Applications are now being accepted for a new program that will give some young illegal immigrants the opportunity to stay and work in the U.S.
People brought into the country before their 16th birthday can now apply for a work permit without fear of deportation. To qualify, immigrants must be under the age of 31 as of June 15 this year and have no felony convictions. They also must currently be enrolled in school or have received a GED.
The Obama administration has warned that its policy wouldn't lead to citizenship or give permission to travel internationally. Those accepted into the temporary program will have to apply for renewal in two years.
The paperwork for the program, known as Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals, can be downloaded from the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services website. Applicants must pay a $465 fee and provide proof of identity and eligibility.
AP wire services contributed to this report
USCIS: 1-800-375-5283U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services