DREAM RESOURCE CENTER
Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA)
Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals or DACA is a 2012 Obama administration policy shift. DACA allows qualifying AB-540 students to apply for a temporary (2-year) work permit, temporary Social Security number (valid for work authorization only), and protection from deportation. Students can reapply every two years. DACA does not grant permanent legal status or provide a path to citizenship. It only is a temporary measure.
Who is eligible for DACA?
The main eligibility criteria for DACA are:
- You must be 15-30 years old to apply
- Under 21 years old as of June 15, 2012 (the date of the President's announcement)
- You must have arrived in the U.S. before you turned 16
- In order to apply, you must be continuously present in the U.S. for a minimum of 5 years
- You must have been present in the U.S. on June 15, 2012
- You are currently in high school, have earned a GED or high school diploma, or have been honorably discharged from the U.S. armed forces
- You must have a clear criminal record
For more specific details about DACA qualifications, how to apply for DACA, what documents are needed, and legal assistance with applications, please visit Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA).
Recent Expansion of DACA
On November 20, 2014, President Obama announced two important expansions of the DACA Program which could potentially help an additional 4.4 million people. The two main points are:
- Expansion of Deferred Action (DACA) expands the age range of eligible applicants
- Deferred Action for Parents of Americans (DAPA) expands Deferred Action to parents of U.S. Citizens
However, please note that a Federal District Court in Texas has issued an order that BLOCKS this from moving forward. This expansion is currently ON HOLD until the United States Supreme Court hears the case and makes a ruling. People cannot yet apply.