Dallas Family Anticipates New Immigration Policy

CBSDFW.com


Roberto & Naida Salas, a Dallas family that would benefit from a new piece of legislation designed to keep families together while awaiting paperwork to apply for citizenship.

DALLAS (CBSDFW.COM) – A new immigration policy expected to take effect later this year aims to stop the separation of families.

It would affect undocumented spouses and children of U.S. citizens.

Roberto Salas is one of thousands of immigrants in the country who could benefit. He came to the United States in search of work when he was still just a teenager.

“I have 13 years here. That’s about half my life,” the Dallas resident said. His wife, Naida, is American, and together, they have three American children.

He, however, is here illegally.

“It’s important to have my papers, because I want to live here for all my life,” he said.

As the husband of a U.S. citizen, Salas can apply for residency. But, under the current policy, he has to leave the country first and wait for a waiver from the U.S. Consulate in Mexico, a process that could take anywhere from a few months to over a year.

“That’s for this family, in particular, is something that is not affordable.