Opportunities to pursue citizenship should be equally available to everyone, regardless of where they were born or when they arrived. On June 18, the Biden administration announced new legal protections for certain undocumented spouses of U.S. citizens and a limited group of young individuals. This marks a step toward a more welcoming immigration system that treats families with the respect and dignity they deserve.

This new “parole in place” policy has the potential to change lives for an estimated 480,000 people. However, it only benefits about 4% of the 12 million immigrants living in the U.S. without a legal pathway forward—leaving millions still in limbo. While this step is essential, it is just the beginning of what is needed to create a fair immigration system.

What You Should Know About the New Policy

1. The process is still being developed. There is currently no formal process for applying for parole in place. It’s expected that rules and guidelines will be published by late summer or early fall. Until then, individuals will have to wait for further instructions on how to apply. The government first needs to establish a structured process, including specific requirements for eligibility.

2. Two categories of individuals may qualify:

• Category 1: Undocumented spouses and some undocumented children of U.S. citizens may be eligible. This could allow them to obtain a work permit and, in some cases, open a pathway to legal permanent residency.
• Category 2: People with a U.S. college degree and a job offer in their field might be eligible for a work visa. This visa could help them attain legal permanent residency more quickly.

To qualify, individuals must meet specific conditions. As of June 17, 2024, applicants must have lived in the U.S. for at least 10 years and be legally married to a U.S. citizen, along with satisfying other legal requirements.

AFSC urges all potential applicants to attend Know Your Rights presentations by trusted organizations and consult with a qualified immigration attorney to assess their eligibility and avoid any issues with their immigration status.

3. The new policy is a positive but limited step. The parole program is a small yet important move toward creating a more compassionate immigration system. However, this policy addresses only a fraction of those who need relief. We need long-term solutions that ensure safety, security, and respect for all members of our communities.

The Call for Action: Citizenship for All

The Biden administration and Congress must urgently take more substantial steps toward a fairer immigration system. We need policies that allow all families to stay together and give all people living in the U.S. the opportunity to live and work with dignity.

Citizenship should not be limited to a select few. We must continue to advocate for citizenship for everyone—whether they’re undocumented, have temporary status through TPS, DACA, or DED, or are seeking safety and peace in the U.S.

Join Us: Demand Change Now is the time to push for legislative action. We need laws that ensure all families can remain together, and all individuals can work and live without fear. Let’s demand that the Biden administration and Congress prioritize humane immigration reform. It’s not just a step we need—it’s a leap toward justice and fairness for all.