Maison Law Immigration Lawyers helps families explore their citizenship options in the immigration process in California. One of the newest paths to citizenship is the “Keeping Families Together” program, but like many options, the actual application process can get a bit confusing. Our team can guide you and your family through this process to make sure you can take advantage of its benefits. Contact us today to set up an initial consultation to get started.
Do You Have to Get an Immigration Lawyer For the Keeping Families Together Program?
The application process for the “Keeping Families Together” program is extremely competitive–the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) estimates that nearly 500,000 are (or could be) eligible.
But you aren’t required to get an immigration lawyer if you want to apply. You can try to go through the process yourself, but if you want to make sure that you have everything you need for a successful application, working with our team is in your best interest. Here’s how we can help:
- Explaining your options and how the process works
- Helping you fill out the application and gather the required materials
- Guide you through the entire process, including any re-filings
Despite the fact that the program has seen recent legal challenges, there’s still a great deal of applicants. But more importantly, when it comes to keeping your family unit together, this program can be pivotal. That’s where you can lean on our team’s experience and guidance.
How Do I Apply For the Keeping Families Together Program?
Before getting into the application process for Keeping Families Together, it’s important to look at the eligibility requirements. In order to even be eligible to apply, you must:
- Be in the United States without being formally allowed or approved to enter.
- Have lived in the U.S. continuously for at least 10 years by June 17, 2024.
- Be legally married to a U.S. citizen by June 17, 2024.
With those covered, we can move on to the actual application process, which is decided on a case-by-case basis. Generally, it goes as follows:
- File Form I-131F – The first step is to complete Form I-131F, Application for Parole in Place for Certain Noncitizen Spouses and Stepchildren of U.S. Citizens. This will ask you for pertinent information and other documentation for the program. You’ll also need to pay the required $580 filing fee.
- Provide required documentation – You’ll need to provide documentation that proves you meet the program’s requirements, like marriage certificates, birth certificates, passport, or other proof of residency.
- Biometrics – In some cases, you may have to schedule and go through a biometrics appointment to confirm your identity.
While this is a simple overview, the actual process can be challenging. Not only do you have to provide all the right documentation, but you’ll likely face processing delays and other issues. That said, the potential benefits of the program can outweigh these challenges.
What Are the Benefits of the Keeping Families Together Program?
Obviously, the opportunity for keeping your family unit together in the United States is the main benefit of the Keeping Families Together program. Because the eligibility requirements highlight those that have already built a life here, maintaining this status is very important.
But specifically, there’s a few other key benefits of the program:
- Path to full citizenship – The main stated goal of the program is to give nonimmigrant spouses a path to full citizenship. A successful application will provide them with the ability to get a green card. However, they have to meet those requirements, as well.
- Social benefits – Not surprisingly, living in the United States provides access to some pretty important benefits, like healthcare, education, and the continued development of family and social bonds. The Keeping Families Together program can give you or your spouse the opportunity to keep enjoying these benefits.
- Protection from deportation – Probably most importantly, a successful application is going to protect you or your spouse from deportation while the application process is undertaken.
In looking at the various benefits to the Keeping Families Together program, it’s pretty easy to see why it’s so competitive and popular. But as we’ve touched on above, the process isn’t without challenges, both legal and political. That’s why it’s important to take advantage of our team’s guidance and make sure you have what you need for a successful application.
Contact Maison Immigration Today For Help With a Keeping Families Together Application
When you want to take advantage of the Keeping Families Together program, you can rely on the experience of our team at Maison Law Immigration Lawyers. We can make sure you understand the process and you have what you need for a strong and compelling application. Contact us today for a consultation to learn more.
