Obama Administration Allows Work Rights for Young Undocumented Immigrants
Author: Law firm of Alena Shautsova
The Obama Administration recently made a bold move by taking allowing thousands of young undocumented immigrants to remain in the United States.
The implemented policy change takes away fear of deportation or procuring a driver's license and allows immigrants to work legally in the country, provided that they meet the following qualifications:
- U.S. entry before age 16
- U.S. residence for a minimum of five years
- Attendance in high school
- High school graduation
- Military veterans in good standing
- Not older than age 30
- Clean criminal records
Some estimate that 800,000 immigrants may be able to take advantage of the new policy change, which achieves some of the DREAM Act objectives. The DREAM ACT or Development, Relief, and Education for Alien Minors was a proposed bill that failed to pass Congress. It offered permanent residency and a path to citizenship for young immigrants up to age 35.
The New York Times quoted President Obama as saying that this recent policy change was not an amnesty, not a path to citizenship, and not a permanent fix. However, under the new policy, immigrants can apply for a work permit that lasts for two years and has no renewal limitations.
If you have issues with immigration, are facing deportation, or have goals to obtain permanent residency or citizenship, find out how a New York immigration lawyer can help.
The Law Office of Alena Shautsova is an immigration law firm serving clients in Brooklyn, New York City, Long Island, Manhattan, Queens, the Bronx and surrounding communities.