What is DACA? What is Trump Planning?

​The Deferred Action for Childhood Arrival (DACA) is a law that allows undocumented immigrants that qualify to receive two-year work permits and to receive an exemption from deportation. President Obama created the immigration policy in 2012 to stall deportation efforts against immigrants that were brought to the United States as children. The concept behind the policy is that immigrant children should not face deportation consequences for their parents’ immigration actions. 

DACA is a temporary relief from immigration enforcement; it is not a legal immigration status that leads to a green card or citizenship. However, DACA does provide immigrants many options they would not have otherwise. DACA recipients can work, obtain a driver’s license, and apply for the proper paperwork to travel abroad and return to the United States. Nearly 800,000 immigrants have benefited from the program.
 
This week there have been many media reports that President Trump will soon end DACA. The Trump administration has not issued a statement yet. If you are a DACA recipient or possibly qualify, here are four things you need to know while we await a decision from the Trump administration:

1. First-Time Application: Considering the current immigration climate, it may be a risk right now to apply for DACA for the first time. If you are thinking about apply, speak with an immigration attorney about your eligibility and the possible risks involved.

 

1. Renewing Your DACA: Again, it is unclear whether the program will be continued; therefore, speak with an attorney to see whether renewal is your best option.

 

1. DACA Proof and Paperwork: Now more than ever, it is important that you keep proof of your DACA status with you. Keep a copy of your work authorization card and DACA approval notice with you at all times.

 

1. Remember You have Rights: The U.S. Constitution provides right to everyone – You do not have to be a citizen to have rights. You have a right to a lawyer. You have a right to refuse a search if you are stopped by the police, but are not under arrest. You have a right to remain silent if stopped by an immigration officer.

 
We will provide more updates soon. 

If you want to learn more information about DACA and your immigration options, visit our website at www.ImmigraTrust.com. Like our Facebook page to receive updates! 

--Najmeh Mahmoudjafari, J.D.
Najmeh is the Founder and Lead Immigration Attorney at ImmigraTrust Law, an immigration law practice in Orange County, California, representing individual and corporate clients in all 50 U.S. States and internationally. Najmeh can be reached at Najmeh@ImmigraTrust.com.