Deferred Action For Childhood Arrivals
Many undocumented children were brought into the U.S. at a very young age. They grew up here, attended U.S. schools and often think of themselves as true Americans. However, because they have no legal status, they are still at risk of being deported from the country.
The idea behind Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) is to give qualifying individuals a work authorization and defer any type of deportation or removal proceeding.
Qualifying For DACA
DACA went into effect on August 15, 2012. While DACA will not make you a legal resident or provide any kind of legal status, it can allow you to work in the U.S. without fear of being torn away from your home and family. It may also allow you to obtain a driver’s license and Social Security number.
You may request to be considered for DACA if you:
- Were under the age of 31 as of June 15, 2012
- Came to the United States before reaching your 16th birthday
- Have continuously resided in the U.S. since June 15, 2007, up to the present time
- Were physically present in the U.S. on June 15, 2012, and when you made your request
- Entered without inspection before June 15, 2012, or your lawful immigration status expired as of June 15, 2012
- Are currently in school, have graduated or obtained a certificate of completion from high school, have obtained a general education development (GED) certificate or are an honorably discharged veteran of the Coast Guard or armed forces of the United States
- Have not been convicted of a felony, significant misdemeanor, three or more other misdemeanors, and do not otherwise pose a threat to national security or public safety
**CAUTION** Each individual who applies must first pass a background check. The Department of Homeland Security will make decisions on a case-by-case basis. This means there is no guarantee that relief will be granted in all cases.
Learn More Today
Contact the DACA attorneys at Massey Law Associates to assess your eligibility for this relief and to begin your application process by email. Please contact us to arrange a consultation and learn more about how we can serve your immigration needs.