DACA Recipients Popular Questions in New Jersey

Can DACA Recipients Travel Outside The U.S.?

In some limited circumstances, individuals with DACA may travel outside the United States with permission from U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). This type of travel is known as “advance parole” and requires the individual to apply for and receive approval from USCIS before leaving the country. Advance parole is not guaranteed and may be denied by USCIS.

Can DACA Recipients Get A Driver’S License in New Jersey?

Yes, DACA recipients can get a driver’s license in New Jersey. In 2019, Governor Phil Murphy signed legislation that allowed all New Jersey residents, regardless of their immigration status, to apply for a driver’s license. This law took effect in December 2019 and all applicants must meet the licensing requirements set by the state.

Can DACA Recipients Get Financial Aid For College in New Jersey?

Yes. DACA recipients in New Jersey can apply for financial aid for college, including grants, work-study programs, and private scholarships. The New Jersey Higher Education Student Assistance Authority (HESAA) administers state programs for students, which includes the Tuition Aid Grant (TAG) and the NJ Dreamers Grant Program. Additionally, students may qualify for federal financial aid under the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) program.

Can DACA Recipients Get A Social Security Number (Ssn) in New Jersey?

Yes, DACA recipients are eligible to obtain a social security number (SSN) in New Jersey. According to the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), DACA recipients may apply for an SSN by showing evidence of their approved DACA status and an acceptable identity document.

Can DACA Recipients Get Health Insurance Through Their Employer in New Jersey?

Yes, DACA recipients who are employed in New Jersey are eligible to receive health insurance through their employer, if their employer provides health insurance for all employees. However, some employers may choose not to provide benefits to DACA recipients due to their uncertain legal status in the United States.

Can DACA Recipients Get Married To A U.S. Citizen in New Jersey?

Yes. DACA recipients are allowed to marry a U.S. citizen in New Jersey. There are no restrictions due to DACA status when it comes to marriage. The process for getting married in New Jersey is the same as for any other couple.

Can DACA Recipients Apply For Citizenship in New Jersey?

Yes, DACA recipients in New Jersey are eligible to apply for U.S. citizenship. DACA recipients must meet the same eligibility requirements as any other person applying for U.S. citizenship, including having a green card, passing an English and civics test, and demonstrating good moral character.

Can DACA Recipients Sponsor Family Members For Immigration in New Jersey?

DACA recipients are not able to sponsor family members for immigration in New Jersey or any other state. DACA (Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals) does not provide a path to legal permanent residency, meaning that it does not offer any of the benefits of a green card, including sponsoring family members for immigration.

Can DACA Recipients Renew Their DACA Status in New Jersey?

Yes, DACA recipients can renew their DACA status in New Jersey. They can apply for a renewal up to 120 days prior to the expiration date of their DACA status. The USCIS New Jersey Field Office is responsible for processing DACA applications and renewal requests for residents of New Jersey.

Can DACA Recipients Work For Any Employer in New Jersey?

Yes. DACA recipients can work for any employer in New Jersey, provided they have the proper work authorization. They can apply for a work authorization card, or an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) through U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).

Can DACA Recipients Apply For A Mortgage Or Home Loan in New Jersey?

Yes, DACA recipients can apply for a mortgage or home loan in New Jersey. However, they must meet the same qualifications as any other borrower. This includes having a steady source of income, good credit score, and a down payment. DACA recipients should also be aware that they will not be eligible for certain government-backed mortgages, such as FHA or VA loans.

Can DACA Recipients Get A Professional License in New Jersey?

Yes, DACA recipients can get a professional license in New Jersey. The NJ Department of Banking and Insurance (DOBI) is the agency responsible for licensing professional trades such as real estate, insurance, and money transmission. Individuals seeking to obtain a professional license in New Jersey must meet all licensing requirements, including the submission of fingerprints. However, those with DACA status are eligible to submit fingerprints and may qualify for a professional license.

Can DACA Recipients Serve In The Military in New Jersey?

Yes, DACA recipients may serve in the military in New Jersey. DACA recipients can become eligible for enlistment if they meet the criteria established by the Department of Defense and the Department of Homeland Security.

Can DACA Recipients Apply For Financial Aid From Private Colleges in New Jersey?

Yes, DACA recipients are eligible to apply for financial aid from private colleges in New Jersey. Private colleges typically set their own financial aid criteria and policies, so DACA recipients should reach out to individual schools to understand the specific requirements for applying for financial aid.

Can DACA Recipients Get A Work Permit If DACA Is Terminated in New Jersey?

No, if DACA is terminated in New Jersey, DACA recipients cannot get a work permit. DACA is a federal program, and the federal government is the only entity that can grant work permits based on DACA status.

Can DACA Recipients Get A Green Card (Permanent Residency) in New Jersey?

Yes, DACA recipients can get a green card (permanent residency) in New Jersey. There are several pathways to obtaining permanent residency, including applying for a family-based green card, or through employment sponsorship. Additionally, DACA recipients may be eligible to apply for a green card through the Temporary Protected Status (TPS) program or through the U Visa program.

Can DACA Recipients Be Deported If DACA Is Terminated in New Jersey?

Yes, if DACA is terminated in New Jersey, DACA recipients can be subject to deportation proceedings. However, it is important to note that DACA recipients still have certain rights, including the right to challenge their potential deportation in immigration court. Individuals should speak with an experienced immigration attorney to learn about their rights and options if they are facing deportation proceedings.

Can DACA Recipients Get A Professional Degree Or Advanced Education in New Jersey?

Yes, DACA recipients can pursue a professional degree or advanced education in New Jersey. DACA recipients are eligible for in-state tuition rates at public colleges and universities in New Jersey, and for financial aid and scholarships at all schools in the state. Additionally, DACA recipients may be eligible for professional licensure and certification in some fields, depending on the specific requirements of the licensing board.

Can DACA Recipients Apply For A Credit Card in New Jersey?

Yes, DACA (Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals) recipients can apply for a credit card in New Jersey. However, like any other credit card application, their eligibility will depend on their credit score, income, and other factors. DACA recipients may be required to provide additional documentation to verify their identity and income when applying for a credit card.

Can DACA Recipients Apply For Unemployment Benefits in New Jersey?

No, DACA recipients cannot apply for unemployment benefits in New Jersey. According to the New Jersey Department of Labor and Workforce Development, only individuals who are legally authorized to work in the United States are eligible to receive unemployment benefits.