DACA stands for “Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals.”
This is a temporary immigration benefit that does not lead to permanent residence (a green card), which you need to become a citizen.
In order to qualify for DACA, you have to show the following:
- You entered the US for the first time before you were 16.
- You have lived in the U.S. continuously from at least June 15, 2007 to now.
- You were in the U.S. on June 15, 2012
- You are currently in school or a school program, or you have already received your high school diploma or GED.
- You were at least 15 but not older than 30 as of June 15, 2012.
- You have not had certain criminal convictions.
A DACA application costs $465, but if you are in foster care or are homeless, you may be able to get this fee waived.
DO NOT TRY TO APPLY FOR DACA WITHOUT THE AID OF A QUALIFIED IMMIGRATION ATTORNEY. There are many organizations in Los Angeles that offer free or low-cost legal consultations for DACA-eligible youth.