In a significant overhaul of the U.S. immigration system, President Joe Biden is set to grant deportation immunity and work permits to spouses of U.S. citizens.

According to Daily Mail, President Joe Biden will soon introduce a policy to safeguard about 490,000 spouses of U.S. citizens from deportation and offer them a pathway to citizenship.

The transformative measures are slated for announcement at a forthcoming White House event, marking a pivotal shift in immigration policy. This "parole in place" program is tailored for those who have been American residents for at least a decade. The scope and ambition of the proposal reflect Biden's commitment to substantial immigration reform.

Immigration Reform Tied to Emotional Family Unions

The announcement is expected to resonate deeply with families across the nation, particularly those who have been ensnared in legal uncertainties.

Rep. Nanette Barragán, D-Calif., conveyed the emotional lift the policy would provide, noting it would lead to "tears of joy paired with some sighs of relief" among the families affected.

Moreover, eligibility for this program requires that individuals be spouses of U.S. citizens and have resided in the U.S. for at least ten years.

This long-term residency criterion aims to ensure that the beneficiaries have substantial ties to the community, reinforcing the program’s goal of stabilizing family units and communities within the U.S.

Policy Marks Anniversary of DACA

This announcement coincides with the 12th anniversary of the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program initiated during the Obama administration.

The timing highlights the continuous effort to build upon past immigration reforms that focus on integrating deeply rooted immigrants into the societal fold of the U.S. legally.

Biden's initiative is about protecting individuals and fulfilling a broader vision of America as a nation that values and sustains its diverse community.

This development follows Biden’s recent border security measures, which tightened restrictions at the U.S. border and were criticized for resembling policies from the previous administration.

Wide Range of Reactions to Biden’s Immigration Policies

The policymakers' decision has ignited a mix of reactions, with some critics arguing that the new policy may act as a "huge magnet," potentially encouraging more people to come to the U.S. border.

Senator John Cornyn, R-Texas, expressed such concerns, suggesting it might inadvertently draw more individuals seeking entry into the country.

On the flip side, proponents of this policy, including Sen. Alex Padilla, D-Calif., hailed it as a justified move, saying it delivers "justice" that "was long overdue" for families that are integral to their communities.

Immigration Advocacy and Legal Challenges

While the introduction of this policy is welcomed by many, legal challenges reminiscent of those faced by DACA might be on the horizon, underscoring the contentious nature of U.S. immigration policies.

However, organizations such as CASA in Action remain optimistic. Gustavo Torres, the group's president, believes that the "immigrant and Latino voters will express their gratitude at the ballot box in November," reflecting on the expected political impact of the policy.

Ashley DeAzevedo, president of American Families United, praised the announcement, recognizing it as a "defining moment in history," a moment vital for the communities involved and reflective of a broader humanitarian commitment.

Summing Up Biden’s New Immigration Pathway

The new policy by President Biden aims to protect approximately 490,000 undocumented spouses by providing them with a viable path to U.S. citizenship, safeguarding them from deportation, and allowing them the opportunity to work legally in the United States.

Focused on those with significant ties within the USA and fulfilled during an election year, this policy seeks to solidify the socio-economic fabric of immigrant communities while navigating the complex waters of political opinion and legal scrutiny.