1. I’m a DACA recipient. Will the information I shared with the federal government be used to deport me?
The federal government has stated its current policy is that information provided in DACA requests is “protected from disclosure” to immigration enforcement agencies unless the individual meets the criteria for the issuance of a Notice To Appear or a referral to immigration enforcement authorities under the criteria set forth in the federal government’s Notice to Appear guidance (www.uscis.gov/NTA). Generally, such criteria address cases that involve public safety threats, criminal matters, and/or allegations of fraud.
2. When my DACA expires, will Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) immediately arrest me?
Unlikely. We do not expect ICE to arrest most people who lose DACA status. Most at risk are those with outstanding deportation orders or criminal records.
3. Can I get USCIS permission to travel abroad based on my DACA status?
Yes. USCIS is granting travel permission, called “advance parole,” to DACA recipients.
4. Can I get into another legal status?
For most people with DACA, the path to legal status is very limited. This is why it is important to consult with an attorney. Contact CUNY Citizenship Now!, CUNY’s free immigration law service program by calling 646-664-9400 or texting 929-334-3784. Please identify yourself as a CUNY student, faculty or staff. If you qualify to renew or reinstate DACA, CN! will help you complete your application and advise you of the availability of filing fee assistance.
5. If I lose DACA, will I still be able to go to college at CUNY?
Yes. The City University of New York is dedicated to providing a high quality, accessible education to all New Yorkers, regardless of residency status or citizenship.
6. I currently pay in-state tuition at CUNY. If I lose DACA will I be charged out-of-state tuition?
Even if DACA is terminated, most students will continue to pay in-state tuition. New York State provides in-state tuition to its non-citizen New York high school graduates without regard to immigration status.
7. I have DACA and a work permit. Is my work authorization still valid?
Your employment authorization card (work permit) is valid until expiration, unless it is individually terminated or revoked.
8. If I lose my DACA status but my employment authorization card (work permit) is valid until expiration, will my employer be able to pay me less than minimum wage? What if I get hurt on the job?
Non-citizens regardless of immigration category or work authorization are protected by labor standards laws such as those that provide for minimum wages and prevent unpaid wages and workman’s compensation.
9. If my DACA status expires, will my employer fire me?
At the point you lose your DACA status, you will no longer be authorized to work as an “employee” in the United States.
10. If my DACA authorization expires and I no longer am able to work as an employee, is there another way for me to earn money?
Regardless of the possible termination of DACA, if you are working as an independent contractor rather than as an employee, you may continue working. DACA beneficiaries may continue to use their SSNs to work as an independent contractor or start a business; both options do not require work authorization. Regardless of the possible termination of DACA, DACA beneficiaries may continue to use their SSN to work as an independent contractor or start a business; both options do not require work authorization (For more information)
11. I have DACA status and am covered by Medicaid. Will I lose my health insurance if I lose DACA?
No. Under New York State law, individuals with DACA status and those with rescinded DACA status, may be eligible for state-funded Medicaid. If your DACA status has been rescinded, contact NY State of Health at 1-855-355-5777, TTY: 1-800-662-1220.