1. DACA PRESERVED. Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA), which began as an Obama-era program and which the prior administration attempted to close, is back in full force. No word yet on if the entry-date requirement will be changed, but anyone eligible for DACA should apply now.
2. ICE ENFORCEMENT PRIORITIES REVISED. Under the prior administration, anyone and everyone without status was a priority for deportation, despite limited resources by ICE. Priorities are now being changed and ICE will pursue those with criminal records and prior removal orders. ICE will also stop family separation.
3. REMAIN IN MEXICO SUSPENDED. The MPP program, better known as “Remain in Mexico” is now suspended and no additional individuals will be added to the program. However, those currently in the program will unfortunately continue to wait outside the United States, and may be left out of the proposed immigration bill submitted to Congress.
4. TEMPORARY MORATORIUM ON DEPORTATIONS. Beginning January 22, 2021 DHS, ICE, CBP, and USCIS will pause removals for certain noncitizens who have removal orders, to ensure compliance with a fair and effective immigration enforcement system. Immigration Court hearings will still take place and individuals can still be ordered removed, however their physical removal from the country will be temporarily halted.
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