Biden Administration Announces Deferred Enforced Departure for Certain Palestinians

February 16, 2024

On February 14, 2024, President Biden announced that the United States will defer the removal of Palestinian residents for 18 months. Exceptions include those: (1) who voluntarily returned to the Palestinian territories after February 14, 2024; (2) who have not continuously resided in the United States since February 14, 2024; (3) who  are inadmissible under the Immigration and Nationality Act; (4) who have been convicted of any felony or two or more misdemeanors committed in the United States; (5) who are subject to extradition; (6) whose presence is not in the interest of the United States or presents a danger to public safety; or (7) whose presence would have potentially serious adverse foreign policy consequences for the United States.

According to President Biden, this policy is necessitated by humanitarian conditions in the Palestinian territories because of the ongoing Israel and Hamas conflict. Additionally, President Biden directed the Department of Homeland Security to provide employment authorization for individuals impacted by this policy and to consider expanding employment eligibility for Palestinian F-1 nonimmigrant students.

To discuss what potential impact this can have on your case, please request a consultation with one of our attorneys by filling out our Consultation Request Form.

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