SECURE Act: Pathways to Permanent Residency for Vulnerable Migrants
This act establishes new rules for individuals from countries under special protection, allowing them to apply for permanent residency in the U.S. It aims to provide stability and security for those who had to leave their homelands due to difficult circumstances. The act simplifies the legalization process and ensures the protection of personal data.
Key points
Individuals with Temporary Protected Status (TPS) or similar designations can apply for permanent residency in the U.S. if they meet specific requirements.
The act allows applications for permanent residency even for those who previously left the U.S. but met the criteria before their departure.
Application fees for permanent residency may be waived for individuals under 18, with low income, lacking familial support, or with severe chronic disabilities.
Applicants will be authorized to work legally in the U.S. while their applications are pending.
Personal information from applications will be protected and not used for immigration enforcement, except in cases of fraud, national security, or serious non-immigration felonies.
The act requires the government to provide detailed reports on the conditions in countries whose citizens are losing temporary protected status, including their capacity to receive returning nationals.
Introduced
Additional Information
Print number: 119_S_2106
Sponsor: Sen. Van Hollen, Chris [D-MD]
Process start date: 2025-06-18