The Biden administration has eased norms by releasing policy guidance on the eligibility criteria for those waiting for green cards to work and stay in America, days ahead of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to the US. The US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) guidance enables foreign nationals with a green card in the family preference category who cannot obtain employment-based immigrant visas due to lengthy wait times to apply for employment authorization. Applicants must meet specific criteria, including having an approved Form I-140, being in a valid nonimmigrant status or authorized grace period, not having filed an adjustment of status application, meeting certain biometrics and criminal background requirements, as well as demonstrating compelling circumstances justifying the issuance of employment authorization.
There are currently 13.6 million permanent residents in the United States with a green card, allowing them to live and work legally in the country. However, according to a new report by Boundless, many need to take advantage of their citizenship rights or naturalization options. The new measures announced by the USCIS aim to encourage those eligible to become US citizens and support local communities in educating people on their citizenship options.
The administration is also reducing bureaucratic barriers to naturalization, such as making it easier for people to obtain their Social Security number and providing better access to naturalization assistance programs. These measures encourage green-card holders to apply for citizenship to contribute more fully to the nation’s economy and be a part of the American community.
In addition to easing the rules for green card holders to apply for citizenship, the administration is also working to make it easier for people on nonimmigrant visas to become permanent residents. This includes removing a restriction on the ability of individuals to sponsor their spouses for green cards if they have been convicted of a crime that would disqualify them from becoming a citizen and clarifying the definition of “aggravated felony” so that it excludes some crimes more clearly than it does now.
Refugees and asylees who have served the country for at least a year can get a green card once they complete various procedures and undergo an interview with the USCIS. The children and spouses of refugees and asylees can also receive a green card once they complete the same process.
The USCIS announcement comes as President Joe Biden and First Lady Jill Biden prepare to host Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi for a four-day state visit to the US from June 21-24. The Bidens will welcome PM Modi to Blair House, the President’s official guest residence, within walking distance of the White House. The visit will include a state dinner on June 22, in which PM Modi will meet the CEOs of some of the top 20 American companies, including Mastercard, Accenture, and Adobe Systems.
