At Ganey Law Group, we recognize the complexities surrounding immigration laws and policies. Recently, the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) announced an important update to the Child Status Protection Act (CSPA) that took effect in January 2024. This update has significant implications for individuals applying for adjustment of status, specifically in how a child’s age is calculated for immigration purposes.
To help you navigate this update, we have prepared a Q&A addressing some of the most frequently asked questions from our clients.
Q&A on the New CSPA Policy Update
Q: What is the Child Status Protection Act (CSPA)?
A: The CSPA is a federal law designed to protect the immigration status of children who might “age out” (turn 21 years old) during the immigration process, thus losing their eligibility to apply as a child of a U.S. citizen or permanent resident.
Q: How does the new CSPA policy update change the age calculation?
A: Under the new policy, USCIS will now use a different method to calculate a child’s age. This change aims to provide a more consistent and predictable way of determining age, potentially benefiting many families by allowing more children to remain eligible for immigration benefits despite delays in the process.
Q: Who is affected by this policy change?
A: This update affects children who are dependents in the family-based immigration process, particularly those applying for adjustment of status. It is crucial for families in this situation to understand how the new calculation method may impact their case.
Q: What steps should we take if we believe our child may be affected by this change?
A: We recommend consulting with an experienced immigration attorney to review your case. At Ganey Law Group, our team is ready to assist you in understanding the implications of this update and guiding you through the necessary steps to ensure your child’s eligibility is maintained.
We hope this Q&A provides clarity on the new CSPA policy update. For more detailed information or personalized assistance, please contact us at Ganey Law Group. Our dedicated team is here to help you navigate this significant change in immigration policy.
