WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW

DACA, or the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals is a policy of the Department of Homeland Security that allows certain immigrants who came to the United States before age 16, to continue to live and work in the United States for two years. To avoid a lapse, DACA should be renew four to five months ahead of their expiration date. If you entered the Unites States as a child you may qualify for DACA. The four main benefits you will get when you apply for DACA in North Carolina are:

• You will be exempt from deportation.
• You will be able to apply for a social security card.
• You will receive a work permit.
• You will become eligible to get a driver’s license and automobile insurance.
• There is not a deadline by which you must initially apply for DACA. It is important to talk to an immigration attorney to make sure you have a successful case.
  To qualify for DACA you must meet these eligibility requirements
• Have come to the United States before you were 16.
• Have continuously lived in the United States since June 15 2007.
• Were physically present in the United States on June 15, 2012, and at the time of making the request for consideration of deferred action with USCIS.
• Entered without inspection before June 15, 2012, or lawful immigration status expired as of June 15, 2012.
• 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.
• Have not been convicted of a felony, significant misdemeanor, three or more misdemeanors, and are not a threat to national security or public safety.
• Have completed a background check.