals to live and work lawfully in the United States.

What You Need to Know About the Keeping Families Together Program

This initiative was created to address the uncertainties and challenges faced by noncitizen spouses and stepchildren of U.S. citizens. Ur M. Jaddou, Director of U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), emphasized that this program will remove undue barriers in the immigration system, promote family unity, and contribute to the economic prosperity of American communities. The program also aims to strengthen national security, public safety, and border security.

USCIS is now accepting applications under this program, and eligible individuals must file Form I-131F, Application for Parole in Place for Certain Noncitizen Spouses and Stepchildren of U.S. Citizens. The filing fee is $580, and applications must be submitted online through a myUSCIS account. It’s important to note that fee waiver requests for Form I-131F will not be accepted.

Eligibility Criteria: Are You Eligible?

To ensure that your application is successful, it’s crucial to understand the specific eligibility criteria:

For Noncitizen Spouses:

• You must be physically present in the United States without admission or parole.
• You must have been continuously physically present in the United States since at least June 17, 2014, through the date of filing.
• You must have a legally valid marriage to a U.S. citizen on or before June 17, 2024.
• You must have no disqualifying criminal history and must not be deemed a threat to public safety, national security, or border security.
• You must submit biometrics and undergo required background checks and vetting.

For Noncitizen Stepchildren:

• You must have been under the age of 21 and unmarried on June 17, 2024.
• You must be physically present in the United States without admission or parole.
• You must have been continuously physically present in the United States since at least June 17, 2024, through the date of filing.
• You must have a noncitizen parent who entered into a legally valid marriage with a U.S. citizen on or before June 17, 2024, and before your 18th birthday.
• You must have no disqualifying criminal history and must not be deemed a threat to public safety, national security, or border security.
• You must submit biometrics and undergo required background checks and vetting.

For current information on policies like Parole in Place and H1-B access, check out this helpful update from Immigrant ARC here.

Next Steps: Why You Should Act Now

The “Keeping Families Together” program is expected to benefit approximately 500,000 noncitizen spouses and 50,000 noncitizen stepchildren of U.S. citizens. This is a tremendous opportunity for those who meet the criteria to secure their future in the United States without the fear of separation from their families. If granted parole under this program, eligible individuals may apply for lawful permanent residence without leaving the country.

Given the rigorous procedures employed by USCIS to detect fraud and ensure the integrity of the program, it’s crucial to get expert advice to guide you through the process. The final rules are now in effect, and the application process is fully operational. We strongly encourage you to take action immediately.

Schedule a Consultation Today

Navigating the complexities of immigration law can be overwhelming, but you don’t have to do it alone. If you believe you or a loved one may be eligible for the “Keeping Families Together” program, contact us today to schedule a consultation. Our experienced legal team is here to help you understand your options, prepare your application, and ensure that you meet all eligibility requirements.

Don’t delay—reach out to us now to protect your family’s future and take advantage of this critical opportunity.

For more information, please visit the USCIS website.

About The Author

Conrad E. Pollack

Conrad E. Pollack is the Managing Partner and Director of Immigration at Pollack, Pollack, Isaac & DeCicco, LLP. He graduated Magna Cum Laude from New York University and earned his J.D. from Brooklyn Law School. With over three decades of experience in immigration law, Conrad has helped countless clients achieve their American Dream. Under his leadership, PPID has expanded significantly, opening new offices in Peekskill and Brooklyn, NY. He is a member of the American Immigration Lawyers Association and has been recognized for his professional excellence with numerous awards and distinctions. Education: Magna Cum Laude graduate from New York University; J.D. from Brooklyn Law School. Awards: Recipient of numerous professional excellence awards. Memberships: Active member of the American Immigration Lawyers Association.

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