In the realm of US immigration, there are various options available for certain individuals to travel outside of the country and reenter with legal permission. One such option is DACA Advance Parole, which allows eligible individuals, who are recipients of Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA), to travel internationally for specific reasons. In this blog post, we will explore the concept of DACA Advance Parole, its benefits, potential risks, and its impact on immigration status
Understanding DACA Advance Parole:
DACA Advance Parole is a government document that grants individuals with DACA status permission to travel outside the United States and return upon presenting themselves at the border. It serves as a legal entry, particularly for individuals who initially entered the country without a visa or lawful means.
Reasons for Seeking DACA Advance Parole:
There are three main reasons individuals can request DACA Advance Parole:
- School or Educational Purposes: If a DACA recipient needs to attend a study program abroad, they can apply for Advance Parole to travel for educational purposes.
- Work-Related Reasons: A DACA recipient may request Advance Parole if their job requires them to attend conferences or events outside of the country.
- Humanitarian Reasons: In situations where there is an urgent or critical need to travel due to a family member’s illness or a major life event, individuals with DACA may seek Advance Parole to be by the side of their loved ones during such times.
Benefits of DACA Advance Parole:
If a DACA recipient entered the United States unlawfully, traveling on Advance Parole can have significant benefits for their immigration status. It allows them to have a lawful entry into the country, similar to having a valid visa. This fact becomes particularly valuable if the individual intends to adjust their immigration status in the future through marriage to a US citizen or employment-based sponsorship.
Potential Risks and Considerations:
While the prospect of travel with DACA Advance Parole can be enticing, it is important to consider the associated risks. Though rare, there is a small chance of not being permitted reentry into the United States. It is crucial to have a clean legal and immigration history, with no criminal convictions or deportation records. Consulting with an experienced immigration attorney can help assess the individual’s case and weigh the potential risks against the potential benefits.
ConCLUSION:
DACA Advance Parole provides a unique opportunity for DACA recipients to travel internationally while maintaining their lawful status in the United States. It is crucial to understand the risks and benefits associated with traveling on Advance Parole and to seek professional guidance if uncertain. By making an informed decision, individuals can potentially enhance their future immigration prospects, particularly if they initially entered the country without a visa or lawful means.