Deferred Action to be available August 15

I am writing to you to give you some good news. Finally, after years of wondering whether you, a family member, or associate might ever achieve lawful immigration status in the U.S., on June 15, 2012, President Barack Obama announced application of Deferred Action to those commonly known as “Dreamers.” Deferred action defers removal proceedings from the U.S. Dreamers are young people who came to the U.S. due to no decision of their own. Now, as young adults, they find themselves undocumented and without any means of regularizing their status. Deferred Action provides some relief to Dreamers. On August 15, 2012, applications will start being accepted by the government. 

You or someone you know could qualify for Deferred Action if: 
• Born after June 15, 1981;
• Arrived in the U.S. before the age of sixteen;
• Have continuously resided in the U.S. since June 15, 2007 to the present (short
departures mostly acceptable);
• Present in the U.S. on June 15, 2012 and on the date of application;
• Entered the U.S. illegally or lawful status expired as of June 15, 2012;
• Currently in school, graduated or received certificate of completion from high
school, obtained a General Education Development (GED) certificate, or are
honorably discharged veteran of the U.S. Coast Guard or the U.S. Armed Forces; 
• At least fifteen years old at time of filing, if not in proceedings or if your case was
terminated before your application (those currently or in the past have been in
removal proceedings without “termination” may apply if under 15); and
• Not have been convicted of a felony offense, a significant misdemeanor offense
(sentenced to more than 90 days, or a conviction for domestic violence, sexual
abuse, burglary, firearm violation, drug distribution or trafficking (but not
possession), or DUI, regardless of the sentence), three or more non-significant
misdemeanors, or otherwise pose a threat to national security or public safety.

Those who are in removal proceedings, have been granted voluntary departure, or have left the U.S. but otherwise qualify for Deferred Action may still be able to qualify.

Unable to pass legislation for more than 10 years that would provide permanent resident “green cards” to these people, as a result of implementation of already existing executive policy, the President has lawfully been able to at least defer the removal of Dreamers. Though permanent residence is not achieved, the program will likely be similar to other temporary measures which later became indefinite, lengthy, or otherwise ultimately lead to permanent residence. 

An application for Deferred Action will not be disclosed to immigration enforcement authorities except when otherwise required in limited circumstances. Legal advice will assist in understanding this risk. By not applying, a person could forever give up a non-risky chance of a lifetime. 

Applications made before August 15 will be rejected. This is the first day forms will be available from USCIS.

Please contact or refer to the office for further information you, your loved one, friend or other associate. Finally, some relief for Dreamers is available.