Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA)

Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) is a discretionary grant of relief by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). Although DACA does not provide legal status to undocumented immigrants, it does allow qualified people to defer removal action for a period of two years, subject to renewal. Individuals benefitting from DACA are often referred to as being DACAmented.

DACA Eligibility

To qualify for a deferred action, students must:

  • Be under 31 years of age as of June 15, 2012
  • Have come to the U.S. while under the age of 16
  • Have continuously resided in the U.S. from June 15, 2007 to the present. For purposes of calculating this five year period, brief and innocent absences from the United States for humanitarian reasons will not be included
  • Have entered the U.S. without inspection before June 15, 2012, or individuals whose lawful immigration status expired as of June 15, 2012
  • Have been physically present in the United States on June 15, 2012, and at the time of making the request for consideration of deferred action with USCIS
  • Be currently enrolled in school, have graduated from high school, have obtained a GED, or have been honorably discharged from the Coast Guard or armed forces
  • Have not been convicted of a felony offense, a significant misdemeanor, or more than three misdemeanors and do not pose a threat to national security or public safety

Applicants will have to provide documentary evidence of the above criteria. In addition, every applicant must complete and pass a biographic and biometric background check. For more information on DACA, visit the Department of Homeland Security.

Update 1/31/17

POSSIBLE REPEAL OF DACA: INFORMATION TO PREPARE 

In light of the policies being enacted by the new administration we are encouraging students to look at the following article from United We Dream. The content of the article has helpful tips to start preparing ahead of this possibility. 

Additionally, please look at the following Know Your Rights article in case you encounter immigration agents. 

Office of Diversity Engagement and Community Outreach

Lone Mountain 104
2130 Fulton St.
San Francisco, CA 94117

Telephone: (415) 422-2821
Email:diversity@usfca.edu