“Keeping Families Together” Program Update, The Impact of the Election, & More
Impact of 2nd Trump Administration on Family Immigration
The re-election of Donald Trump for a 2nd term will have an impact on family immigration. At this time, there is still uncertainty about the policies the new Trump administration will put into place.
However, based on policies enacted during the 2016-2020 Trump administration, we can expect changes to the government’s priorities in removal cases, possible suspension of protection through programs such as Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA), Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for certain countries that were rescinded previously, such as El Salvador and Honduras, longer processing times for applications and petitions, and increased scrutiny for Naturalization (citizenship) processes.
Federal Judge Blocks “Keeping Families Together” Program
On November 8, 2024, a Texas federal judge blocked the Biden administration’s “Keeping Families Together” or “Parole-in-Place” program, which allowed noncitizen spouses and stepchildren of U.S. citizens to remain in the U.S. while applying for green cards and work permits.
This decision could lead to family separations, as affected noncitizen spouses and stepchildren may now be required to leave the U.S. to complete their immigration processes. With this ruling, many families are left uncertain about their future. As policies continue to evolve, Monty & Ramirez LLP is dedicated to helping families navigate these complex changes.
New DHS Protections for Lebanese Nationals in the U.S.: TPS and DED Now in Effect
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has announced new immigration relief measures for Lebanese nationals residing in the U.S., including Temporary Protected Status (TPS) and Deferred Enforced Departure (DED). Lebanese nationals who have been continuously residing in the U.S. since October 16, 2024, can now apply for TPS. The DED program, previously announced in July 2024, also provides protection and eligibility for Employment Authorization Documents (EADs). Specific application details for TPS will be available soon in a forthcoming Federal Register notice.
F-1 nonimmigrant students from Lebanon are eligible for Special Student Relief, allowing them to work more hours and reduce their course load while maintaining their F-1 status. These new protections will assist approximately 11,000 Lebanese nationals and over 1,700 Lebanese students currently in the U.S. If you or someone you know is eligible for TPS or DED, Monty & Ramirez LLP can help navigate the application process and provide expert guidance.
USCIS Expands Guidance on Expedite Requests for Immigration Benefits
USCIS has released updated policy guidance clarifying the criteria and procedures for expedite requests, particularly those involving government interests or humanitarian emergencies.
The updated policy also addresses expedite requests due to clear USCIS errors and explains how to submit requests with supporting documentation. With this guidance, applicants are encouraged to provide evidence detailing the critical nature of their need, as USCIS assesses expedite requests individually. Our firm can assist in evaluating eligibility for an expedite request and gathering supporting materials to help navigate this process efficiently.
How to Change Your Address and Form AR-11
The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has recently updated the process for submitting Form AR-11, the Alien’s Change of Address Card, which is required for most noncitizens to notify USCIS of address changes within 10 days of a move. Now, instead of the previous online-only tool, applicants must either use a USCIS online account or submit the AR-11 form by mail. The online account option allows quicker, real-time address changes, while paper submission remains an alternative.
It’s important to update your address with USCIS directly, as the U.S. Postal Service won’t forward USCIS mail. Keeping your address up-to-date helps ensure you receive all correspondence without delays, which is crucial for immigration case updates and benefits. For more details, visit the USCIS Change of Address page.
Record Number of Naturalizations Filed Pre-Election
As the 2024 election season concludes, a record number of naturalization applications were filed leading up to the election, reflecting the surge in interest among individuals eager to participate as new U.S. citizens in future civic duties.
Parents seeking citizenship for their children after naturalizing themselves may also consider filing Form N-600, the Application for Certificate of Citizenship, to confirm their child’s citizenship status. Please contact our office for assistance with your naturalization needs.
November 2024 Visa Bulletin – Final Action Dates
Family-Sponsored Preference Categories
| Category | All Chargeability | China (Mainland) | India | Mexico | Philippines |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| F1 | 22OCT15 | 22OCT15 | 22OCT15 | 22NOV04 | 01MAR12 |
| F2A | 01JAN22 | 01JAN22 | 01JAN22 | 15APR21 | 01JAN22 |
| F2B | 01MAY16 | 01MAY16 | 01MAY16 | 01JUL05 | 22OCT11 |
| F3 | 15APR10 | 15APR10 | 15APR10 | 22OCT00 | 08SEP02 |
| F4 | 01AUG07 | 01AUG07 | 08MAR06 | 01MAR01 | 01FEB04 |
If your priority date is earlier than the listed date, you may be eligible to proceed with Adjustment of Status or a consular interview.
Missed Our D-3 Waiver Webinar?
If you missed immigration partner Sarah Monty’s recent webinar on the 212(d)(3) waiver and easing the visa process for U.S. college graduates and Dreamers, the recording is now available.
▶️ Watch here: YouTube Webinar Link
Upcoming Webinar: The Election’s Impact on Immigration
🗓️ Date: December 3, 2024
🕕 Time: 6:00 PM (CST)
🎙️ Presenters: Immigration attorneys Sarah Monty and Saif Ali
Topics include:
- What a new administration could mean for immigration policy
- Key programs at risk or likely to expand
- Legal strategies for families and employers to stay compliant
👉 Register now to stay informed on these critical issues.
Questions About Immigration?
The legal landscape is changing fast. Whether you’re navigating naturalization, DACA, family petitions, or employment-based visas—we’re here to help.
📞 Call Monty & Ramirez LLP at 713-289-4546
📧 Email: info@montyramirezlaw.com
✅ We Know What Works.