Deferred Action begins August 15

DEFERRED ACTION FOR CHILDHOOD ARRIVALS TO COMMENCE ON AUGUST 15, 2012

                    Under a new immigration law known as “Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals,” certain qualified, undocumented immigrants will be able to obtain a temporary, 2-year legal status in the United States and a work permit.

                  Deferred Action is an exercise in prosecutorial discretion by the government.  It is not a pathway toward legal residency or citizenship in the United States.  Those who qualify under the new law will be allowed to remain in the United States, legally, for 2 years without being deported and be able to work legally.  Those who are currently in removal proceedings and qualify under the new law will also be able to seek protection under the law.

                  To qualify for Deferred Action, a person must show, with documentation, that they meet the following criteria:

• be under the age of 31 as of June 15, 2012
• came to the United States before their 16th birthday
• prove continuous, 5-year  residency in the United States on June 15, 2012
• entered without inspection before June 15, 2012, or their immigration status expired as of June 15, 2012
• be physically present in the United States on June 15, 2012
• be currently in school, have a high school diploma, GED or be honorably discharged from the military
• have no criminal history of felonies, significant misdemeanors, or 3 or more misdemeanors

The total filing fee for Deferred Action is $465 and includes a mandatory biometrics fee.  An interview will not be required as part of the application process unless there is an issue with the application. Each application for Deferred Action will be evaluated on a case by case basis. 

                  For more information regarding Deferred Action, please see:  www.uscis.gov/childhoodarrivals

                  Be careful of notary fraud or unscrupulous practitioners who promise “expedited” services or charge for government forms.  All immigration forms are free to the public and available online at www.uscis.gov

                  To speak with an immigration attorney to see if you qualify for Deferred Action, call Elizabeth Salinas at (323) 216-8597.