Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) is a federal immigration program begun in 2012 under President Obama.
DACA helps eligible undocumented immigrants who came to the United States as young people with temporary protection from deportation and access to work authorization.
On June 18th, 2024, the federal government announced additional protections for DACA recipients. This new process will allow DACA recipients and other undocumented individuals to transition into the H-1B work visa program. This program offers DACA recipients the chance to gain more permanent status and, in some cases, a pathway to citizenship.
To qualify, individuals must have:
- Earned a degree at an accredited U.S. institution of higher education in the United States and
- An offer of employment from a U.S. employer in a field related to their degree.
Those who qualify will be given a work permit for 3 years, during which they will be able to apply for lawful permanent residence.
You can learn more online and by phone.
Online
Learn more about DACA and how to find free legal service providers.
By Phone
- Agency: Mayor's Office of Immigrant Affairs
- Division: MOIA Immigration Legal Support Hotline
- Phone Number: (800) 354-0365
- Business Hours: Monday - Friday: 9 AM - 6 PM
- You'll hear an automated message that will ask for your language. During business hours, you'll then be connected to an agent.
