Expanded DACA opens February 18, 2015
One of the President’s executive actions on immigration announced November 20, 2014 included an “expanded” form of DACA or Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals. The new criteria for the expanded DACA are:
1. Entered the USA prior to reaching age 16;
2. Entered the USA before and maintained physical presence since 1/1/2010 ;
3. Have a high school diploma, GED or currently in school; and
4. Have no disqualifying criminal convictions, such as a three misdemeanors or a significant misdemeanor, such a a DUI (traffic offenses are usually ok).
Not only did the ‘expanded’ DACA allow an more recent entry date (1/1/2010 from 06/15/2007) but it also removed the age ‘cap’ on DACA applicants. Prior, all DACA applicants MUST have been under age 31 as of June 15 2012. This age limited seemed to unfairly differentiate between potential applicants. What is the difference between someone 30 versus 31? Why should it matter? Well, finally everyone realized that the age cap on DACA was unfairly treating some potential applicants and President Obama have the cap removed. Maybe this will not affect a lot of people, but it certainly will make a world of difference for the few it does help.
If you think that you may be eligible for expanded DACA , contact me today to set up a consultation, either in person or over the phone!