Venezuelan Adjustment Act
Venezuelan Adjustment Act
Plain Language Summary
# Venezuelan Adjustment Act Summary **What It Would Do:** This bill would allow Venezuelan nationals who entered the U.S. by December 31, 2021, to apply for permanent resident status (a green card). To qualify, applicants must have lived in the U.S. continuously for at least one year, apply within three years of the bill passing, and meet standard immigration eligibility requirements.
The bill also waives certain restrictions that normally prevent people from getting permanent status, such as concerns about becoming a "public charge" (dependent on government benefits). Eligible applicants' spouses and children could also qualify for permanent resident status. **Who It Affects:** This bill targets Venezuelan immigrants already in the U.S., an estimated population that has grown significantly in recent years due to instability in Venezuela. It would also benefit their immediate family members living with them in the United States. **Current Status:** The bill was introduced by Democratic Representative Darren Soto (Florida) in the 119th Congress and is currently in committee, meaning it has not yet advanced to a full vote in the House of Representatives. No action has been taken beyond its initial introduction.
CRS Official Summary
Venezuelan Adjustment Act This bill requires the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to grant lawful permanent resident status to qualifying nationals of Venezuela. A national of Venezuela shall be eligible if that individual (1) applies for lawful permanent resident status no later than three years after this bill's enactment, (2) entered the United States on or before December 31, 2021, (3) has been continuously physically present in the United States for at least one year when filing their application, (4) is otherwise eligible to receive an immigrant visa, and (5) is not inadmissible under various grounds such as a conviction for an aggravated felony. Certain grounds for inadmissibility, such as the public charge ground, shall not apply. The spouse, child, or unmarried son or daughter of an eligible individual shall also be eligible. If an individual has applied for lawful permanent resident status under this bill and is subject to exclusion, deportation, or removal proceedings, DHS may not order that individual's removal unless DHS has made a final determination to deny the application. DHS must provide work authorization to an individual whose application has been pending for more than 180 days, and may also provide authorization before that.
Latest Action
Referred to the House Committee on the Judiciary.