Who are Dreamers and what is DACA?

In the US, there are a large number of immigrant communities that have been integrated into the local social fabric throughout history, especially since the late 20th century when international traffic began to increase thanks to technology and globalization.

One of the most important and well-known communities in the country are the so-called Dreamers. This term refers to young immigrants who came to the US without legal documentation when they were minors. Hundreds of thousands of Dreamers have resided in North America for a considerable period of time and do not know or remember anything about their countries of origin.

Since Dreamers are essentially undocumented immigrants, there are not many alternatives available to them. However, since it was not entirely their decision to enter the country without prior authorization, there have been several administrations that have tried to create immigration programs and benefits for them.

For instance, in 2012, the Barack Obama administration implemented a program called DACA (Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals), an immigration benefit that offers protection from deportation to eligible Dreamers. Under DACA, young immigrants can legally reside in the country for two years with the possibility of extension, apply for employment permits and access other social benefits.

DACA is currently the only immigration program available to Dreamers. Therefore, being a temporary benefit, it is not a safe or long-lasting option for this immigrant community, which is absolutely indispensable to the national economy since most Dreamers are essential workers in all kinds of sectors.

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The Trump administration had to reinstate DACA

Former President Donald Trump, who led the White House from 2017 to early 2021, tried to eradicate DACA by all means possible, arguing that offering legal alternatives to undocumented foreigners would only increase irregular migration levels.

In June 2020, the US Supreme Court ruled in favor of Dreamers and rejected Trump’s request to remove DACA. However, since the Trump administration did not fully comply with this verdict, a lower court had to intervene again in this legal battle in December 2020 and ordered the reinstatement of DACA with its original parameters, those initially implemented by Obama.

Thousands of young immigrants still await approval of their DACA applications

In January 2021, the USCIS (US Citizenship and Immigration Services) approved the first DACA applications in years and, naturally, this was a great achievement for thousands of Dreamers, both for those already protected by this immigration benefit and for those who are eligible but were unable to submit their applications due to the Trump administration’s rules.

However, even though DACA is working normally, there are currently thousands of pending applications. Since the program was reopened by the USCIS, thanks to the lower court’s verdict, approximately 50,000 Dreamers have submitted their first DACA applications, but most are still awaiting a response to their requests.

According to a recent CBS News report, between January and March 2021, only 1.5% of DACA applications have been approved, that is, less than 800 Dreamers. This rhythm is undoubtedly generating concern among immigrant communities and several activist groups.

Follow the advice of experts during your immigration journey in the US!

We understand that starting an immigration process requires constant dedication and expert help. Our team is highly qualified to guide you through your immigration journey in the US, so please don’t hesitate to contact us for a FREE Phone Consultation with one of our expert immigration attorneys.

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