Biden greatly enhances Afghan rights and work opportunities in US.
The Biden Administration Expands Work Permits for Afghan Nationals in the US
The Biden administration is taking steps to provide greater support and opportunities for Afghan nationals living in the United States. The Department of Homeland Security has announced that it will increase the number of work permits available to Afghan nationals who are residing in the US on parole, including those who were rescued during the chaotic Kabul withdrawal in 2021.
This move comes as the Department of Homeland Security renews its Temporary Protected Status (TPS) designation for Afghanistan. This designation allows undocumented immigrants from Afghanistan to seek protection from deportation and obtain work permits, given the unstable conditions in their home country that prevent safe repatriation.
“Today’s announcement to extend and redesignate TPS for Afghanistan allows us to continue to offer safety and protection to Afghan nationals who are unable to return to their country,” said Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas.
The current beneficiaries of TPS, numbering 3,100, will be able to maintain their protected status until May 20, 2025. Additionally, approximately 14,600 Afghan nationals who entered the United States during the current TPS designation are now eligible to apply for this temporary relief.
The Department of Homeland Security clarified that Afghan nationals who were granted parole under Operation Allies Welcome can also apply for and receive TPS, if they meet the eligibility criteria.
Secretary Mayorkas justified this decision by highlighting the ongoing armed conflict, lack of access to basic necessities, and the destruction of infrastructure, which have created a serious threat to the well-being and stability of Afghan nationals.
Background: The Kabul Evacuation
In August and September 2021, the Biden administration conducted a rapid evacuation of US military personnel from Afghanistan. During this operation, tens of thousands of Afghans who were desperate to leave and sought refuge at the Kabul airport were also brought onto US planes.
It is important to note that the majority of individuals evacuated, approximately 75%, were not American citizens, green card holders, or Afghan Special Immigrant Visa holders. The Biden administration faced criticism for not thoroughly vetting the information provided by these individuals and relying solely on criminal and terrorist databases to identify potential security risks.
Despite these challenges, the Biden administration remains committed to providing support and humanitarian relief to Afghan nationals who are unable to return to their home country.
Source: The Washington Examiner
In what ways does providing work permits to Afghan nationals align with the United States’ commitment to human rights and protecting vulnerable populations?
S who are in the United States and cannot safely return to their home country,” said Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro Mayorkas. “Expanding work permit eligibility will provide these individuals with the opportunity to support themselves and their families while they navigate their legal immigration processes.”
Under the new policy, Afghan nationals who are in the US on parole and are awaiting asylum or other legal immigration processes will be eligible to apply for work permits. This expansion will allow them to obtain legal employment and contribute to the US economy while they wait for their immigration cases to be resolved.
Many Afghan nationals fled their country during the Taliban’s takeover and sought refuge in the United States. The chaotic evacuation from Kabul airport in August 2021 resulted in the rescue of thousands of Afghan nationals, including translators, interpreters, and other allies who had assisted US forces during the war. These individuals faced immediate and grave danger from the Taliban and were urgently evacuated to the US.
By expanding work permit eligibility for Afghan nationals on parole, the Biden administration is recognizing the unique circumstances faced by these individuals and providing them with increased opportunities and support. Prior to this policy change, Afghan parolees had limited options for employment and were often dependent on public assistance to meet their basic needs.
The availability of work permits will not only empower Afghan nationals to support themselves and their families but will also provide economic benefits to the United States. These individuals bring with them valuable skills, education, and work experience that can boost various sectors of the US economy. By allowing them to work legally, the Biden administration is tapping into this potential and fostering economic growth.
Furthermore, providing work permits to Afghan nationals on parole aligns with the United States’ commitment to upholding human rights and protecting vulnerable populations. It sends a message that the US stands with those who have fled persecution and is dedicated to offering them safety and opportunities for a better life.
The Biden administration’s efforts to expand work permits for Afghan nationals in the US is a positive step towards supporting and integrating these individuals, who have faced incredible hardships and uncertainty. It demonstrates a commitment to humanitarian principles and recognizes the contributions that Afghan nationals can make to their new home. As the security and political situation in Afghanistan remains uncertain, these measures provide much-needed stability and hope for those seeking safety and a brighter future in the United States.
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