USCIS Issues Guidance for Surviving Spouses of U.S. Citizens

We have previously posted about the so-called “widow penalty” for lawful permanent residents whose spuses die.  On August 31, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) issued guidance on requesting deferred action for surviving spouses of U.S. citizens who died before the second anniversary of their marriage. Surviving spouses qualify for this temporary program if they were married to, but not legally separated from, their U.S. citizen spouse at the time of that spouse’s death; did not remarry; and are currently residing in the United States. For a FAQ, click here.