DACA

With years of experience in immigration law, Immigration Aces has successfully assisted numerous young individuals who entered the United States as children, helping them secure their stay through the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program.

Why Choose Immigration Aces for DACA Support?

Our compassionate and highly knowledgeable immigration team at Immigration Aces has successfully helped over 10,000 individuals obtain various United States immigration benefits.

If you meet the eligibility criteria for the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program, our skilled immigration lawyers are here to guide you through the application process.

We help you secure the opportunity to live and work in the United States for a renewable two-year period, free from the fear of deportation.

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

The Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program allows eligible individuals to live and work in the United States for a two-year period, with the option to renew thereafter.

DACA protects approximately 800,000 individuals, commonly referred to as "DREAMERS", who entered the United States unlawfully as children.

These individuals are granted the privilege of living and working in the country under the DACA program.

Who Qualifies for the DACA Program?

Under the original Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program, you may qualify if you meet the following criteria:

• You were under 16 years of age when you arrived in the United States.
• You were physically present in the United States on June 15, 2012, and at the time of your DACA application.
• You have continuously resided in the United States since June 15, 2007, with only minor and brief departures.
• You were born after June 15, 1981, meaning you were under 31 years old on June 15, 2012.
• You entered the United States without inspection or with a visa before June 15, 2007.
• You are currently attending high school, have graduated from high school, obtained a GED certificate, or completed at least two years of university studies.
• If you already graduated high school, you must have completed two years of university studies or served in the Coast Guard or Armed Forces with an honorable discharge.
• You have not been convicted of a significant misdemeanor, three or more misdemeanors, or a felony, and you do not pose a threat to public safety or national security.

How Long Does DACA Last?

DACA status must be renewed every two years.

It is important to remember that this program provides a temporary solution for remaining in the United States, and its future remains uncertain due to ongoing legal challenges.

If you are seeking alternative options to legally stay in the United States, our experienced immigration attorneys at Immigration Aces are here to guide you and explore all available legal pathways.

Advantages of DACA

While DACA does not provide permanent legal status, it offers several important benefits:

• Obtain a Social Security Number: DACA recipients are eligible to apply for a Social Security number, opening access to numerous opportunities and benefits.
• Obtain a Driver's License: DACA recipients may obtain a driver's license in many states, allowing them to drive legally.
• Work in the United States: DACA allows recipients to work legally and pursue employment opportunities.
• Study in the United States: DACA recipients can attend colleges and universities, opening doors to educational and career growth.
• Travel with Advance Parole: Under approved circumstances, DACA recipients may receive temporary permission to travel outside the United States and return lawfully.
• Apply for Renewal: DACA may be renewed every two years, allowing recipients to maintain work authorization and protected status.

The Current Status of DACA

The Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program was established in June 2012 during the Obama administration.

Subsequent efforts to phase out the program resulted in legal challenges, ultimately leading to its reinstatement under President Joe Biden.

Here is an overview of the current state of DACA:

• Renewal and Benefits: Existing DACA holders can continue renewing their status and applying for benefits, including Advance Parole.
• First-Time Requests: USCIS continues accepting first-time requests, although processing is subject to legal limitations.
• Duration of Protection: USCIS extended DACA grants from one year to two years.
• Employment Authorization: Work authorization documents can also be extended from one year to two years.

It is essential to stay informed about updates and policy changes related to DACA. Consulting with experienced immigration attorneys can provide valuable guidance throughout the DACA application or renewal process.