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Reuniting Families Act: Faster Visas, Partner Recognition, and Clearing Backlogs

This Act reforms the immigration system by reclassifying spouses and minor children of permanent residents as "Immediate Relatives," aiming to reduce visa wait times. It also introduces the definition of "permanent partner" (individuals in committed relationships) across immigration categories, providing them treatment similar to spouses. Additionally, the bill provides for the recapture of unused family-sponsored and employment-based visas from fiscal years 1992 through 2023.
Key points
Spouses and minor children of Lawful Permanent Residents are reclassified as "Immediate Relatives," exempting them from numerical visa limitations.
Introduction of "permanent partner" and "permanent partnership" definitions, allowing couples in committed relationships to access immigration benefits available to married couples.
Recapture of unused family-sponsored and employment-based visas from fiscal years 1992 through 2023 to increase the pool of available visas.
Protection for children from losing status upon turning 21 and expanded waiver eligibility for individuals previously removed or barred.
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Status: Expired
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Additional Information
Print number: 118_S_5423
Sponsor: Sen. Hirono, Mazie K. [D-HI]
Process start date: 2024-12-04