On June 15, 2012, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) announced that it will not deport young people from the U.S. who meet certain requirements. Those who qualify will be given “deferred action”for two years and will be eligible for work authorization.

The Farmworker Advocacy Network has worked with several community partners to ensure that farmworker youth know about the opportunity and have support in applying.   

Who is eligible?
Individuals must prove they meet the following criteria:
•    came to the United States under the age of 16;
•    have continuously resided in the United States for a least 5 years before June 15, 2012 and were present in the United States on June 15, 2012;
•    are currently in school, have graduated from high school, have obtained a GED certificate, or are an honorably discharged veteran of the Coast Guard or Armed Forces of the United States;
•    have not been convicted of a felony offense, a significant misdemeanor offense, multiple misdemeanor offenses, or otherwise pose a threat to national security or public safety; and
•     were under the age of 31 as of June 15, 2012. 

How do I apply?  The North Carolina Justice Center strongly believes that everyone who applies for Deferred Action needs and deserves assistance from an immigration attorney or BIA accredited representative before submitting their application. Go to the NC Justice Center website for application materials, legal support and to get involved as an ally.