With potential changes on the horizon for U.S. immigration policies, it is crucial for families to take immediate action to protect your rights before January 2025. Former President Donald Trump has announced plans to issue an executive order on January 20, 2025, that could significantly impact children born in the United States to undocumented parents or even parents on nonimmigrant visas. This executive order may direct the Department of State to stop issuing U.S. passports to such children, raising urgent concerns for affected families. Here’s what you need to know and what you can do now to protect your family.
Why You Should Apply for Your Child’s U.S. Passport Immediately
Applying for your child’s passport is a proactive way to protect your rights before January 2025, ensuring they have the necessary proof of U.S. citizenship. If your child was born in the United States, they are a U.S. citizen by birthright. However, the proposed executive order may seek to limit their access to U.S. passports, which serve as essential proof of citizenship. While legal experts believe such an order would ultimately be deemed unconstitutional, the legal challenges could take months or even years to resolve. In the meantime, families could face unnecessary hurdles.
Steps to Expedite Your Child’s Passport Application
- Gather Required Documents:
- Your child’s original birth certificate.
- Both parents’ identification documents.
- Passport photos that meet Department of State requirements.
- Complete the Application (Form DS-11):
- Access the form on the Department of State’s official website.
- Double-check all details to avoid errors that could delay processing.
- Request Expedited Processing:
- Opt for expedited service to ensure prompt issuance of your child’s passport.
- Include the additional fee for expedited handling and, if necessary, overnight shipping.
- Apply In Person:
- Submit the application at an authorized passport acceptance facility.
- Monitor the Application Status:
- Use the Department of State’s online portal to track the progress of your application.
Each step in expediting a U.S. passport helps safeguard your child’s future and protect your rights before January 2025 amidst shifting immigration policies.
File Form I-130 Petitions Without Delay
Another potential consequence of the executive order is a directive to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) to stop accepting Form I-130 petitions from U.S. citizen children on behalf of their undocumented parents. Filing Form I-130 establishes a family relationship and is a critical first step in seeking lawful permanent residence for parents.
How to File Form I-130:
- Complete Form I-130:
- Provide accurate details about the petitioner (your U.S. citizen child) and the beneficiary (undocumented parent).
- Include Supporting Documents:
- Proof of the petitioner’s U.S. citizenship (e.g., birth certificate, passport).
- Evidence of the family relationship (e.g., marriage certificate or additional documentation).
- Submit the Filing Fee:
- Refer to the USCIS website for the current filing fee and acceptable payment methods.
- Mail the Application to the Correct USCIS Address:
- Verify the correct filing address on the USCIS website to avoid processing delays.
Filing Form I-130 petitions promptly is a critical measure to protect your rights before January 2025 and establish vital family relationships for immigration purposes, ensuring your family is prepared regardless of future policy changes.
For a detailed guide on completing Form I-130, including key requirements and tips to avoid common mistakes, explore our article How to File Form I-130 Petition for Alien Relative: Your Complete Guide to Family Reunification. This resource breaks down the process step-by-step to help families navigate this essential application with confidence.
The Legal Landscape
While such an executive order would face strong legal opposition and is expected to be struck down as unconstitutional, the judicial process takes time. Families affected by these potential changes should not wait to act. By applying for U.S. passports and filing I-130 petitions now, you can avoid potential delays and protect your family’s rights. Acting now ensures you protect your rights before January 2025, regardless of how potential legal battles unfold.
Need Assistance?
Navigating these processes can be overwhelming, especially with the added uncertainty of potential policy changes. At Qazi Law, we specialize in guiding families through complex immigration processes. Our team is here to help. Contact us today at 630-504-0648 to discuss your options and protect your rights before January 2025. Let us help you prepare for the future with peace of mind.
Take action now to avoid unnecessary complications. Your family’s future depends on it.
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