Newsletter June - July 2001

LATE AMNESTY ONE-YEAR PERIOD TO APPLY STARTS JUNE 1, 2001 UNTIL MAY 31, 2002

To qualify:

  • CSS (Catholic Social Services), LULAC or Zambrano lawsuit class member before October 1, 2000 (you are a member if you filed an application to join these lawsuits)
  • Entered U.S. prior to January 1, 1982
  • Since entry, resided continuously in U.S. without legal status until May 4, 1988
  • Continuously physically present from November 6, 1986 until May 4, 1988
  • Basic citizenship skills (i.e., English speaking)
  • You may NOT qualify if you have a severe criminal record or have violated certain immigration laws

Eligible persons are entitled to:

  • Work permit
  • Stay of deportation order
  • Certain public benefits
  • Advance parole to leave and return to the U.S.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What if I have been ordered deported? Certain prior orders of deportation may be forgiven. You may still apply, whether you are in the United States or outside.

What documents do I need and what is the fee? The list of required documents is quite lengthy and detailed, and should be organized by a competent professional. The fee is $330 for the application, plus$25 for fingerprints.

What if I left the U.S. during the required period? You may still be eligible, depending on the length of your absence.

What about my family? Spouses and unmarried children are eligible for work authorization if they entered prior to December 1, 1988 and were living here on that date. If presently outside the U.S., they may apply for re-enter. If inside the U.S., they can apply to be protected from deportation.

** NOTE: The proposed law that would change the Registry date to 1986 was not approved in 2000, and has not been renewed for 2001. Thus, there is NO LAW giving green cards to people who were living in the U.S. in 1986.

NEW CANCELLATION LAW

The Immigration appeal court has set out suggestions for people applying for cancellation of removal ("10-year law"). This Office has reviewed the new case law and knows how it affects your case. It is strongly recommended that you make an appointment as soon as possible!!!

JULY 23, 2001 DEADLINE FOR CERTAIN PEOPLE WITH CRIMINAL CONVICTIONS

If you were in deportation proceedings prior to April 23, 1996 and have been ordered deported because of your criminal record, you may qualify to have your case reopened. Contact the Office for further details!!

LIFE ACT UPDATE

Extension of the 245i deadline (which occurred on April 30, 2001) is waiting approval in the Senate. We will let you know when we hear news

Don't forget about TPS for El Salvador
and the Child Citizenship Act
(green cards for kids of U.S. citizens!)
See our March newsletter!