In the week of September 13, 2021, the United States Government will begin to accept new applications for the "Obama Era Immigration Policy" whose applications allow some parents residing in the United States to bring their children from Guatemala, Honduras, and El Salvador with a legal entry.
This opportunity has been marked as the final stage of the resurgence of the Central American Minors initiative by the Biden administration. The officials of the United States consider this opportunity as a legal and safe alternative to so much danger that immigrant children live every day to reach the southern border.
It is important to mention that Biden expanded the program's eligibility, allowing parents to petition their children if they have a pending application for asylum or U visas, which are reserved for victims of severe crimes. Green card holders, beneficiaries of Temporary Protected Status (TPS), and others with temporary legal status in the United States can also apply.
The adjudication process can take 12 to 14 months. After the parents submit their application, the children will be interviewed in their home country to determine if they qualify for refugee resettlement due to the persecution they may have suffered. If denied refugee status, children are still granted humanitarian parole that allows them to legally enter the United States.
The reopening of the program will be a great relief for some immigrant parents residing in the United States to be able to bring their children legally to the land of opportunity.