Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) is an immigration policy that allows undocumented individuals who were brought to the United States as children to avoid deportation. Applications to this program were previously on hold pending litigation, but recent court decisions have allowed new applications to the program for the first time in years. An experienced immigration attorney could advise you on the requirements for DACA coverage.
Applications may be open, but acceptance is not guaranteed. There are strict requirements for DACA eligibility, and a mistake on your application could have steep consequences. It could be possible to avoid these mistakes when applying for DACA coverage in Naperville with the help of a qualified attorney.
Not every undocumented person will qualify for coverage under DACA. The program is intended for individuals who were brought to the United States as minors, though some adults may also apply depending on their particular circumstances.
The first eligibility requirement is based on an applicant’s birth date. Only individuals who were under the age of 31 on June 15, 2012, qualify for coverage. Additionally, these individuals must have resided in the United States continuously since at least June 15, 2007. Applicants must have arrived in the United States no later than their 16th birthday.
Another important consideration is the length of time an applicant has remained in the United States. To be eligible for DACA, an applicant must have been physically present in the U.S. since June 15, 2012. This includes the date the application is submitted.
There are also strict work and education requirements for DACA applicants in Naperville. This program requires applicants to have either pursued higher education or served in the military. To qualify for DACA coverage, an applicant must have been honorably discharged from the military. Alternatively, an applicant must currently be enrolled in school, have graduated high school, or obtained a GED certificate.
Finally, applicants must maintain a clean criminal history to apply for DACA, which means they must not have a conviction for a felony or a significant misdemeanor. Three convictions for misdemeanors will also render an applicant ineligible, and DACA coverage is not available to individuals deemed as national security threats.
Approval for DACA coverage in Naperville requires the submission of certain documentary evidence. First, applicants need documents that prove their identity, such as a passport or a birth certificate that includes photo identification.
An application also needs documentation that an individual entered the country before he or she reached the age of 16. This could include school records, passports, or other travel records. An applicant should also be prepared to produce records that establish their continuous residence in the United States. Other documents that could play a role in the application process include:
A skilled attorney in the area could help you procure all of the necessary documents for your DACA application to give you the best chance at securing approval.
If you believe that you are eligible to apply for DACA coverage in Naperville, the strength of your application materials could determine your acceptance to the program. The application process is lengthy, and a failure to meet each requirement could result in a denial.
Do not put your status in the country at risk. Reach out to an attorney who could help you prepare your DACA application by scheduling a consultation today.
