Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) is a program that protects and provides work authorization to immigrants brought to the US as children. Over 570,000 Dreamers are currently protected by DACA and are productive members of the American economy. However, the program is in legal limbo as Congress has failed to authorize permanent protection, and Republican states are suing to terminate it. Canada is actively recruiting immigrants with US work experience or education and could also attract DACA recipients, highly educated and qualified workers. Canada’s Express Entry system could be a viable option for Dreamers, who would be competitive candidates. If Canada poaches Dreamers, the US will face significant economic losses as Canada reaps the benefits of highly productive US-trained immigrants.
