What is DACA?

What is DACA (What is DACA? Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals)?

In many cases, when undocumented migrants enter the US they do so with their family. This means that children are brought along and they too become undocumented individuals. Children and young migrants often do not have a choice of whether they should illegally cross the border or not – it is a choice for survival for many. In an effort to protect these children and young migrants, the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals program (DACA) provides temporary protection from deportation. Furthermore, the minors and youth protected by DACA are commonly called the Dreamers.

Get Eligible for Deferred Action

More specifically, the program protects from deportation and permits the Dreamers to receive certain forms of documentation. The protection lasts for two years. In those two years, the young undocumented immigrants can enroll in university and receive legal work offers. In order to be eligible for deferred action, Dreamers must meet certain criteria. Some of the requirements include age limits, educational standards, and restrictions on the number of years physically present in the US. Some of the specific requirements include, but are not limited to, the following: must have been under the age of 31 as of June 15, 2012, did not have legal status to reside in the US as of June 15, 2012, and must not have a criminal record that shows a felony conviction, three or more misdemeanors, or pose a threat to security.

Those applying for DACA for the first time must include extensive documentation that proves they meet all of the criteria. Given the sheer number of documents and forms that must be included, it is advised that applicants seek the advice of legal experts. Some of the documents include proof of identity, immigration status, physical presence, and school records. For some requirements, applicants must file additional forms. While a renewal requires less documentation, applicants must still file various forms that require proofs of status. While the process may seem daunting, it can be made less stressful with the aid of experienced counsel like those at Sethi and Mazaheri.