Last week, President Obama announced a new immigration policy that will benefit thousands of people. The policy allows illegal immigrants to file for a two-year deferral from deportation, with the possibility of renewal. The criteria for eligibility are:
- Under the age of 30 and arrived in the United States before the age of 16
- Have lived in the United States for five continuous years
- Individuals who do not have a criminal record
- Individuals who are successful students (High School Diploma or GED) or served in the military
Those that meet the requirements are also eligible to apply for work permits.