WHAT IS DEFERRED ACTION FOR PARENTAL ACCOUNTABILITY?
Over the years, the United States government has implemented various programs to defer action to remove certain aliens from the United States. The most prominent recent example is a program initiated to defer action against certain immigrants who arrived in the United States as children. In November 2014, the government announced a program called "Deferred Action for Parents of Americans and Lawful Permanent Residents", otherwise known as "DAPA". In today's blog, we'll review the requirements of this program and its progress toward implementation.
WHAT ARE THE REQUIREMENTS FOR DAPA ELIGIBLITY?
To be eligible for deferred action under the DAPA program, you must show: (1) that you have lived in the United States continuously from January 1, 2010 to present; (2) that you were physically present in the United States on November 20, 2014 and at the time of application; (3) that you had no lawful immigration status on November 20, 2014; (4) that you had, on November 20, 2014, a son or daughter, of any age or marital status, who is a U.S. citizen or lawful permament resident; (5) that you have not been convicted of a felony, significant misdemeanor, or three or more other misdemeanors; (6) that you do not pose a threat to national security and (7) that you are not an enforcement priority for removal.
WHEN CAN I APPLY FOR RELIEF UNDER THE DAPA PROGRAM?
The DAPA program announced in November 2014 was scheduled to become available effective February 18, 2015. However, on February 16, 2015, a federal court in Texas issued a temporary injunction that prohibits implementation of the DAPA program. The federal court lawsuit is still pending and is expected to take a significant amount of time to resolve. Until such time, the program is unavailable, because the court order prohibits USCIS from accepting applications.
If you're considering applying for any type of immigration benefit, you should contact an experienced immigration attorney for guidance and assistance. Christiansen Law Firm partners with individuals to secure favorable outcomes in immigration matters. The immigration attorneys at Christiansen Law Firm have extensive experience in immigration matters and can ensure that you are properly advised of your legal rights. Contact the attorneys at Christiansen Law Firm in Houston or San Antonio to schedule a free consultation.