The Demise of DACA: What Should You Do Now?

On September 5, 2017, Jefferson Beauregard Sessions (Attorney General of the United States) announced President Trump’s decision to end the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program. This program shielded hundreds of thousands of young immigrants from deportation. These young immigrants were brought to the United States as children by their parents or other relatives and have been continuously residing in the U.S. without lawful since childhood.

The demise of DACA will bring about some drastic changes that will affect tens of thousands of people across the U.S.

DACA Changes That Are Relevant to You

As of September 5, 2017, the Department of Homeland Security will not accept any new DACA applications. They will, however, honor the status of current DACA grantees until their status officially expires. Pending applications will be reviewed as normal and may be granted through the old processes as well.

Because this status only lasts for two years, however, those who are currently under DACA’s protection can expect problems when their DACA periods expire.  However, those whose DACA protection will expire between now and March 5, 2018 can still renew their DACA statuses if their applications are received on or before October 5, 2017.  As such, it is essential to act quickly if this potential exception may apply to you or a member of your family.

Concerns and Recommendations

There are some important provisions that are affected by DACA’s termination.  These include:

• If you currently have a work permit under DACA, you can continue to work until your permit expires. Your employer does not have the current right to take any adverse employment action toward you because of your future status change.
• Your Social Security Number is valid for life; apply for one before your DACA permit expires if you do not already have one.
• Avoid any travel outside of the U.S. if you are a DACA grantee.
• California drivers with DACA status should plan to transition to an AB 60 driver’s license by the time their DACA permits expire.
• Those with DACA status may continue to eligible for health care under Medi-Cal as individuals who have Permanent Residence Under the Color of Law (PRUCOL).

Even if your DACA status expires, you may be eligible for another immigration option to get a work permit or green card. These processes take time, so it is important to understand your options and to take action as soon as possible.

Get Legal Help Immediately

Because the change is so new, those who work in immigration law, including the team at Saleh & Associates, is still determining how the current administration’s actions will affect the immigrants that DACA protects. If you have concerns about your status and need legal help, please contact us immediately.