Anytime there’s a change in political parties in Washington, D.C., it means that there will likely be changes to U.S. immigration policy. This year is no exception as Joe Biden has announced two new-immigration policy plans.
One plan will entail ending the separation of parents and children at U.S. borders. Biden’s intention is to do away with this policy within the first 100 days of his presidency. Biden’s other plan is to reinstate the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals, or DACA, program. The DACA program is designed to provide a pathway to citizenship for people who had migrated to the U.S. as young children.
Changes will take time
The problem with plans is that they are only plans. Taking action and implementing a policy is not something that will happen overnight. It might be possible to accomplish some goals through executive orders. However, other changes will require approval by Congress, and even legislation always faces the threat of a legal challenge.
What does this mean for my family and me?
There’s little doubt that the Biden administration will be more friendly when it comes to immigration policy. However, immigrants and their family members will still face several challenges as they work on establishing a life in the U.S. The process for obtaining a family-based visa or a green card will still be complicated. Trying to navigate the system on your own can be difficult. You should discuss your immigration needs with a skilled legal professional. Together, you can help figure out the best path forward for your case.