Renewal Time for Granted DACA Applicants

Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) Renewals Are Beginning.

The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has announced that for those nearing the end of the period of their previous deferred action, it is time to resubmit documentation for consideration for the program, including the Application for Employment Authorization and the required filing fee (totaling $465).

If a previously filed deferred action expires before the renewal, the applicant will begin to accrue unlawful presence and will not have a work permit during the period between the expiration of the previous permit and the time the new permit arrives. 

Thus it is encouraged to reapply early. Each case is reviewed on a case-by-case basis by the government officer. If you have a criminal history or issues with your migration history, please contact an attorney. 

The basic requirements to be granted a renewal of your DACA are:

• Was under the age of 31 as of June 15, 2012;

• Came to the United States before reaching his or her 16^th birthday and established residence at that time;

• Has continuously resided in the United States since June 15, 2007, up to the present time;

• Did not depart the United States on or after August 15, 2012 without advance parole.

• Was present in the United States on June 15, 2012, and at the time of making his or her request;

• Entered without inspection before June 15, 2012, or his or her lawful immigration status expired as of June 15, 2012;

• Has graduated or obtained a certificate of completion from a high school, has obtained a general educational development certificate,  is an honorably discharged veteran of the Coast Guard or Armed Forces of the United States; or was in school at the time he or she requested DACA from ICE and: 1) has successfully completed an education, literacy, or career training program (including vocational training) and obtained employment,  2) is currently enrolled in high school, postsecondary school or a new/different education, literacy or career training program, or 3) has made substantial, measurable progress toward completing an education, literacy, or career training program and,

• Has not been convicted of a felony, significant misdemeanor, three or more other misdemeanors, and do not otherwise pose a threat to national security or public safety.