What could change for immigration with the new government?

What are the possible changes we can expect on immigration with Joe Biden swearing-in as the U.S. president? At Quiroga Law Office, PLLC, we will tell you.

2020 was a crucial year for immigrants. We saw how the Trump administration attacked us over and over again. But we also witnessed that the courts were there to protect us, and we even took part in some significant victories.

2021 comes with it a hope: the change of administration is likely favorable to immigration policy, and that might be increasingly committed to us, our hopes, and wishes.

This week Joseph R. Biden swears in as the 46th President of The United States of America. His victory, vote to vote, presents us new scenarios in several matters, immigration included.

First 100 Days of Biden Immigration Plan

We know that this period is essential to understand the policies of a new president. Biden will be no exception.

The first 100 days of each government will show a glimpse of what his government will be in his 4-year term.

These are the most important proposals that Biden has made regarding the immigration policy for the United States:

Reverse Trump’s Public Charge Rule. It is currently one of the most common inadmissibility grounds for new immigrants. This policy limits entry to immigrants if they are likely to be dependent on public benefits.

Protect DACA and dreamers’ families. Despite multiple attempts to terminate the program, DACA was restored in November 2020. Biden has promised that DACA would offer a path to citizenship for its recipients.

Rescind the travel ban. Since 2017, travel to the U.S. has been limited for people from certain countries, most of them, of Muslim or African origin. Biden would remove this ban, applying current immigration law for foreigners.

Stop construction of the Southern Border Wall. Biden is expected to end the “National Emergency” declared by Trump to divert federal funds to the construction of the wall in the southern states.

Repair asylum and TPS policies. The current policies restrict and limit asylum applications to people fleeing their countries for safety reasons. Biden has promised a more humane system that prevents the separation of families at the borders.

Redirect enforcement priorities. The Biden administration is also expected to end enforcement policies that target immigrants who have never been convicted of serious crimes, concentrating ICE towards real threats to public and national safety.

Expedite naturalization for permanent residents. Biden is betting on a more accessible naturalization process for immigrants who already have a Green Card and are eligible. By removing obstacles and optimizing adjudications, new citizens would have access, like the right to vote.

Biden’s Immigration Reform

As Vice President, Biden supported the immigration reform proposal that failed in the House of Representatives in 2013. It is expected that this bill will likely include some of it to benefit the immigrants in the country.

One of the long-term goals of immigration, according to Biden, is to preserve family unity. Additionally, other crucial points of the reform would seek to:

• Build paths to citizenship for undocumented immigrants.
• Increase visas for victims of violence and abuse (U, T, Visa, VAWA).
• Restore the permanent work immigration visa system.
• Protect American and immigrant workers alike.

These are the essential points in the Biden administration’s Immigration Plan. Please note that while they go into effect, USCIS will continue to process immigration applications and paperwork.

If you or someone in your family currently has a current immigration process, consult with an immigration attorney to assess how the new administration may affect you and to evaluate the possibilities of your case.

Remember that at Quiroga Law Office, PLLC, we are willing to help. We can advise you about the immigration procedures that you and your family need.

Do not hesitate to contact us. Our team of lawyers will take care of your case and will be with you throughout the process.

Request a consultation or call us, (509) 498-3485.