DACA, or Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals, is a program that allows certain undocumented immigrants who entered the US as children to receive a renewable two-year period of deferred action from deportation. DACA also enables these individuals to obtain a work permit and apply for certain benefits such as a driver's license or a social security number. Currently, the DACA program is in limbo as the future of the program is uncertain under the current administration.
Many DACA recipients are curious to know if they are able to travel to Hawaii under the program. The answer is that it is possible for DACA recipients to travel to the state of Hawaii, however, there are certain restrictions that must be taken into consideration before planning a trip.
Travel Requirements for DACA Recipients
DACA recipients are allowed to travel within the US as long as they meet certain criteria. First, the DACA recipient must be able to show proof of their DACA status. This can be done by presenting a valid Employment Authorization Document (EAD). Second, the DACA recipient must have advanced parole from U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). Advanced parole is an authorization from USCIS that allows a DACA recipient to travel outside the US for a specific purpose and then return to the US. In order for a DACA recipient to travel to Hawaii, they must obtain advanced parole from USCIS.
It is important to note that advanced parole is not automatically granted to DACA recipients. A DACA recipient must submit an application to USCIS and must provide detailed information about the purpose of their travel. Generally, USCIS will only grant advanced parole if the DACA recipient can demonstrate a “compelling humanitarian reason” or a “significant public benefit” for their travel.
Once a DACA recipient has obtained advanced parole, they must also obtain a valid passport or other travel document that is accepted by the US government. The passport or travel document must be valid for the entire duration of the trip. It is also important to note that travel documents for DACA recipients may only be used for travel to the US and not for travel to any other countries. Finally, DACA recipients should make sure to have a valid return ticket when traveling to Hawaii.
Risks of Traveling to Hawaii
While traveling to Hawaii is possible for DACA recipients, it is important to be aware of the risks associated with such a trip. If a DACA recipient is stopped by immigration authorities while traveling to Hawaii, it is possible that they may be detained and/or deported. It is also important to note that leaving the US for any length of time may have an impact on their DACA status and could put them at risk for losing their authorization. Therefore, it is important for DACA recipients to consult with an immigration attorney before taking any trips outside the US.
Conclusion
DACA recipients are allowed to travel to Hawaii, however, it is important for them to meet certain requirements and to be aware of the risks associated with such a trip. DACA recipients must obtain advanced parole from USCIS and must have a valid passport or other travel document accepted by the US government. It is also important for DACA recipients to understand the risks associated with leaving the US, as it could potentially lead to their detention and/or deportation. Therefore, it is important for DACA recipients to consult with an immigration attorney before taking any trips outside the US.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can DACA recipients travel to Hawaii?
Yes, DACA recipients can travel to Hawaii; however, they must meet certain requirements and be aware of the risks associated with such a trip.
What documents are needed to travel to Hawaii?
In order to travel to Hawaii, DACA recipients must obtain advanced parole from USCIS and must have a valid passport or other travel document accepted by the US government.
Are there risks associated with traveling to Hawaii for DACA recipients?
Yes, there are risks associated with traveling to Hawaii for DACA recipients. Leaving the US for any length of time may have an impact on their DACA status and could put them at risk for losing their authorization. Therefore, it is important for DACA recipients to consult with an immigration attorney before taking any trips outside the US.
Can DACA recipients travel to other countries?
No, DACA recipients may not travel to other countries with their travel documents. Their travel documents may only be used for travel to the US.
Can DACA recipients get a passport?
Yes, DACA recipients can obtain a passport or other travel document accepted by the US government in order to travel to Hawaii.
Can DACA recipients stay in Hawaii for an extended period of time?
No, DACA recipients may not stay in Hawaii for an extended period of time. They must return to the US within the time period designated on their travel documents.
What happens if a DACA recipient is detained while traveling to Hawaii?
If a DACA recipient is detained while traveling to Hawaii, it is possible that they may be deported. Therefore, it is important for DACA recipients to consult with an immigration attorney before taking any trips outside the US.
Can a DACA recipient drive in Hawaii?
Yes, DACA recipients can drive in Hawaii as long as they have a valid driver's license.
Are there any restrictions on what a DACA recipient can do in Hawaii?
Yes, there are certain restrictions on what a DACA recipient can do in Hawaii. For example, a DACA recipient may not stay in Hawaii for an extended period of time or travel to other countries with their travel documents.
Can a DACA recipient work in Hawaii?
Yes, DACA recipients are allowed to work in Hawaii as long as they have a valid Employment Authorization Document (EAD).