DACA was put in place by former President Obama to stop some undocumented immigrants who came to the U.S. as children from being sent back to their home countries. DACA doesn’t give immigrants legal rights to live in the US or become citizens. What it provides is temporary protection from deportation. It lets eligible individuals apply for a work permit that can be extended (Employment Authorization Document or EAD). The US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) says that as of September 2024, there were about 538,000 active DACA recipients in the U.S.
According to DACA renewal lawyer Sanjay Sobti, the law became much less flexible in 2018 because of partisan political action. Only those already registered under DACA may renew their immigration status. If you need renewal of your DACA status or benefits, then an attorney proficient in DACA renewals and benefits can assist you. Unfortunately, the program is no longer accepting new applications.
DACA renewals may cause stress, but knowing what follows and properly preparing paperwork relieves them. Applying should be done properly, observing the deadlines, to ease the stress. You may have recourse in case you encounter delays. Let us now see what factors may be able to make the DACA renewal process simpler for you.
Table of Contents
Understanding DACA Renewal Eligibility
Eligibility requirements pertaining to your case must be thoroughly understood before initiating DACA renewal.
Any person under 31 years of age on June 15, 2012, who had continuously resided in the United States since entry younger than age 16, and who has no records of felony or significant misdemeanor, is eligible.
You should have completed your education or consider going for it and taking an active role in helping to better your community.
First-time DACA status should be presented so as to remain valid for renewal. Knowing these requirements gives you the confidence to undertake the process.
Gathering Required Documents for Renewal
The most critical step when applying for an extension of pending DACA is the collection of documents that will facilitate the application. Gather all evidence of identity, such as a birth certificate or passport.
You should demonstrate continuous presence in the U.S., so keep school records or letters of employment at hand. These may include supporting records or criminal records if they apply to you.
Have on hand your previous approval notice, as they will ask for it. Keep the documents neatly arranged for your convenience in future application processing.
Avoid waiting any longer by giving yourself enough time to assemble all the documents.
Completing the DACA Renewal Application
You can start the DACA renewal application once you have all the paperwork you need. You should start filling out Form I-821D correctly by giving information that is true to your current situation.
Attention to detail is needed. The smallest errors can result in delays. Review the information that goes into the personal data section to make your application accurate.
I-765 is attached to your employment authorization with adequate payment. If you have any doubts or questions, ask a friend or a legal counselor for help.
Keep in mind renewal is simply for the purpose of maintaining your right to stay legally in the country for a period of time. Try to keep your mind on the process and what it means for your entire future in America.
Important Deadlines and Submission Tips
It is important to know deadlines and the submission process to ease the renewal process.
Mark the calendar for these deadlines. Applications must be sent to USCIS 120 days before the current DACA expiration for renewal processing.
Track the delivery method to confirm that the application arrives safely. Keep duplicates of everything sent.
What to Do If Your Renewal Is Delayed
Doing the process correctly doesn’t guarantee that you will have no delays in the renewal process. If you experience delay, don’t panic. Go online and check your case’s status. If it is still pending, call USCIS for further details. Having your receipt number at hand will help them to speed up the process of retrieving your case.
If it is about to expire, collect any evidence showing that you have continued with DACA eligibility. Keep duplicates of everything sent. Staying organized and proactive will contribute to easing your stresses during this process while retaining your status and having a safe community.
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