WASHINGTON, DC — On June 15^th President Obama announced a change in immigration policy that would provide relief from deportation for young people who meet certain requirements. Deferred action is a temporary measure and does not change the person’s existing immigration status, but someone granted this relief is eligible for work authorization and will not be deported. Today, the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Service (USCIS) released new guidance regarding the application process which officially begins on August 15, 2012. Following the announcement, Representative Xavier Becerra (CA-31), Vice Chair of the House Democratic Caucus and Member of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus, released the following statement:

“First and foremost, I couldn’t agree more with Director Mayorkas: DREAM eligible youth must take every precaution to avoid the immigration scam artists. Young people who believe they’re eligible for deferred action should seek out trusted organizations in our communities which can help provide resources and walk them through the application process.

“I’m pleased that USCIS is taking the necessary steps to implement President Obama’s deferred action policy to protect our youth from deportation and provide them with the opportunity to put their education to work for the country they love and call home. But our work is not done and Congress can no longer sit on the sidelines. Let us come together and finally fix our broken immigration system.”

USCIS expects to make all forms, instructions, and additional information relevant to the deferred action process available on August 15, 2012. USCIS will then immediately begin accepting requests for consideration of deferred action for eligible youth.

Individuals who believe they are eligible should be aware of immigration scams. Unauthorized practitioners of immigration law may try to take advantage of you by charging a fee to submit forms to USCIS on your behalf. Visit www.uscis.gov/avoidscams for tips on filing forms, reporting scams and finding accredited legal services. An informational brochure and flyer are also available on www.uscis.gov.