Central American Minors (CAM) Program
The Central American Minors (CAM) Program began in 2014 as a way for lawfully based US parents and guardians to file for their at-risk children in Honduras, Guatemala, and El Salvador to join them in the US as refugees. The children are processed in their home countries and reunited with their families through the US Refugee Admissions Program.
The CAM Program was terminated in 2017, but as of 2021, the State Department has reopened the program and is accepting old and new applications alike. The IRC in Los Angeles is here to help you reopen or file a new CAM Program application and begin the family reunification process today!
Who is eligible to apply?
Those who filed applications prior to the program being terminated in 2017 are eligible to reopen their cases. The program has also expanded its eligibility requirements and is accepting new applicants.
To submit an application, the U.S.-based parent or legal guardian must be at least 18 years old and in the United States as one of the following categories:
- Lawful permanent resident;
- Temporary Protected Status;
- Parole (for a minimum of 1 year);
- Deferred action or deferred enforced departure;
- Withholding of Removal;
- With a pending asylum application or U visa application
What are the eligibility requirements for children?
In order for a child to qualify, they must be:
- The child (genetic, step, or legally adopted) of the qualifying parent
- Unmarried and under the age of 21;
- Physically located in El Salvador, Guatemala, or Honduras; and
- A national of El Salvador, Guatemala, or Honduras.
How can I apply?
The IRC is here to help you file your application and begin your family reunification process! Please reach out to our refugee resettlement team to schedule an appointment:
- Email:[email protected] | [email protected]
- Phone: 818.482.8883 | 818.550.6220
Please visit the USCIS CAM Program website to learn more about eligibility requirements and other FAQs about the program.