by John Polivick, Esq.

August 15, 2013 marked the one year anniversary of DACA, formally known as Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals.

DACA does two things for those who are eligible:  it suspends any proceedings for removal (deportation), and it allows those individuals – known as the “Dreamers” – to  legally work in the U.S.

During the first year of DACA’s existence:

• More than half a million people have applied: 74% approved, 1% denied, the rest under review. More than half the estimated eligible immigrants have applied.
• 30% of applicants came to the US by age five, and 75% of applicants have lived in the US for more than 10 years.
• 75% of the applicants were born in Mexico, 10% in Central America, 7% in South America, 4% in Asia and 4% in the rest of the world.

If you are eligible to apply for DACA, or think you are, apply now, or contact an immigration attorney.