Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program has played a significant role in the lives of undocumented individuals who came to the United States as children
What Is DACA?
The DACA program also referred to as Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals, was created to protect undocumented immigrants who were brought to the US as kids. The program does not grant them official legal status or a pathway to citizenship, but it does allow them to apply for a driver’s license, social security number, and work permit.
DACA program was introduced in 2012 as an executive action to protect eligible undocumented individuals, commonly known as Dreamers, from deportation and provide them with temporary work permits. It aimed to address the challenges faced by those brought to the United States as children, offering them an opportunity to contribute to their communities and pursue their dreams without the constant fear of being separated from their families.
Through DACA, Dreamers can apply for temporary protection from deportation and receive work authorization, allowing them to pursue higher education, obtain employment, and actively participate in society.
A few requirements that would allow an individual to gain protection under the DACA program.
- Have entered the United States unlawfully prior to their 16th birthday
- Have lived continuously in the United States since June 15, 2007
- Were under age 31 on June 15, 2012 (born on June 16, 1981 or after)
- Were physically present in the US on June 15, 2012, and at the time of making their request for consideration of deferred action with the USCIS
- Had no lawful status on June 15, 2012
- Have completed high school or a GED, have been honorably discharged from the armed forces, or are enrolled in school
- Have not been convicted of a felony or a serious misdemeanor, or three or more other misdemeanors, and do not otherwise pose a threat to national security or public safety
How To Apply for DACA
To submit a new DACA application and get work authorization, you must file these three forms:
Form I-821D: Consideration of Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals
Form I-765: Application for Employment Authorization
Form I-765WS: Worksheet for Form I-765
Submit your supporting documents
Pay the assosciated fees ($495 USD)
Schedule and attend your biometrics appointment