Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) is an Obama-era protection for undocumented immigrants who were brought to the U.S. as children. Started in 2012, the program allows young immigrants to register, which defers eligibility for removal for a period of two years. During this time, registrants are also issued a work permit, which allows them to legally work in the U.S. Applicants may renew their status after the two years are up.
Eligibility for DACA
To be considered eligible for DACA, immigrants must meet several requirements. These requirements are:
- The applicant was under the age of 31 as of June 15, 2012.
- The applicant came to the U.S. before the age of 16.
- The applicant has resided continuously in the U.S. since June 15, 2007.
- The applicant was physically present in the U.S. on June 15, 2012 and at the time of application.
- The applicant had no lawful status on June 15, 2012.
- The applicant is currently in school, has graduated from or obtained a certificate of completion from high school, has obtained a general education development (GED) certificate, or are an honorably discharged veteran of the Coast Guard or U.S. Armed Forces.
- The applicant has not been convicted of a felony, significant misdemeanor, or three or more misdemeanors, and does not pose a threat to national security or public safety.
If you meet each of the above requirements, you may be eligible for deferred removal action through DACA. Your immigration attorney can help you evaluate your case and apply for DACA. You will need to provide evidence to support your claims, but our San Jose immigration attorneys can help you prove your eligibility.
If you have questions about DACA, please get in touch with our team at the Verma Law Firm. Our lawyers are ready to answer your questions and guide you through the process of successfully applying for DACA.
Contact our offices to request a consultation. Call (408) 560-4622 today.