President Obama Promises Change for Illegal Immigrants

Written by Jennifer Villarroel

Catalyst Miami Summer Intern

"We are the first nation to be founded for the sake of an idea—the idea that each of us deserves the chance to shape our own destiny. That’s why centuries of pioneers and immigrants have risked everything to come here…The future is ours to win. But to get there, we cannot stand still." --President Barack Obama

About a week ago, President Barack Obama addressed a hot issue for many living illegally within the United States today. According to his executive order many young people will have an opportunity to apply for a temporary legal status for a two year period with the chance of renewal. According to current information those eligible under the deferred action with be granted a work permit, driver’s license, and a social security card. However, this act is not a pathway for U.S. residency or citizenship status. 

So who qualifies? All applicants must have:

1. Come to the United States under the age of sixteen;
2. Continuously resided in the United States for at least five years before June 15, 2012 and still present in the United States on June 15, 2012;
3. Currently be in school, have graduated from high school, have obtained a general education development certificate, or are honorably discharged veterans of the Coast Guard or Armed Forces of the United States;
4. 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;
5. Not be above the age of thirty.
   

The United States Citizenship and Immigrations services  website requests all eligible individuals to wait 60 days (since June 15th) in order to allow a specific application process to be formulated. All applications received before the 60 days will be rejected. Although specific details are yet to be determined the following link can help answer questions on some general concerns.