The IIIC is delighted about the good news from Washington, DC regarding the Deferred Action policy for over one million young, talented immigrants who were brought to the United States as children. The new policy enables DREAM-Act-eligible immigrants to apply for “deferred action,” a temporary status that allows them to live, work and pursue higher education without fear of deportation. Those who dream of going to college will likely have access to in-state tuition in Massachusetts.

As reported in last media this week, thousands of young immigrants are already lining up throughout the country to apply, and it is estimated that as many as 12,000 people could be eligible in Massachusetts. Some may need professional legal assistance and the Irish International Immigrant Center can provide those legal services. If you are considering applying, please be careful about where you seek your advice.

The USCIS and the Mayor’s Office of New Bostonians hosted a community meeting on August 17th, along with MIRA and other community based organizations. One clear message that was communicated was that people need to beware of getting wrong advice on Deferred Action. The USCIS website states “many people offer help with immigration services. Unfortunately, not all are authorized to do so. While many of these unauthorized practitioners mean well, all too many of them are out to rip you off. This is against the law and may be considered an immigration services scam. If you need help filing an application or petition with USCIS, be sure to seek assistance from the right place, and from people that are authorized to help. Going to the wrong place can delay your application or petition, cost you unnecessary fees or possibly lead to removal proceedings.”

The IIIC is running Information Sessions on Deferred Action Policy on August 23 at 1:00 pm, August 28 at 6:00 pm September 17 at 10:00 at 100 Franklin Street. Please call 617-542-7654 for more information.