DHS Implements Keeping Families Together Initiative to Support Noncitizen Spouses and Stepchildren of U.S. Citizens

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) announced today the implementation of the
‘Keeping Families Together’; initiative, as outlined in a Federal Register notice. This new
process is designed to provide a pathway for certain noncitizen spouses and stepchildren of
U.S. citizens to remain in the United States, promoting family unity and stability.

The initiative aligns with the DHS’s broader objectives of enhancing the economic prosperity of American
communities, strengthening diplomatic relations with partner countries, reducing the strain on
U.S. government resources, and advancing national security, public safety, and border security
goals.

Addressing Undue Barriers in the Immigration System

“Too often, noncitizen spouses of U.S. citizens—many of them mothers and fathers—live with
uncertainty due to undue barriers in our immigration system,” said Ur M. Jaddou, Director of U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).

“This process to keep U.S. families together will remove these undue barriers for those who would otherwise qualify to live and work lawfully in the U.S., while also creating greater efficiencies in the immigration system,
conducting effective screening and vetting, and focusing on noncitizens who contribute to and
have long standing connections within American communities across the country.”

Eligibility and Application Process

Starting on August 19, 2024, USCIS will begin accepting applications from eligible noncitizen
spouses and stepchildren of U.S. citizens under the Keeping Families Together initiative.

To participate, individuals must file Form I-131F, Application for Parole in Place for Certain
Noncitizen Spouses and Stepchildren of U.S. Citizens, online through a myUSCIS account. The
filing fee for this form is $580, and fee waiver requests will not be accepted.

Eligibility Criteria for Noncitizen Spouses:
● Must be present in the United States without admission or parole.
● Must have been continuously physically present in the United States since at least June
17, 2014, through the date of filing the request.
● Must have a legally valid marriage to a U.S. citizen on or before June 17, 2024.
● Must have no disqualifying criminal history and not be deemed a threat to public safety,
national security, or border security.
● Must submit biometrics and undergo required background checks and national security
and public safety vetting.
Eligibility Criteria for Noncitizen Stepchildren:
● Must have been under the age of 21 and unmarried on June 17, 2024.
● Must be present in the United States without admission or parole.
● Must have been continuously physically present in the United States since at least June
17, 2024, through the date of filing the request.
● Must have a non-citizen parent who entered into a legally valid marriage with a U.S.
citizen on or before June 17, 2024, and before their 18th birthday.
● Must have no disqualifying criminal history and not be deemed a threat to public safety,
national security, or border security.
● Must submit biometrics and undergo required background checks and national security
and public safety vetting.

Commitment to Integrity and Fraud Prevention

USCIS is dedicated to ensuring the integrity of this program by implementing stringent
measures to detect and prevent fraud. USCIS will employ rigorous procedures to review
submitted evidence supporting the existence of a legally valid marriage and to identify potential
fraud concerns. The agency is committed to ensuring that fraudulent marriages do not serve as
the basis for granting adjustment of status under this process.

Impact of Keeping Families Together

DHS estimates that approximately 500,000 noncitizen spouses and 50,000 noncitizen
stepchildren of U.S. citizens may meet the eligibility criteria for this initiative. If granted parole,
these individuals may apply for lawful permanent residence without the need to leave the United
States.

Keeping Families Together is consistent with longstanding, congressionally supported policies,
including similar processes for family members of certain U.S. military personnel and veterans.
For more information on the eligibility criteria, application process, and required evidence,
USCIS has published detailed guidance on the Keeping Families Together page.

Applicants are encouraged to create an online account and file Form I-131F online to participate in this program. USCIS also provides tips on how to avoid scams during the application process.

OnlineVisas: Your Partner in Navigating U.S. Immigration

Navigating the complexities of U.S. immigration law can be challenging, especially with new
initiatives like Keeping Families Together. At OnlineVisas, we specialize in helping individuals
and families achieve their immigration goals with expert guidance and personalized strategies.
If you or your loved ones are eligible for this new process, don’t hesitate to reach out to us.

Book your slot now and secure your Strategy Session with one of our experienced immigration
attorneys. Let us help you keep your family together and successfully navigate the path to lawful
permanent residence in the United States.

The Keeping Families Together initiative represents a significant step forward in promoting
family unity and stability within the U.S. immigration system. By providing a pathway for
noncitizen spouses and stepchildren of U.S. citizens to remain in the country, this process not
only strengthens American communities but also aligns with broader national security and public
safety objectives. With the support of experienced legal professionals, eligible individuals can
confidently navigate this process and achieve their immigration goals. Contact OnlineVisas
today to learn more and begin your journey towards a secure future in the United States.