Updated Information for DREAMers (Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals)

USCIS recently updated its Frequently Asked Questions on the deferred action for Childhood Arrivals (DREAMers) program.

The highlights:

You cannot travel outside of the United States after August 15, 2012 and still be considered for deferred action.  Once deferred action is granted, travel abroad is not automatic.  You will need to apply for advance parole before leaving.

You do not need to document each and every day of continued presence.  Affidavits can be used to explain any gaps in formal documentation of your presence.  But, you must submit two or more affidavits from people who have direct, personal knowledge of your presence in the United States.

You may need to provide evidence from your employer.  USCIS promises:  "This information will not be shared with ICE for civil immigration enforcement purposes pursuant to INA section 274A unless there is evidence of egregious violations of criminal statutes or widespread abuses."  Two things to note on this one.  First, this is just a promise, and not law.  Second, USCIS says it will share information with ICE in cases showing that the employer engaged in eggregious violations of the law.

Here is the website:

http://www.uscis.gov/portal/site/uscis/menuitem.eb1d4c2a3e5b9ac89243c6a7543f6d1a/?vgnextoid=3a4dbc4b04499310VgnVCM100000082ca60aRCRD&vgnextchannel=3a4dbc4b04499310VgnVCM100000082ca60aRCRD