Immigration System Faith (E.O. 14012)

Summary

Makes the legal immigration system more welcoming by removing barriers, reviewing harsh rules, and making it easier for people to become U.S. citizens.

What problem does this solve?

Previous policies created fear and barriers, making it hard for immigrants to use government services and become citizens. This order requires government agencies to review and fix these policies to make the system fair and efficient.

What does this order do?

Reviews all legal immigration policies

Requires the Secretary of State, Attorney General, and Secretary of Homeland Security to review all immigration rules and policies to find and remove barriers for applicants.

Examines 'public charge' rules

Orders an immediate review of the 'public charge' rule, which can deny green cards to immigrants who might use public benefits. The goal is to reduce fear and confusion.

Improves the path to citizenship

Directs agencies to make the naturalization process faster, more accessible, and potentially cheaper. This includes reviewing the application, tests, and fees.

Creates a Task Force on New Americans

Establishes a White House group to coordinate government-wide efforts to welcome and support immigrants and refugees.

Cancels a 2019 memorandum on sponsor duties

Revokes a 2019 presidential memorandum about the legal duties of people who sponsor immigrants.

Who does this affect?

Immigrants
Refugees
Applicants for U.S. citizenship

What is the real world impact?

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Promotes a more welcoming immigration system

Reverses previous policies that were seen as barriers to legal immigration. Aims to encourage immigrants to fully participate in American society and civic life.

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Addresses processing backlogs and inefficiencies

Directs agencies to find and fix delays and problems in the naturalization and immigration benefits process. This could make it faster for people to become citizens or get legal status.

When does this start?

This order takes effect immediately on February 2, 2021, and sets several deadlines for government agencies to submit reports and plans.

Public charge rule review report

Within 60 days (by April 3, 2021), relevant agencies must report to the President on their review of 'public charge' policies.

Plan to improve naturalization

Within 60 days (by April 3, 2021), agencies must develop a plan to remove barriers and improve the citizenship process.

Agency plans to restore trust

Within 90 days (by May 3, 2021), the State, Justice, and Homeland Security departments must submit plans to make the immigration system more welcoming.

Strategy to promote naturalization

Within 90 days (by May 3, 2021), a new working group must submit a national strategy to the President on how to encourage naturalization.

Progress report on immigration plans

Within 180 days of submitting their plans, agencies must report on their progress in making the immigration system more welcoming.