1. Who is eligible for DACA?

DACA, or Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals, is a program that grants temporary protection from deportation and work authorization to individuals who meet certain criteria. To be eligible for DACA, individuals must have been under the age of 31 as of June 15, 2012, have come to the U.S. before turning 16, have continuously resided in the U.S. since June 15, 2007, and have either entered the country without authorization or overstayed their visas. They must also have graduated or obtained a certificate of completion from high school, obtained a GED certificate, or been honorably discharged from the U.S. military. Additionally, they must not have been convicted of certain criminal offenses.

2. What is the process for applying for DACA?

The process for applying for DACA involves submitting an application to United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). This includes completing an application form, providing proof of identity and residency, and submitting the necessary fees. Applicants must also provide proof of their presence in the United States for at least five years prior to the date of their application and evidence of their educational or military background.

3. What are the eligibility requirements for U.S. citizenship?

To be eligible for U.S. citizenship, an individual must meet the following requirements:
– Tener al menos 18 años de edad
– Have been a lawful permanent resident in the U.S. for at least 5 years
– Have a basic understanding of English
– Have a knowledge and understanding of U.S. history and government
– Have good moral character
– Take an Oath of Allegiance to the United States

4. What rights do DACA recipients have?

DACA recipients have the right to live and work in the United States, with a valid work permit, and to receive certain benefits such as Social Security and Medicare. They are also eligible for in-state tuition at public universities. DACA recipients may also be protected from deportation under certain circumstances.

5. Can DACA recipients travel outside of the United States?

No, DACA recipients are not allowed to travel outside of the United States. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has stated that DACA recipients are not eligible for advance parole, meaning they are unable to leave the U.S. or apply for admission into another country. They are also not allowed to travel with a travel document such as an advance parole document.

6. How long does a DACA recipient have to live in the United States?

A DACA recipient has the right to remain in the United States indefinitely, provided they remain in compliance with the guidelines set out by the program.

7. How can I get more information on U.S. citizenship and DACA recipients?

For information on U.S. citizenship, you can visit the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) website at www.uscis.gov. The USCIS also provides a range of resources and information for DACA recipients, including eligibility requirements, application instructions, and ways to contact their office for help.

8. What type of legal status does a DACA recipient have?

A DACA recipient has Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) status, which is a form of prosecutorial discretion that temporarily allows them to live and work legally in the United States. However, DACA does not provide a path to citizenship or legal permanent residence.

9. Are there any restrictions on employment for DACA recipients?

Yes, there are restrictions on employment for DACA recipients. In order to be eligible for DACA, recipients must be enrolled in school, have graduated high school or obtained a GED, and must be employed or have proof of income. Recipients must also have a valid work permit or be authorized to work. Additionally, DACA recipients are not eligible for certain government benefits and programs.

10. What types of visas and green cards are available to DACA recipients?

DACA recipients are not eligible for visas or green cards. However, there are other potential pathways for DACA recipients to gain legal status, such as the Deferred Action for Parents of Americans and Lawful Permanent Residents (DAPA), the Family Unity Program and other special circumstances.

11. Can DACA recipients become permanent residents in the United States?

Yes, DACA recipients can become permanent residents in the United States. In some cases, DACA recipients may be eligible to apply for a green card (legal permanent residency). They can do this through family-based immigration, employment-based immigration, or the diversity immigrant visa program.

12. How long does it take to become a U.S. citizen after obtaining a green card?

It typically takes five years to become a U.S. citizen after obtaining a green card, though there are some exceptions. Permanent residents who are married to U.S. citizens may become citizens in as little as three years.

13. What are the advantages of becoming a U.S. citizen?

The advantages of becoming a U.S. citizen include the right to vote and have a say in the U.S. government, access to federal benefits, including Social Security and Medicare, the ability to travel to certain countries without a visa, protection from deportation, and the right to apply for citizenship for close family members. Additionally, U.S. citizens are eligible for certain jobs that require U.S. citizenship and have more protection under U.S. laws.

14. Are there any special considerations for DACA recipients who wish to apply for U.S. citizenship?

Yes, there are special considerations for DACA recipients who wish to apply for U.S. citizenship. DACA recipients may be eligible for citizenship through the naturalization process if they meet certain eligibility requirements, including: having a green card for at least five years, having good moral character, and passing the English and civics tests. DACA recipients may also be eligible for an exemption from the physical presence requirement, which normally requires an applicant to have continuous residence in the United States for at least three months before filing the application. Finally, DACA recipients may be eligible for a fee waiver if they meet certain financial requirements.

15. How can I check the status of my DACA application?

The best way to check the status of your DACA application is to contact U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) directly. You can reach them by phone at 1-800-375-5283 or visit their website (https://www.uscis.gov/daca-status).

16. How often must I renew my DACA status?

You must renew your DACA status every two years.

17. Are there any special benefits for U.S. citizens that are not available to non-citizens?

Yes, there are certain special benefits for U.S. citizens that are not available to non-citizens. For example, U.S. citizens are eligible to vote in federal elections and can apply for certain federal jobs. Additionally, U.S. citizens can receive Social Security benefits and other government benefits, such as Medicare, that are not available to non-citizens. U.S. citizens can also qualify for certain financial aid and educational opportunities that are not available to non-citizens.

18. Is financial assistance available to DACA recipients?

Yes, institutional, private, and governmental financial assistance is available to DACA recipients. They may be eligible for scholarships, grants, loans, and work-study programs. Furthermore, DACA recipients may also apply for financial aid from the federal government through the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).

19. Can I obtain a driver’s license if I am a DACA recipient?

Yes, in most states, DACA recipients are eligible to obtain a driver’s license. However, there are certain state-specific rules and regulations that may apply, so it is best to check with your state’s Department of Motor Vehicles for more detailed information.

20. Does becoming a U.S citizen mean that I will have the right to vote in federal elections?

Yes, becoming a U.S. citizen means that you will have the right to vote in federal elections.