(a) is not eligible, due to immigration status, for comparable federal cash assistance or SNAP benefits and has filed and been approved for, or is awaiting final determination regarding:
(1) a formal application for T Nonimmigrant status with the appropriate federal agency pursuant to Section 1101(a)(15)(T) of Title 8 of the United States Code, or is otherwise taking steps to meet the conditions for federal benefits eligibility under Section 7105 of Title 22 of the United States Code;
(2) a formal application with the appropriate federal agency for status pursuant to Section 1101(a)(15)(U) of Title 8 of the United States Code; or
(3) a formal application with the appropriate federal agency for status under Section 1158 of Title 8 of the United States Code; and