What is DACA?
DACA, or Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals, is an Obama-era program that allows certain individuals who meet certain criteria, to remain in the United States and receive a renewable two-year period of deferred action from deportation. DACA recipients are also eligible for work permits and, in some cases, travel abroad.
Who is Eligible for DACA?
In order to be eligible for DACA, a person must have been brought to the United States as a child and must have resided in the country continuously since June 15, 2007. They must also be currently enrolled in school, have graduated from high school or obtained a GED, or be an honorably discharged veteran of the Coast Guard or Armed Forces of the United States. In addition, they must not have been convicted of a felony, a significant misdemeanor, or three or more other misdemeanors, and must not pose a threat to national security or public safety.
Can DACA Recipients Travel to Hawaii?
Yes, DACA recipients are able to travel to Hawaii. However, it is important to note that the United States Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has stated that it does not endorse travel outside of the country for DACA recipients. Therefore, any travel outside of the United States should be done at the individual’s own risk.
What Documents Are Needed to Travel to Hawaii with DACA?
DACA recipients who plan to travel to Hawaii must have the following documents: a valid passport, a valid advance parole document, and a valid Employment Authorization Document (EAD). The advance parole document is required for DACA recipients who wish to travel outside of the United States and return. The EAD is required in order to be employed in Hawaii.
What Are the Risks of Traveling to Hawaii with DACA?
There are a few risks associated with traveling to Hawaii with DACA. First, as previously stated, travel abroad is not endorsed by the DHS. Therefore, if a DACA recipient is detained or deported upon returning to the United States, they could be subject to removal proceedings. Second, a DACA recipient’s travel documents could be revoked at any time. Finally, a DACA recipient who travels abroad could find themselves unable to return to the United States, even if they have a valid advance parole document.
How Long Can a DACA Recipient Stay in Hawaii?
A DACA recipient can stay in Hawaii for as long as their documents remain valid. The validity of the documents will depend on the type of document and the issuing agency. Generally speaking, a valid passport is good for up to ten years, while an advance parole document is valid for one year. An EAD is generally valid for two years.
What is the Process of Entering Hawaii with DACA?
A DACA recipient who wishes to enter Hawaii must first obtain a valid passport and the necessary travel documents. Once these documents have been obtained, the individual can apply for an entry visa to Hawaii. If approved, the individual can then board a flight to Hawaii and present their passport and documents at the port of entry.
Can a DACA Recipient Visit Other Islands in Hawaii?
Yes, a DACA recipient can visit other islands in Hawaii as long as they have the necessary documents and meet the requirements for entry into the islands they intend to visit.
Are There Any Other Restrictions on Traveling to Hawaii with DACA?
Yes, there are a few other restrictions on traveling to Hawaii with DACA. The first is that DACA recipients must have a valid passport and other travel documents in order to enter Hawaii. The second is that DACA recipients cannot enter Hawaii without a valid entry visa. Finally, DACA recipients cannot remain in Hawaii for more than the amount of time allowed by their documents.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can DACA recipients travel to Hawaii?
Yes, DACA recipients are able to travel to Hawaii. However, it is important to note that the United States Department of Homeland Security (DHS) does not endorse travel outside of the country for DACA recipients.What documents are needed to travel to Hawaii with DACA?
DACA recipients who plan to travel to Hawaii must have a valid passport, a valid advance parole document, and a valid Employment Authorization Document (EAD).What risks are associated with traveling to Hawaii with DACA?
The risks associated with traveling to Hawaii with DACA include potential detention or deportation upon returning to the United States, revocation of travel documents, and inability to return to the United States.How long can a DACA recipient stay in Hawaii?
A DACA recipient can stay in Hawaii for as long as their documents remain valid. Generally speaking, a valid passport is good for up to ten years, while an advance parole document is valid for one year, and an EAD is generally valid for two years.What is the process of entering Hawaii with DACA?
The process of entering Hawaii with DACA involves obtaining a valid passport and the necessary travel documents, applying for an entry visa to Hawaii, and presenting the passport and documents at the port of entry.Can a DACA recipient visit other islands in Hawaii?
Yes, a DACA recipient can visit other islands in Hawaii as long as they have the necessary documents and meet the requirements for entry into the islands they intend to visit.Are there any other restrictions on traveling to Hawaii with DACA?
Yes, other restrictions on traveling to Hawaii with DACA include not being able to enter Hawaii without a valid entry visa and not being able to remain in Hawaii for more than the amount of time allowed by their documents.Conclusion
DACA recipients are able to travel to Hawaii, although they must have a valid passport, advance parole document, and Employment Authorization Document (EAD). There are some risks associated with traveling to Hawaii with DACA, including potential detention or deportation upon returning to the United States, revocation of travel documents, and inability to return to the United States. Ultimately, DACA recipients must evaluate the risks and rewards before deciding to travel to Hawaii.