June 15, 2012 former Secretary Napolitano announced a special Deferred Action process for young people.  Deferred Action Childhood Arrival (DACA) was implemented for the following criteria:

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1. Is at least 15 years old at the time of filing for DACA;

2. Was under the age of 31 as of June 15, 2012. (The person must have had been born after June 15, 1981;

3. Came to the United States under the age of 16;

4. Had continuously resided in the United States since June 15, 2007;

5. Entered the United States without inspection before June 15, 2012, or had lawful immigration status that expired before June 15, 2012. 

6. Is currently in school has graduated from high school, has obtained a certificate of General Education Development (GED) certificate;

7. Has not been convicted of a felony offense, a significant misdemeanor offense, three or more non-significant misdemeanor offense, or does not otherwise pose a threat to national security or public safety.

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