What is DACA?
DACA stands for Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals. It was instituted into law in 2012, serving individuals who arrived in the USA without the correct documentation, or who overstayed their visas because of their parents. Deferred action can be granted to individuals who are at risk for removal due to deportation proceedings. Once deferred action is applied, the individual in question is eligible for employment authorization application, and is granted the status of being legally present in the United States.
How can I qualify for DACA?
In order to qualify for DACA, you must meet the following legal criteria:- You must have arrived in the United States when you are under 16.
- You must have been under the age of 31 as of June 15th, 2012.
- You must have lived in the United States continually since June 15th, 2007.
- You must have entered the USA with no inspection before June 15th 2012.
- You were inside the United States on June 15th, 2012.
- You must be inside the US during your DACA application.
- You must have not been convicted of a felony or extreme misdemeanor.
Contact an experienced New York City immigration attorney in order to discuss the varying factors that might benefit your legal status eligibility factors under DACA. Please don’t hesitate to contact our offices at 718-891-0007.