Recently, President Obama announced that certain undocumented students qualify for temporary legal status. If you qualify, CUNY is ready to help. The status is called “deferred action.” It is valid for two years and can be renewed. A qualified applicant can get employment authorization. CUNY Citizenship Now!, CUNY’s free immigration legal service program, is providing fee services to CUNY students who qualify for deferred status. To qualify, an applicant must:
- have entered the United States under the age of sixteen;
- have been physically present in the United States as of June 15, 2012, and have continuously resided in the United States for at least five years;
- have been younger than 31 as of June 15, 2012;
- be “in school”, have a high school degree or GED certificate, or have been honorably discharged from the U.S. Armed Forces or Coast Guard;
- not have been convicted of a felony, a “significant misdemeanor”, three misdemeanors, or otherwise pose a threat national security or public safety; and
- be at least 15 years old, unless if in removal proceedings.
If you think you are eligible, join our listserv at www.cuny.edu/dreamers. Click on “Deferred Action Assistance for CUNY Students” and follow the instructions on the screen. You only need to provide us with your email address and CUNY College to sign up. Also at that site you will find updated information about the deferred action program and how to get help.
CUNY Citizenship Now’s services are free and confidential and include assistance with other immigration benefits. To learn more visit www.cuny.edu/citizenshipnow.
Sincerely,
CUNY Citizenship Now
