What Does DACA's End Mean for Us?

The DACA (Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals) plan is going to be ending. There was a lot of confusion about the plan within its lifetime, and there’s sure to be even more as it all comes to an end. During this time, dreamers, as well as their families, have to exercise caution.

DACA’s End Doesn’t Mean Automatic Deportation

Nearly 800,000 young folks who came into the country before they turned 16 were temporarily protected from deportation and given authorization to work within the U.S. These young individuals were referred to as Dreamers. But, just because the plan is ending doesn’t mean Dreamers are going to be subject to instant deportation. Dreamers ought to assess their options and requirements as soon as they can.

The AILA released an information sheet highlighting a few of the items Dreamers should know. Below are a few of the important details:

No further applications are going to be accepted. Applications that already have been submitted still will be processed.

Those whose DACA expires on Mar. 5, 2018, or before might apply for an extension. The application has to have been submitted by Oct. 5 of 2017.

Those whose DACA expires after Mar. 5, 2018, might not apply for a two-year extension. The ones qualified for an extension are requested to submit an application as soon they can. Dreamers who aren’t qualified ought to be aware that they might have other available options. Each circumstance is unique and immigration law is complicated; therefore, it’s worth working with a reputable immigration law firm to figure out the best method of remaining in the U.S. The ones threatened with deportation also should be aware that there might be options for defense.

What is the Issue With DACA?

While recipients technically aren’t documented, they have the ability to get driver’s licenses, obtain work permits, and enroll in college. They also must pay income tax through this plan. However, one main flaw in the plan is that it doesn’t provide viable ways for them to become legal residents or U.S. citizens.

Essentially, conservatives have a desire for tighter immigration regulations, and they see DACA as a problem source contributing therein. Most conservatives see DACA as amnesty rather than a right of immigrant kids.

What Will It Mean for Dreamers?

You currently are still getting DACA protection. The government honors and recognizes your work permit until its expiration date. All applications that were received by September 5th were still processed, and all people whose status expires by Mar. 5th, 2018, are going to have a month to apply for their two-year permit.

As lawmakers proposed bipartisan efforts that protect dreamers, bills stalled within Congress. If Congress doesn’t craft an alternative to maintaining DACA, 300,000 folks are going to risk deportation in the year 2018 and more by the year 2019.

What About My Data?

The DHS stated the DACA applicant’s information is going to only remain inside the department’s system. However, the department of United States Citizenship & Immigration Services stated they will give the data to ICE if there is a substantial national security or law enforcement interest.

What to Do Now

By March, if Congress gets to a DACA agreement, there are numerous rights you’ll still retain.

·       Keep in mind you may work until the expiration date of the permit.

·       You aren’t required to inform an employer that DACA ended, and you don’t have to inform them that you’re a program recipient.

·       As soon as possible, apply for a social security number while the work permit is valid. You’ll have the ability to use the SSN for housing, banking, educational and additional purposes. You have to have a valid work permit to utilize the SSN for employment.

If you are a dreamer and have concerns regarding your citizenship status or immigration status, call an attorney.