DACA is back in full and DHS is accepting first time applicants again. If you’re an undocumented youth (or not so young anymore) and don’t know if you qualify to receive this protection, we can help you figure it out using this DACA application checklist.
This DACA application checklist is only meant as a guide and not as the final word on your qualification as an applicant. Downloadable links to the checklist are available at the bottom of the page in English, Spanish, Chinese, Creole, Korean, Tagalog, and Vietnamese. We encourage you to fill it out and use it when you consult a trusted lawyer or legal representative who can help you decide whether to apply and review your application.
You may qualify for DACA if you check off all these requirements:
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Were under the age of 31 on June 15, 2012.
Are at least 15 years old at the time of submitting your request?
*Exception to the age requirement: if you are under 15 years old but find yourself in removal proceedings, have a final removal order, or have a voluntary departure order, and are not in immigration detention, you can apply for DACA.
Moved to the US before you turned 16 years old.
Have lived in the United States since before June 15, 2007 (continuously, without moving out of the country).
Were physically present in the United States on June 15, 2012.
Are physically present in the United States at the time of applying for DACA.
You were living undocumented on June 15, 2012 (no lawful status)
You are:
Have never, either as an adult or as a juvenile, had any significant contact with law enforcement, gone to jail, been to court, received a ticket or citation, spoken to a police officer, or otherwise had trouble with the law
Have never been found to be in a gang, or have you ever been accused of being associated with a gang by law enforcement.
Have never been accused of being involved in activity that threatens the United States (like terrorism or spying)
You will have to show proof of all your answers to these questions. You should consult a lawyer to help you figure out the most viable options for you, but here are some examples (this list is not exhaustive but only meant to help guide you):
To prove identity and age (including proof that you are under the age 31), provide the following:
To prove that (1) you arrived in the US before age 16, (2) have continuously resided in the US for 13 years (6/15/2007- present), and (3) evidence you were present on 6/15/2012; provide the following:
To prove you are currently in school OR GED program, OR earned a high school OR certificate of completion from high school, OR have a GED, OR have been honorably discharged from the military; provide the following:
If you have left the US since 6/15/2007, provide the following:
If you found this DACA application checklist helpful, join United We Dream to stay up to date and receive more resources delivered to your phone. To join, text DACAISBACK to 877-877 or attend one of our live DACA Application Preparation Sessions.
