DACA Has Ended, But It's Not Over
DACA Has Ended, But It's Not Over
DACA or Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals is a program created by former U.S. President Barack Obama on June 15, 2012. This program protects approximately 800,000 undocumented individuals from deportation. In order to qualify for DACA, the applicant must satisfy the following requirements:
- Must have entered the U.S. before the age of 16;
- Must be under the age of 31 as of June 15, 2012;
- Must have been continuously present in the U.S. since June 15, 2007 (brief absences are allowed);
- Must be currently enrolled in school, graduated from high school, obtained a GED, and/or were honorably discharged from the Armed Forces or Coast Guard; and
- Has not been convicted of a felony or certain misdemeanors.
Renewal of DACA Program
As of September 5, 2017, USCIS is no longer accepting applications for first-time or initial DACA requests; however, USCIS is still processing renewal applications for current DACA beneficiaries whose status expires between September 5, 2017, and March 5, 2017. The renewal request must be received no later than October 5, 2017.
Please retain a copy of the renewal application and proof the application should have been received by USCIS on or before October 5, 2017.
There May be Other Options
Immigration laws are constantly changing. Also, the individual’s unique circumstances may also change, thus affecting their eligibility for immigration relief.
Certain factors, including marriage to a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident, lawful entry to the U.S., placement in removal proceedings, and other factors can greatly affect your case. It is important to consult an experienced immigration attorney regarding your specific circumstances.
This is Not the End for Dreamers
The recision of the DACA program has put increased pressure on both Republicans and Democrats to pass federal legislation that would protect Dreamers permanently. Under the DACA program, there was no path to citizenship or a green card. Hopefully, the new federal legislation would provide a finite solution for Dreamers.
Houston DACA Renewal Attorney
Tatiauna Holland is the managing attorney of Holland Law Firm, PLLC, immigration and criminal defense law firm based in the Greenspoint Area of Houston, Texas.
The Holland Law Firm, PLLC proudly represents clients in family-based immigration, employment-based immigration, and deportation defense, including DACA, employment authorization, family visa petitions, and more.
Contact the Holland Law Firm, PLLC (832) 328-7877 or submit an online form to discuss your case today.
References
USCIS- Consideration of Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals
