Mexican Consulate reaches out to Mexican nationals

SAN DIEGO (KUSI) – It was a controversial move by President Obama last week that bypassed Congress to protect undocumented immigrants.

On Monday, the Mexican Consulate reached out to Mexican nationals to make sure they understand what it will all mean for them.

The President’s executive action does not mean an easier path to permanent residency or citizenship.

Baby Victor was born in the United States, his mother Judith, was not. They live here in San Diego.

“In the past if she would be even get caught by immigration she’d be sent back to Mexico, and I wouldn’t know what to do with the baby. Horrible. It would be yes,” said Victor.

Victor Gonzalez, Judith’s husband and the baby’s father, came here from Mexico when he was eleven.

He fell under DACA, Deferred Action For Childhood Arrivals, an immigration policy enacted by President Obama in 2012.

It allows certain undocumented immigrants who come here before their 16th birthday to get a work permit and I.D., and stay for two years.

Last week’s executive action expanded DACA, protecting people who have been here illegally for at least five years, and protecting parents of children born here, from being deported.

The move will keep this family together for now.

In a news conference in both Spanish and English, the Consul General of Mexico explained what the executive action will do for the U.S. Economy.

Remedios Gomez Arnau said more than one million undocumented immigrants in California have at least one child born here in the U.S.

“If these people apply and pay taxes, if could translate to $745 million of additional tax revenues for the state of California in five years,” said Arnau.

Officials on both sides of the border are warning people not hire anyone now who offers to help them apply for these protections.

“There is no application. There are no fees associated. We don’t know when that will come. We want to prevent any fraud or scams,” said Alvarez.

Victor Gonzalez paid his tuition at San Diego State in cash. He graduated and is now a social worker at a non-profit.

He knows this is not a permanent solution for his family, but he is hoping an immigration law will pass soon.

“We just want the contribute to the country, why not give us a chance,” said Victor.

The Consul General of Mexico expects the application process to begin within three to six months.

Then, officials say they will hand out pamphlets and hold workshops to help everyone fill out the paperwork the right way.