Steps to Apply for DACA for the First Time
- Understand Your Eligibility for DACA. It’s important to learn as much as you can about DACA to figure out whether it makes sense for you to apply.
- Get Legal Advice. We recommend you consult with an immigration attorney or a Department of Justice accredited representative before you decide whether to apply.
- Gather Your Application Documents. ...
Full Answer
What documents will I need to apply for DACA?
LIST OF DOCUMENTS NEEDED FOR “DACA” FILING Please return the above signed forms along with the following to our office as soon as possible: Two (2) passport photographs for you; Two checks in the form of a check or money order in the amount of $380.00 and 85.00, payable to U.S. CITIZENSHIP AND IMMIGRATION SERVICES, to cover
Can I apply for DACA, and how?
You can apply for DACA for the first time if you meet the following requirements: You were under the age of 31 on June 15, 2012 (born after June 15, 1981). You are currently 15 years old or older, or are under 15 but in removal proceedings. You started living in the US before your 16th birthday.
What are the eligibility requirements for DACA?
to be eligible for daca, applicants must meet several eligibility requirements such as: have entered the united states before their 16th birthday, be currently in school, a high school graduate or be honorably discharged from the military, be under 31 years of age, and not have been convicted of a felony, significant misdemeanor, or otherwise …
Can you still apply for DACA?
Can I still apply for DACA? Only people who already have immigration relief can apply for DACA, whether it is current or expired. Until the United States Supreme Court decides its legality, no new requests can be made.
Can you still apply for DACA 2020?
Consistent with this order (PDF, 401.59 KB), DHS will continue to accept the filing of both initial and renewal DACA requests, as well as accompanying requests for employment authorization.
How do I qualify for DACA?
To be eligible you must:Have been under the age of 31 as of June 15, 2012.Have entered the U.S. before you turned 16 years old.Have continuously resided in the U.S. since June 15, 2007 up to the present time.Have been physically present in the U.S. on June 15, 2012 and at the time you are applying for DACA.More items...
Can you currently apply for DACA?
While the court order does not allow USCIS to approve initial DACA requests, we are presently able to continue processing DACA renewals and associated applications because the court temporarily stayed its injunction as to these requests. Moreover, USCIS will continue accepting initial DACA requests.
Is DACA open for new applicants 2021?
July 2021: Initial DACA Applications Halted More than 80,000 pending initial applications were stopped, and USCIS also announced that while they will be still accepting applications, no initial requests would be processed until further notice.
How much does DACA cost?
$495$495. This fee includes employment authorization and biometric services and cannot be waived. Use our Fee Calculator to help determine your fee.
Can a 30 year old apply for DACA?
It only is a temporary measure. Who is eligible for DACA? The main eligibility criteria for DACA are: You must be 15-30 years old to apply.
Is DACA still in effect 2022?
As of now, there are no changes in the DACA program since July of 2021, except USCIS's announcement in April 2022 that DACA renewals may be filed electronically.
How long does it take to get DACA approved?
5 months to 11 monthsWhen you apply for the first time to consider for DACA status, it can take anywhere from 5 months to 11 months depending on the Service Center that is processing your application.
Are DACA applications being accepted 2022?
The proposed DACA rule will also require a new Form I-765 Application for Employment Authorization Document. This form was submitted for final approval by DHS to the Office of Information and Regulatory Affairs, or OIRA on January 7, 2022, so it does appear that we are getting close.
What documents do you need for DACA?
To submit a new DACA application and get work authorization, you must file these three forms:Form I-821D, Consideration of Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals.Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization.Form I-765WS.
How long does DACA take to process 2021?
7 to 10 monthsForm I-821D Processing Time Summary USCIS has a stated goal to processing DACA applications within 120 days, but this is far from reality. After filing your DACA application package, your I-821D processing time can take anywhere from 7 to 10 months.
Why is DACA 2021 taking so long?
Certain factors, such as new arrests or criminal convictions, will likely lead to a longer renewal request processing time. If you have been arrested or convicted since the last time you renewed your DACA, you should speak with an immigration legal expert before filing a renewal request.
What Is DACA
On June 15, 2012, the secretary of Homeland Security announced that certain people who came to the United States as children and meet several guidelines may request consideration of deferred action for a period of two years, subject to renewal. They are also eligible for work authorization.
Request DACA for the First Time
The following information explains the guidelines for requesting DACA for the first time. If you need further information and cannot find it in our Frequently Asked Questions, you can call the USCIS Contact Center at 800-375-5283. For people who are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech disability: TTY 800-767-1833.
Filing Process for DACA
If you meet the guidelines for DACA, you will need to complete the following steps to make your request to USCIS.
Fee Exemptions
There are very limited fee exemptions available. Your request for a fee exemption must be filed and favorably adjudicated before you file your DACA request without a fee. In order to be considered for a fee exemption, you must submit a letter and supporting documentation to USCIS demonstrating that you meet one of the following conditions:
Travel Information
Certain travel outside the United States may affect the continuous residence guideline. Traveling outside the U.S. before Aug. 15, 2012, will not interrupt your continuous residence if the travel was brief, casual, and innocent. If you travel outside the United States on or after Aug.
Combatting Fraud
USCIS is committed to safeguarding the integrity of the immigration process. If you knowingly and willfully provide materially false information on Form I-821D, you will be committing a federal felony punishable by a fine, or imprisonment up to five years, or both, under 18 U.S.C. Section 1001.
What is DACA and its purpose?
President Barack Obama began Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) in 2012 under an executive order. DACA protects over 700,000 young people, also known as “Dreamers,” from deportation. Dreamers are those who entered the United States as children without lawful status. The program doesn’t give Dreamers legal status.
Who qualifies for DACA?
You are eligible for Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) if:
How to apply for DACA
If you’re eligible, you can begin your DACA application. You’ll need to sign and submit three forms for your new or renewal application:
How to renew your DACA status
Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) status is valid for two years, after which you must apply to renew it. U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) recommends renewing your status 120-150 days before its expiration date. You can renew your DACA status if:
Conclusion
Applying for Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) can be complicated, but working with a good immigration attorney can make it easier. If you can't afford the attorney fees and don't want to handle your DACA case alone, we may be able to help.
Who to consult before applying for DACA?
We recommend you consult with an immigration attorney or a Department of Justice accredited representative before you decide whether to apply. They can help you weigh the benefits and risks of applying for DACA.
How much does it cost to apply for DACA?
The total application fee for DACA is $495. Due to USCIS’ uncertain withdrawal time, money orders and cashier’s checks are recommended, but personal checks are accepted. Checks must be made payable to “U.S. Department of Homeland Security.” Do not abbreviate. Cash is not accepted.
What is the DACA program?
DACA gives eligible undocumented immigrants: temporary deportation protection. and a work permit that allows them to get a social security number. Like other important policy changes, the DACA program was not a result of an overnight decision.
How long does it take to get a DACA receipt?
Within four (4) months of getting your DACA receipt, you should get an appointment notice to visit an Application Support Center (ASC) to have your biometrics taken. Make sure to bring a valid government-issued photo ID (e.g. your passport) to your appointment.
What is the DACA?
Overview. Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (“DACA”), an executive order issued on June 15, 2012 by President Obama, protects eligible immigrant youth who came to the United States as children. DACA gives eligible undocumented immigrants: temporary deportation protection.
How to renew a DACA?
If you are renewing your DACA, check out Steps to Renew DACA. 1. Understand Your Eligibility for DACA. It’s important to learn as much as you can about DACA to figure out whether it makes sense for you to apply. First, you’ll want to confirm that you’re eligible for DACA.
Is DACA a temporary solution?
DACA is a temporary solution that is a crucial first step in the right direction, but because it is not a lawful status and could be changed or terminated at any time, we encourage individuals to get involved in advocating for the passage of a permanent solution.
How long is the DACA extension?
USCIS will take appropriate steps to provide evidence of the one-year extensions of deferred action and Employment Authorization Documents under DACA to individuals who were issued documentation on or after July 28, 2020, with a one-year validity period under the defunct policy.
When will the USCIS renew DACA?
Renew Your DACA. Important information about DACA requests: In compliance with an order of a United States District Court, effective Dec. 7, 2020, USCIS is: Accepting first-time requests for consideration of deferred action under Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) based on the terms of the DACA policy in effect prior to Sept.
Can you renew your DACA if you have been convicted of a felony?
Please note, if you file after your most recent DACA period expired, but within one year of its expiration, you may submit a request to renew your DACA.
Can USCIS deny a DACA renewal?
USCIS may request additional documents or statements to verify information provided in support of requests for renewal of DACA. We may contact other government agencies, education institutions, employers, or other entities in order to verify information. USCIS may deny your renewal request if you do not respond to a Request for Evidence in ...
When will the DACA be extended?
Accepting applications for advance parole documents based on the terms of the DACA policy prior to September 5, 2017 , and in accordance with the Court’s December 4, 2020, order; Extending one-year grants of deferred action under DACA to two years; and.
When is deferred action for children?
Update: Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals. In compliance with an order of a United States District Court, effective December 7, 2020, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) is: Accepting first-time requests for consideration of deferred action under Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals ...
Does DHS comply with the order?
DHS will comply with the order while it remains in effect , but DHS may seek relief from the order. Use this form to request that we consider granting or renewing deferred action on a case-by-case basis using guidelines described in the Secretary of Homeland Security's memorandum issued June 15, 2012.
Summary
Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) allows eligible immigrant youth to get 2-year renewable work permits and protection from removal proceedings. DACA has faced many legal challenges over the past five years. First, the Trump Administration tried to end the program and a U.S. Supreme Court decision prevented them from doing that.
Can I renew my DACA status?
You are eligible to renew your Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) grant and employment authorization if all of the following are true:
How to renew your DACA and Work Permit (A step-by-step guide)
Once you confirm that you qualify to renew your Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) grant, you can begin working on the renewal process. ImmigrationHelp.org will walk you through each step of the process for free if you are eligible for our service.
What is the DACA renewal timeline?
A typical Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) renewal takes 6-12 months. During that time, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) will send a variety of notices about your application to the mailing address that you provided on your paperwork.
When should I renew my DACA?
Your renewed Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) status and employment authorization will expire two years after USCIS approves your renewal request. This means that you may lose a bit of time on your new status if you apply more than 120 days before your current DACA expires.
How much does it cost to renew DACA?
When you submit your Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) renewal package, you will have to pay two fees for a total of $495:
How can I get help paying for my DACA renewal?
Many Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) recipients have a hard time affording their DACA grant renewal. Every DACA renewal applicant needs to pay USCIS fees, and if you get a lawyer’s assistance with your case, you’ll have to pay them in addition. Here are some tips for how to raise the money for both lawyer fees and USCIS fees.
How much is the MAF DACA loan?
MAF’s DACA Fee Assistance is a $247.50 loan with a matching $247.50 grant that covers the $495 filing fee to apply for DACA. If approved, you will receive a $495 check made out to the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. Half of the funds ($247.50) is a grant and does not need to be repaid.
Is the DACA fee assistance program fully restored?
DACA Fee Assistance Program. After years of repeated attacks, DACA is now fully restored! Today and every day, MAF stands in solidarity with all of the young immigrants who call America home.
Why can't DACA recipients apply for citizenship?
Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) recipients have access to important benefits such as employment authorization and protection from deportation. DACA recipients can submit DACA renewals every two years to keep their work authorization (work permit) and the ability to remain in the country.
How can DACA recipients become permanent residents?
Some Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) recipients may be able to apply for permanent resident legal status.
Conclusion
Becoming a U.S. citizen as a DACA recipient is complicated, but working with a good immigration attorney can make it easier. If you can't afford the attorney fees and don't want to handle your permanent resident or naturalization case alone, our non-profit may be able to help.