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What is DACA?

The Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) is a 2-year American executive order, signed by former President Barack Obama in 2012 which temporarily protects eligible immigrant youth, known as “DREAMers” from deportation. The term “DREAMers” refers to young individuals who illegally came to the United States with their parents when they were children or teenagers. Most of these young people have grown up as Americans and have no connection with their birth country. Through DACA, immigrant youth are not only provided temporary protection from deportation but can also obtain work permits. Similarly, The Dream Act is a bill that was first introduced in 2001 that if passed, would permit eligible undocumented individuals to apply for temporary legal status, leading them on a path to U.S. Citizenship. Roughly 800,000 undocumented individuals have applied and received DACA protections. Have you ever wondered if you qualify to be a DACA recipient? Find out now!

 

DACA Recipient Criteria

To be eligible for DACA, there are certain guidelines an individual must meet to be accepted. Some of these guidelines include:

  • Arrived in the United States before the age of 16.
  • Resided in the United States since June 15, 2007.
  • Could not be older than 30 when the Department of Homeland Security enacted the policy in 2012.
  • Has not been convicted of any felony offenses.
  • The recipient must provide evidence that they were living in the United States during the prescribed times by passing background checks, fingerprints, and various other biometric         checks.

It is important to note that each case will not be the same and an applicant can be subject to meeting other criteria as well. Once approved for the DACA program, recipients are eligible for work authorization and are protected from deportation for 2 years. Before your DACA program expires, you will be subject to renewal.

 

How Much is a DACA Application?

Every 2 years, the fee to request DACA is $495.

 

Why Apply for DACA?

In 2017, a national study revealed that 91% of DACA recipients were employed, consequently proving the program to be of great success among undocumented young people in the U.S.

Making up 200,000 essential workers, DACA recipients prove to be fundamental to our workforce. DACA recipients range from grocery store workers, first responders, nurses, doctors, business owners, and the list goes on.

 

Need Assistance?

You should contact an immigration attorney to assist you with the right legitimate advances you have to take. At Rivera Law, we are here to help guide you through your DACA immigration process. Contact us at 561-651-9322 for your consultation with a board-certified immigration lawyer today.