In June 2012, the Obama Administration announced a new immigration benefit – Deferred Action – applicable for young immigrants (you cannot be the age of 31 or older as of June 15, 2012), which allows them under the program to defer removal action and receive a work-based permit. Applicants must be able to provide proof of identity and are eligible if they meet all of the criteria below:
- Came to the United States under the age of sixteen
- Have continuously resided in the United States for a least five years preceding June 15, 2012 and were present in the United States on June 15, 2012
- Are currently in school, have graduated from high school, have obtained a GED, or are an honorably discharged veteran of the Coast Guard or Armed Forces of the United States
- Have not been convicted of a felony offense, a significant misdemeanor offense, multiple misdemeanor offenses, or otherwise pose a threat to national security or public safety
- Are not above the age of thirty
This administrative policy is not a law and does not carry any permanent legal status.
If granted deferred action, youth will have the opportunity to obtain a renewable 2-year work permit, but this policy does not offer a pathway to permanent residency (green card) or citizenship.
There is no opportunity for an appeal or to reapply.
To start your application or to have your application professionally reviewed, contact our office.