Please note this information was compiled and published in July 2022.

Please note this information was compiled and published in July 2022.

“The Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program was initiated by former President Obama on June 15, 2012. The program protects certain undocumented persons who were brought to the United States as children from deportation. Additionally, persons who qualify for DACA can get work permits and, in some cases, international travel permits” (Carl Shusterman).

What is DACA?

You may request DACA if you:

  1. Were under the age of 31 as of June 15, 2012;

  2. Came to the United States before reaching your 16th birthday;

  3. Have continuously resided in the United States since June 15, 2007, up to the present time;

  4. Were physically present in the United States on June 15, 2012, and at the time of making your request for consideration of deferred action with USCIS;

  5. Had no lawful status on June 15, 2012, meaning that:

    • You never had a lawful immigration status on or before June 15, 2012, or

    • Any lawful immigration status or parole that you obtained prior to June 15, 2012, had expired as of June 15, 2012;

  6. 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; and

  7. Have not been convicted of a felony, significant misdemeanor, or three or more other misdemeanors, and do not otherwise pose a threat to national security or public safety.

(U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services)

Requirements