Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals

Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) is a program started by President Obama that grants deferred action to certain persons who came to the United States when they were young.  If a person receives DACA, the government will not attempt to deport that person (at least during the time period covered by his or her DACA application).  A person who applies for DACA does not receive his or her green card through that application, but it is nevertheless an important way for young immigrants to avoid deportation.

You may apply for DACA if you:

1. Were under the age of 31 as of June 15, 2012;

2. Came to the United States before reaching your 16th birthday;

3. Have continuously resided in the United States since June 15, 2007, up to the present time;

4. Were physically present in the United States on June 15, 2012, and at the time of making your request for consideration of deferred action with USCIS;

5. Had no lawful status on June 15, 2012;

6. Are currently in school, have graduated or obtained a certificate of completion from high school, have obtained a general education development (GED) certificate, or are an honorably discharged veteran of the Coast Guard or Armed Forces of the United States; and

7. Have not been convicted of a felony, significant misdemeanor, or three or more other misdemeanors, and do not otherwise pose a threat to national security or public safety.

Please contact John L. Wheaton, Attorney at 206-829-8214 to set up a consultation in Spokane, WA.  Visit the government web page on DACA for more information.