On 15th June, 2012, the Dreamers Act was passed, giving rise to DACA, which is an acronym for deferred action for childhood arrivals. U. S. Citizens as well as illegal immigrants in the country had mixed reactions about this new law, with some people thinking that the government had failed them, while others thought that the law was a step in the right direction. Lawmakers formulated this law to help aliens who have been living in the United States for several years to get legal recognition.
DACA is not for every illegal immigrant. As the name suggests, deferred action is meant for foreigners who came to the country illegally while still in their childhood. In other words, only those who came to the U. S. Before their 16th birthday qualify for DACA. The Dreamers Act goes into great detail to explain who can apply for deferred action.
Many people do not have a clear understanding of what DACA really is. There are those who think that it’s some form of temporary permit that leads to permanent residency. Others think that it is a pathway to citizenship. Well, the truth is that DACA is neither of these. It is simply deferral of removal action. In other words, the illegal immigrant must be removed, but there is no hurry to deport him or her.
One of the most important points to note about the Dreamers Act is that it only applies to individuals who arrived into the country illegally while still minors. These individuals can apply if on June 15th, 2012, they were less than 31 years old. The applicants must also prove that they were present in the country, continuously, for the 24 months that preceded the passing of the Dreamers Act.
When federal agencies are processing applications, they must ensure that applicants do not pose any threat to national security. After all, the Dreamers Act was formulated by lawmakers with public interest in mind. Applicants who have committed crimes in the past will have their applications rejected.
When debating whether or not to pass the Dreamers Act, lawmakers appreciated the fact that there are many people who may have entered the country illegally while still in their childhood, but have since done a lot to pursue the American dream. According to the lawmakers, these individuals should not be punished for pursuing their dreams.
There are many documents that must be submitted together with the application form for deferred action. This may include school transcripts, proof of identity and nationality, proof of continuous stay in the country, a street address and any other type of evidence that may be required. Applicants should be truthful when filling forms and answering questions.
Deferred action for childhood arrivals, or DACA, is only valid for two years. After this period lapses, the applicant can be deported, an extension may be granted upon request. During these two years, a person may seek the appropriate documentation to live, study or work in the United States. When applying for deferred action, applicants are advised to seek legal counsel.
If you would like to know more about immigration law and DACA, click this link to the Immigration Law Group. Our team of immigration professionals works diligently to reduce the difficulties associated with the immigration process, and you can find us online today at http://www.immigrationgroup.com.