Introduction
Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) is a program created by the Obama administration in 2012 that allows certain undocumented immigrants who entered the U.S. as minors to receive deferral from deportation and work authorization. As of 2019, it is estimated that nearly 800,000 individuals are enrolled in the program.
Puerto Rico, an unincorporated territory of the United States, has its own immigration policies which can be confusing for those unfamiliar with them. This article will explore the impact of these policies on DACA recipients traveling to Puerto Rico.
Impact of DACA on Puerto Rico Travel
Examining DACA Recipients’ Right to Visit Puerto Rico
As Puerto Rico is part of the United States, DACA recipients are allowed to travel to the island without obtaining a visa. However, they must comply with certain requirements upon arrival. According to the Department of Homeland Security, DACA recipients must present a valid government-issued photo identification, such as a driver’s license or passport, as well as proof of their DACA status, such as an Employment Authorization Document (EAD). They may also be required to show evidence of their ties to the United States, such as a birth certificate or school transcripts.
It is important to note that Puerto Rico has its own laws and regulations regarding immigration. The Department of Homeland Security states that “if you are not a U.S. citizen, you must comply with all Puerto Rican laws, including those related to immigration.” Therefore, DACA recipients should familiarize themselves with the island’s immigration policies before traveling there.
Exploring the Experiences of DACA Recipients Visiting Puerto Rico
Despite the fact that DACA recipients are allowed to travel to Puerto Rico, many have reported having difficulty in doing so. A 2018 survey conducted by the Center for American Progress found that nearly one-third of DACA recipients who had attempted to travel to the island were denied boarding. Furthermore, more than half reported being asked additional questions at the airport, such as why they were traveling, how long they would be staying, and what their purpose was in visiting the island.
In addition to facing difficulties when attempting to travel to Puerto Rico, DACA recipients have reported facing discrimination and harassment while on the island. A 2017 study by the University of Michigan Law School found that DACA recipients often face language barriers, lack of access to resources, and cultural misunderstandings while visiting Puerto Rico. Furthermore, the study found that many DACA recipients are subject to discriminatory treatment by local law enforcement officers, including racial profiling and detention.
Comparing DACA Recipients’ Travel Rights to Other Immigrants
Analyzing Puerto Rico’s Immigration Policies in Relation to DACA
While Puerto Rico does not have its own immigration system, the island’s immigration policies are largely based on federal immigration law. As a result, DACA recipients are treated similarly to other non-citizens who wish to visit the island. For example, non-citizens who wish to visit Puerto Rico must obtain a visa if they are from a country that requires one. Similarly, DACA recipients must also obtain a visa if they are from a country that requires one.
However, there are some differences between the rights of DACA recipients and other non-citizens who wish to visit Puerto Rico. For example, other non-citizens may be eligible for a waiver of the visa requirement if they meet certain criteria. DACA recipients, on the other hand, are not eligible for this waiver.
Investigating the Challenges Faced by DACA Recipients Traveling to Puerto Rico
In addition to the restrictions on travel, DACA recipients also face other challenges when attempting to visit Puerto Rico. For example, many airlines require passengers to have a valid passport or other form of government-issued identification in order to board a flight. As DACA recipients do not have legal status in the United States, they are often unable to obtain a passport or other form of government-issued identification.
Furthermore, DACA recipients may be subject to additional scrutiny by Customs and Border Protection agents due to their lack of legal status. This can lead to lengthy delays and increased intimidation. Additionally, DACA recipients may be denied entry into Puerto Rico if they do not have the proper documentation or if they are deemed to be a security risk.
Conclusion
Summary of Findings
This article explored the impact of immigration policies on DACA recipients traveling to Puerto Rico. It examined their right to visit Puerto Rico, compared their travel rights to other immigrants, and investigated the challenges faced by DACA recipients traveling to the island. It was found that DACA recipients are allowed to travel to Puerto Rico but must comply with certain requirements upon arrival. Furthermore, many have reported facing difficulties when attempting to travel to the island, as well as discrimination and harassment while visiting.
Recommendations for Improving Travel Rights for DACA Recipients
In order to improve travel rights for DACA recipients, the following steps should be taken: First, the federal government should provide guidance to airlines and other transportation companies on how to treat DACA recipients. Second, the government should issue a statement clarifying the rights of DACA recipients to travel to Puerto Rico. Finally, the government should ensure that all Puerto Rican immigration officials are properly trained in the rights of DACA recipients.
In conclusion, this article has shown that DACA recipients have the right to travel to Puerto Rico, but face various obstacles in doing so. It is important to understand the implications of Puerto Rico’s immigration policies on DACA recipients and take steps to ensure that their rights are respected and protected.
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