> The program will allow the spouses and children to apply for permanent residence without leaving the U.S., removing a potentially lengthy process and family separation. If they are granted green cards, they could eventually apply for U.S. citizenship.
So if I understand this correctly, currently you would either be deported or voluntarily leave (because you could not apply for an Adjustment of Status for a valid visa that you don't have), and apply for permanent residence from outside of the US via Department of State. That's the process that takes years.
But under the new rules, the valid visa requirement (or requirement for a visa at all?) for an Adjustment of Status would be waived, and while the process might still take years (which it currently does), you'd be able to be with your family while you wait.
So if I understand this correctly, currently you would either be deported or voluntarily leave (because you could not apply for an Adjustment of Status for a valid visa that you don't have), and apply for permanent residence from outside of the US via Department of State. That's the process that takes years.
But under the new rules, the valid visa requirement (or requirement for a visa at all?) for an Adjustment of Status would be waived, and while the process might still take years (which it currently does), you'd be able to be with your family while you wait.