Avoid being a victim of immigration fraud and always make sure to consult a licensed attorney who practices immigration law. Do not be afraid to ask where they went to law school and what state they are licensed to practice in. Notarios or immigration consultants are not licensed to practice law and cannot represent you at a USCIS interview or in Immigration Court.

The Department of Homeland Security has published a proposal for fee increases to several USCIS forms in the Federal Register. There will be a period of 30 days to receive public opinion, with a final decision being issued as soon as December 16. 2019.

Proposed Rate Increases affect several forms, but most notable are the I-485 (adjustment of status) and the N-400 (naturalization application). The I-485 will go from $1,140 to $1610 and the N-400 will go from $640 to $1,170. Also worth noting is that for the first time in history, there will be a fee for the filing of an asylum application.

If you are eligible for naturalization or adjustment of status, it is recommended that you apply as soon as possible.

Examples of Application increases are as follows:
• Form I-290B (Notice of Appeal or Motion) from $675 to $705.
• Form I-485 (Application for Permanent Residence Registration or Adjustment of Status) from $1,140 to $1,610.
• Form I-589 (Asylum Application) from $0 to $50.
• Form I-751 (Petition to Remove Conditional Residency) from $595 to $760.
• Form I-765 (Work Permit) from $410 to $490.
• Form I-821D (DACA) from $0 to $275.
• Form N-400 (Naturalization Request) from $640 to $1,170.

Yesterday, November 12, 2019, The Supreme Court heard oral arguments regarding whether the DACA program will be terminated. In 2017, President Trump issued an order officially ending the DACA program. Due to a Court injunction, DACA recipients were able to continue renewing their DACA until the issue is resolved.

Based on the questions asked during the oral arguments, it seems as though the conservative justices on the Court are inclined to end the DACA program. It was indicated the Justice Roberts might be the deciding vote and that the decision is likely to come down in early Spring 2020.

It is important that all current DACA recipients consult an immigration attorney to determine if they are eligible for any other immigration relief should DACA be terminated.

On January 13, 2018, USCIS announced its process for accepting DACA renewal applications. If you were previously granted DACA and it has not expired, you may submit an application to renew your DACA. You must also meet the following requirements in order to qualify for DACA renewal:

1. You must not have departed the U.S. on or after August 15, 2012, without first having been granted advance parole;

2. You must have resided continuously in the U.S. from the time you submitted the initial request for DACA up until the present time; and

3. You must not have been convicted of a felony, a significant misdemeanor, or three or more misdemeanors, and must not otherwise pose a threat to national security or public safety.

You should apply for your DACA and work authorization renewal at least 120 days prior to its current expiration.

The Obama Administration announced today that it will grant deferred action to certain young people. They announced that effective immediately, young people who are between the ages of 15-30 will qualify for deferred action and will be able to apply for work authorization. It will be granted for a 2 year period and can be renewed every 2 years.

The requirements to qualify for deferred action are as follows: 1. residency in the United States for more than 5 years; 2. came to the United States prior to the age of 16; 3. they are currently in school or have graduated from High School; 4. they have not been convicted of a felony or multiple misdemeanors; 5. they are younger than 30 years of age.