Trusted DACA immigration Lawyer in Long Island
DACA or Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals is an immigration relief policy implemented during Obama Administration in 2012. It provides people (dreamers) who entered the United States, as under age minors, without inspection a two-year period of “deferred action” or protection from deportation. In addition, this program allows young people to receive aid for school, acquire a work permit, build personal credit history, and obtain a driver’s license in the United States. If you or someone you know is looking to obtain DACA relief, contact our firm today to speak with Olivier E. Roche, our Long Island DACA immigration lawyer, before filing your application.
The first DACA applications were accepted by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services on August 15, 2012. DACA can benefit individuals in removal proceedings or who have obtained final removal orders. It also protects those who haven’t been subject to removal proceedings.
As your trusted DACA immigration attorney, we’ll help you weigh the pros and cons of applying in relation to your needs and unique circumstances. Don’t hesitate to contact us if you have any questions about eligibility or the application process.
Criteria for Eligibility
Applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Younger than 16 years old when they came to the U.S.
- At least 15 years old at the time of application unless applicant is currently in removal proceedings, voluntary departure, or final removal order.
- Under age 31 as of June 15, 2012
- Arrived in the U.S. without inspection before June 15, 2012 or held legal immigration status that expired as of June 15, 2012
- Continuously resided in the U.S. from at least June 15, 2007 to present
- Physically in the U.S. on June 15, 2012 and at the time of DACA application
- Currently enrolled in school, graduated high school, acquired a GED certification, or honorably discharged from the Coast Guard or U.S. armed forces
- Have not been convicted of a significant misdemeanor offense
- Have not been declared guilty of a felony
- Do not pose a threat to the safety of the general public or government
In addition, applicants must pay a $495 application fee and present the following documents:
- Form I-821D
- I-765WS Worksheet
- Consideration of Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals
- I-765 Application for Employment Authorization
For individuals with granted DACA status, expect to receive your Employment Authorization Card in 4-8 months upon submission of necessary forms.
Challenges
While a DACA status offers valuable advantages and protection to young undocumented immigrants, it is not permanent. However, the Biden Administration is taking steps to further strengthen DACA.
Recently the United States Supreme Court firmly rejected the Trump Administration’s attempt to get rid of DACA and now thanks to Biden Administration Immigration Policy DACA is restored back to its status in 2012.
DACA Plays a Pivotal Piece in Biden’s Immigration Bill
- Biden’s Bill: calls for allowing undocumented immigrants to apply for temporary legal status, with the ability to apply for green cards after five years if they meet certain conditions.
- Individuals with Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals, will have additional benefits and are immediately eligible for green cards and will be given a path way to Citizenship. All stemming from DACA status
- Under Biden’s Bill Childhood Arrivals with DACA would not be subject to the 3 and 10 year bars and could also seek to “adjust their status” through family based petitions. All arising from DACA status.
This is why it’s critical to speak to an experienced immigration lawyer before applying. To know if DACA relief is right for you, contact Roche Law Group at (516) 399-0233 or email Rochelawgroup@gmail.com for a free consultation.
