Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) has provided many young immigrants the opportunity to live, work, and study in the United States without the constant fear of deportation. If you are one of the DACA recipients, making sure your status remains current is essential to maintaining your legal protection and opportunities. However, navigating the renewal process on your own can be complex and daunting. This is why working with an experienced immigration attorney can make all the difference in successfully renewing your DACA status.
Why Legal Assistance Is Crucial for Your DACA Renewal
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) recommends submitting your renewal application between 120 and 150 days before your current DACA expires. Although this timeframe helps ensure your application is processed without any lapse in your status, even minor errors or omissions in your application can lead to significant delays or denials. With an experienced immigration attorney by your side, you can avoid these pitfalls and ensure your application is thorough, accurate, and submitted on time.
Steps to Renew Your DACA with Professional Support
Gather Necessary Documents
To renew your status, you will need several key documents. These include:
- A copy of your current Employment Authorization Document (EAD)
- Previous DACA approval notices
- Two passport-sized photos
- Any new legal documents or information since your last application
While gathering these documents may seem straightforward, an attorney can help ensure that you have everything needed and that all documents are up to date and correctly prepared. This can streamline the process and prevent unnecessary delays.
Complete the Required Forms
Renewing your DACA requires completing three forms:
- Form I-821D, Consideration of Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals
- Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization
- Form I-765W, Worksheet explaining your economic need to work
Filling out these forms accurately is critical, as mistakes can lead to rejection or delays in your application. When working with an immigration attorney, they will carefully prepare and review your forms, ensure all information is correct, and provide guidance on any questions or concerns that may arise during this process.
Pay the Filing Fee
Once your forms are complete and reviewed, you must pay the renewal fee, which covers the processing of your applications and biometrics. If you are facing financial challenges, an attorney can advise you on possible fee exemptions, although these are granted under limited circumstances.
Submit Your Application
Once all documents have been gathered and all forms have been completed, reviewed and signed, the application must be sent to the appropriate USCIS lockbox facility.
An immigration attorney can help you assemble a complete, well-organized package, including a cover letter and any additional documentation, to ensure your application is handled efficiently.
Attend the Biometrics Appointment
After your application is received, USCIS will schedule a biometrics appointment, where your fingerprints, photograph, and signature will be taken.
Recent Updates on DACA
The 5th Circuit Court of Appeals will hear oral arguments on October 10, 2024, in a case that could end DACA. With over 850,000 beneficiaries since 2012, the act has faced ongoing legal challenges. The court’s ruling, which could come any time after the hearing, may lead to another Supreme Court battle if they rule against it.
On May 3, 2024, the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services posted a regulation that will make DACA recipients eligible to purchase health coverage and subsidies (depending on their income) on HealthCare.gov and state-run healthcare marketplaces established under the Affordable Care Act. The regulations go into effect November 1, 2024.
Currently, first-time DACA applications continue to be blocked and cannot be processed due to a court order by a federal judge in the Southern District of Texas. Despite this decision, the court maintained a partial stay, allowing all current DACA recipients who received their initial status before July 16, 2021, to retain their protection.
Given the ever-changing landscape of DACA regulations, staying informed and having professional legal guidance is more important than ever. When working with us at the Law Office of Christine Contreras, you can rest assured that you are receiving the most up-to-date advice and support to navigate your DACA renewal.
Contact Us for Expert Legal Assistance with DACA Renewal Applications
Renewing your DACA status is too important to leave to chance. If you have questions about your renewal or need help maintaining your legal protection, our team at the Law Office of Christine Contreras is here to assist you. Contact us today to schedule a consultation!