AUSTIN -- President Barack Obama has laid out his new policy on immigration, and those who support it are eager to help those who qualify begin the process to avoid deportation.
In Austin, leaders at the Mexican Consulate said they have the answers the immigrants are looking for. At an event Monday morning, community leaders and attorneys said they welcome the new policy and are eager to help guide anyone who may have any questions.
The help is much needed, because as with anything new comes the scammers: Those who make the "too good to be true" offers. Attorneys advise to avoid so-called "immigration consultants" and to instead only go to licensed attorneys and nonprofit organizations.
Obama said as part of the new policy, he will issue executive orders to remove the threat of deportation for nearly 5 million people living in the U.S. illegally. Most are the parents of U.S. citizens or legal residents. They will be eligible for legal status and work permits if they have been in the U.S. more than five years and have no criminal record.
If you or someone you know needs help navigating the issue call 1-855-463-6395.
The consulate is sponsoring 3 workshops in the coming weeks to give the public more information.
- Tuesday, Nov. 25, 7 p.m. at the Our Lady of Guadalupe Church at 1206 East Ninth Street
- Monday, Dec. 1, 7 p.m. at Iglesias de San Jose at 2435 Oak Crest Avenue
- Wednesday, Dec. 10, 7 p.m. at Consulado General de México en Austin (Mexican Consulate) at 410 Baylor Street
