Venezuelan Adjustment Act

The bill would let Venezuelan nationals who entered the United States by December 31, 2021 and who have been physically present at least 1 year apply for adjustment to lawful permanent resident status, subject to criminal and persecution disqualifications.

• Families and eligible relatives: Venezuelan nationals and their spouses, children, and unmarried sons or daughters who meet the rules could become lawful permanent residents if otherwise eligible.
• People with removal or deportation orders: Filing an application would pause removal while it is pending and would cancel an existing removal order if the adjustment is approved. If denied the original order remains in effect.
• Workers and employers: Applicants could get work authorization while an application is pending and must receive it if the application is still pending after 180 days.
• Eligibility and limits: Certain inadmissibility grounds under section 212(a) of the Immigration and Nationality Act would not apply for this adjustment, but convictions for aggravated felonies, two or more crimes involving moral turpitude, or participation in persecution would disqualify an applicant.
• Immigration records and visas: On approval the bill directs a record of admission dating to the applicant’s arrival and does not require the State Department to reduce immigrant visa numbers to offset these adjustments.