American immigration: What you need to know

When your path to citizenship is damaged and difficult, you just want to know you can eventually live freely in the United States. News released on January 9 shows that President Trump may sign a new bill that would offer protections to over 800,000 people who immigrated to the United States as children.

Children who were brought to the United States by their parents or others at a young age previously had some protections under the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals policy. While DACA has been under siege, the new changes could be positive for immigrants from all walks of life.

What is happening with immigration reform in the United States?

Immigration reform is a complicated matter in America. People have different ideas about who should enter the country and why. The President calls for a fix to DACA specifically. The Development, Relief, and Education for Alien Minors Act is in the legislative process. You may also know it as the DREAM Act. It is not yet an approved federal law, but it could be in the future.

If it does receive approval, the act would grant unconditional residency to minors who meet the qualifications. Many believe that this act is a necessary step to helping those who have lived in the United State their entire lives but who stand on a fine line between remaining in the country illegally and facing deportation.

Coming to the United States isn’t easy, and for children who had no choice, their inability to obtain citizenship through a standard pathway is an ongoing and growing concern. Individuals looking to obtain citizenship or residency should stay in close touch with their attorneys while this legislation is pending, so they have immediate information if and when approval comes.