Dreamer Relief - What We Know and Don't Know

Over 11 heartbreaking years have passed since the Dream Act was first introduced in Congress and failed. The purpose of this bill and others introduced later was to extend immigration relief to young people brought to the U.S. as children. President Obama now offers a glimmer of hope for those who meet the following criteria:

• Arrived in the U.S. younger than 16;
• Have continuously resided in the U.S. since June 15, 2007 and present in the U.S. on June 15, 2012;
• Are in school, high school graduates, have a GED, or are a honorably discharged veteran;
• Have NOT been convicted of a felony, a "significant misdemeanor offense," 3 non-significant misdemeanors, or otherwise pose a threat to national security or public safety; and
• Were under 31 years old on June 15, 2012.

However, it is now the job of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to get the immigration agencies ready to carry out the President’s order. DHS has released some information regarding this new program.

WHAT WE KNOW:

• You cannot send in application yet.
• Dreamer Relief is not permanent residence.
• The government is to announce more information soon.
• Only verifiable evidence will be accepted.
• There will be hundreds of thousands applying for Deferred Action.

WHAT WE DON'T KNOW YET:

• Whether options will be available to those without a high school diploma.
• What is meant by “a significant misdemeanor offense” or “a non-significant misdemeanors”

WHAT YOU SHOULD DO:

If you believe that you qualify for Dream Relief, it is important to get your case ready now. Remember, applications are not being accepted yet. But you can prepare.

Assembling Evidence Now
The best evidence will be records that existed before the President’s order.

Criminal Record?
If you had criminal problems, confer with an immigration attorney before applying. Taking the wrong action can result in your deportation.

Get Trustworthy Information
It is illegal for individuals who are not licensed attorneys to give legal advice. Meet with an immigration attorney. Pubic Notaries are not attorneys. Say “No” to Notary Fraud.

For more information, call and ask when our next Dreamer Seminar will be held 281-493-5529.