Applicants May Now Apply for Consideration of Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals

On August 15, 2012, USCIS began accepting requests for Consideration of Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA). This new category of consideration is a discretionary determination made by USCIS representatives to defer removal actions of certain people. USCIS is considering DACA requests on an individual basis. The process does not provide lawful status or a path to permanent residency, but people whose cases are deferred will not be removed from the United States for a two-year period. This time period is subject to renewal; those who receive DACA may also be able to receive employment authorization.
Individuals interested in being considered for this process will need to establish certain eligibility requirements, including proof that:

• You came to the U.S. prior to your 16th birthday
• You have maintained continuous residency in the U.S. since June 15, 2007
• On June 15, 2012, you were under the age of 31
• You entered the U.S. without inspection before June 15, 2012, or your lawful immigrant status expired as of that date
• You are either in school, have graduated or obtained a general educational development certification, or you are an honorably discharged veteran of the U.S. Coast Guard or Armed Forces
• You have not been convicted of a felony, significant misdemeanor, or three or more misdemeanors, and are not otherwise a threat
• You were present in the U.S. on June 15, 2012 and at the time when you make your request for DACA consideration.

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