Deferred Action or "Dream"

By Natalie Dayton

Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals

On Friday morning, June 15, 2012, the Obama administration announced new policy, effective immediately, that will affect an estimated 800,000 immigrants currently residing in the United States.

The policy contains traces of the “Dream Act”, a measure blocked by Congress in 2010, that would have allowed undocumented five year residents of the States who have demonstrated good moral character the chance to obtain temporary and eventually permanent residence in the U. S.

            The policy pertains to those under the age of 31, who have arrived in the United States before the age of 16 and have lived in the country for five years. In addition to these requirements, the individual must have earned a high school diploma, be currently enrolled in school, or have served in the military. They also must have no criminal record (felonies and significant misdemeanors).

            If these requirements are met, the young immigrants will be eligible to apply for a two-year “deferred action” which is a reprieve from deportation for two years. There is allowance for repeated extensions.

            Those with approved deferrals will have the opportunity to apply for work permits.  According to officials, each case will be dealt with on an individual basis.

            This policy offers exciting new potential for allowing immigrants who have grown up in the United States undocumented through no fault of their own, a chance to remain in the land they call home.