We are expecting the Department of Homeland Security to publish a rule later today that will expand the Provisional Unlawful Presence Waiver to spouses of Lawful Permanent Residents. This will enable a husband or wife of a Lawful Permanent Resident to request a waiver and wait for a decision in the United States before departing to their country of origin for the Immigrant Visa interview. Up to know only spouses of United States citizens could request a waiver and wait for a decision in the United States. Once published, the rule is expected to be effective as of August 29, 2016.

Stefan Latorre is the president of the Law Offices of Stefan Latorre. He has offices in Charlotte, Monroe, Greensboro, Durham and Hickory in North Carolina; Columbia and Greenville in South Carolina; and Jacksonville in Florida. For more information or to schedule a consultation, call 1.800.966.6769.