By Ramon Trujillo
The Department of Homeland Security announced on June 15, 2012 that certain youth in the United States would be eligible for deferred action if they met certain requirements. The affectionately termed DREAMers received great news that could aid them in their path towards maybe one day the DREAM Act itself actually becoming law.
At that time, only those who were already in deportation proceedings could be able to seek relief. At that time, USCIS announced that those wishing to apply affirmatively would not be able to apply until mid-August until USCIS established the procedure.
On August 3, 2012, USCIS released more details regarding the procedure, including the filing fee. The filing fee will be $85 if you are only seeking deferred action. If you are also seeking an employment authorization document (“work permit”), the fee will be $465.
It is important to note that not all applicants will be given work authorization. USCIS has announced that you must prove that you have a reason for the need. Simply wanting to work may not be sufficient. It is important to consult our office in order to present your application as strongly as possible.
You cannot submit your application until August 15, 2012. At that time, USCIS anticipates releasing the form and instructions. If you apply before this date, it will be rejected.
It is estimated that in California alone, nearly 300,000 individuals are currently eligible for this process. Given our population of illegal immigrants, this is relief that, while not quite the main goal, is a proper stepping stone for those immigrants who came to the United States as children and have grown up with the US culture.
The latest USCIS information can be found here.
If you or anyone you know may be eligible, contact our office for a free consultation. It is important that those seeking relief consult our office and receive proper guidance during this process. There is no appeal for a denial of this application. If it is not done properly, you will not be able to remedy the situation.