Understanding President Obama's Plan to Help Undocumented Immigrants

What the new immigration reform means to you.

The action taken by President Obama will help law abiding long-term residents of the U.S. in several ways. This may be a once in a lifetime opportunity to normalize your life in the U.S. For many people who qualify, it will mean opportunities for jobs and education, to see loved ones back in their home country, or just to be able to live without looking over your shoulder worrying about being arrested or detained by immigration.

Who will benefit from the Plan?

Parents of U.S. Citizens or lawful permanent residents (Green Cards holders) who have lived in the U.S. since January 1, 2010, who pass criminal and national security checks, and who have paid their taxes are eligible for temporary relief from being deported and for employment/work authorization for three years.

DACA Expansion – expands the program to include young people who arrived in the US before turning 16 years old and before January 1, 2010, regardless of how old they are today. Also increases their DACA protection and employment/work authorization period from two to three years.

The I-601A Waiver program will be expanded to include spouses and sons and daughters of Green Card holders, as well as the sons and daughters of U.S. Citizens. The I-601A waiver program allows applicants to apply for a waiver before they leave the U.S. resulting in less uncertainty and reducing the time that families are separated while obtaining their green cards.

When can you apply?

These new programs will not go into effect for several months, possibly in January or February 2015 for the DACA expansion and I-601A program and several months later for DAPA.

What should you do now?

USCIS will review each case very carefully and those found to knowingly misrepresent or fail to disclose facts will be denied, will be subject to criminal prosecution, and possible deportation from the United States. If you believe you are eligible, you should:

Prepare by gathering documents that prove your identity and relationship to a US citizen or lawful permanent resident.

Show that you have continuously lived in the US for 5 years or more.

Beware of Immigration Scams

In their announcement, the White House strongly pointed out that applicants should beware of immigration scams.

While some details and the specific procedures on who to apply are not out yet, these new programs could help up to 5 million people currently in the United States. Our office is happy and looking forward to answering your questions and to help obtain a better future here in the United States.

Our immigration law firm has been in business for over 20 years and is ready to help you with your immigration questions. Call us today at (714)479-1000 to place your name on our firm’s priority list or for more information regarding your immigration status. Most consultations are free. Call for details.