This idea creates a pathway to citizenship for immigrants who have lived in the United States for a significant period, are contributing members of society, and have no felony convictions. The bill’s intent is to offer an affordable, efficient process that promotes family unity, eliminates sponsor requirements for certain immigrants, and prevents deportation due to delays in status changes.
Key Provisions:
1. Amnesty for Long-Term Residents:
(a) Eligibility: Individuals who have been in the U.S. for a minimum of 10 years may apply for amnesty, provided they can demonstrate good character, financial independence, or stable employment and have no felony convictions.
(b) Amnesty Process: Qualifying applicants will be granted legal resident status, creating a pathway to citizenship after completing a probationary period of 5 years with continued good standing.
2. Mandatory Compliance Timeline:
(a)Time Limit for Application: Once the bill is enacted, eligible individuals will have a 2 year window to submit all necessary paperwork for legal residency.
(b) Consequences of Non-Compliance: Those who fail to submit required documentation within the 3-year period, without a valid reason, will face deportation.
(c) Support Services: The bill will allocate resources to provide educational resources, legal assistance, and language services to ensure applicants understand and meet all requirements within the timeline.
3. Affordable Application Process:
(a) Fee Reduction and Payment Plans: To make the pathway financially accessible, application fees will be reduced for those with demonstrated financial need, and a tiered fee structure will be implemented. Payment plans with interest-free options will be offered.
(b) Processing Transparency: All fees collected will be used to expedite processing times and improve efficiency, making the system fair and affordable for all applicants.
4. Residency Access for Visa Holders Without Sponsorship:
(a) Employmet-Based Residency Pathway: Individuals on valid visas who wish to obtain residency but lack a sponsor may qualify by providing proof of stable employment and financial independence.
(b) Pathway Flexibility: Employment verification will replace the traditional sponsorship requirement for visa holders, allowing them a clear path to residency without risking separation from their families due to visa expiration.
Additional Provisions:
(a) Family Unity Clause: Family members of qualified applicants (spouses, children, and dependents) will automatically receive legal status under the primary applicant, helping to prevent family separation.
(b) Waiver for Returning to Country of Origin: The bill waives any requirement to return to the applicant’s country of origin during the application process, preventing disruption in family unity and minimizing risks associated with travel.
(c) Oversight and Accountability: A bipartisan oversight committee will be established to ensure that the bill’s implementation is fair, efficient, and does not lead to undue hardships or bureaucratic delays.