Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) Renewal

Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals, or DACA, refers to the opportunity for people who came to the U.S. as children to defer removal action for a period of two years. Though deferred action is not lawful status, individuals are eligible for work authorization under DACA.  

The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) is not currently accepting new requests from individuals who have never been granted deferred action under DACA. However, if you were previously granted deferred action under DACA, you still may request a renewal of this grant.

Eligibility

DACA was initiated in 2012. Those who have been recipients of the grant had to meet certain eligibility requirements in order to request deferred action and still must renew the grant once the two-year period ends.

Below are some of the initial 2012 DACA requirements:

• You were under 31 years of age on June 15, 2012
• You came to the U.S. before turning 16 years old
• You have resided in the United States continuously since June 15, 2007
• You were physically present in the U.S. on June 15, 2012
• You were physically present in the country at the time of your request for deferred action
• You have obtained a GED certificate, you have completed high school, or you are currently in school

You may be eligible to request a DACA renewal if:

• You met the initial DACA requirements in 2012
• You have been a recipient of DACA at any time since it was initiated in 2012
• You did not leave the U.S. on or after August 15, 2012, without advance parole
• You have remained in the U.S. since submitting your most recent approved DACA request
• You have not been convicted of a felony, a significant misdemeanor, or three or more misdemeanors
• Are not a threat to public safety or national security

How to Apply for DACA Renewal

Three forms must be correctly completed, signed, and submitted, along with the appropriate fees, in order to be considered for DACA renewal. If the most recent versions of the forms are not used, your request will be denied.

These are the required forms:

1. Form I-821D, Consideration of Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals
2. Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization
3. Form I-765WS Worksheet

USCIS does not accept requests for advance parole from DACA recipients.

How We Can Help

The team at Youngblood & Associates is very familiar with the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals process. We know that the immigration system is complex and that changes have been made to DACA guidelines over time, and we will help you to navigate the process every step of the way. The Youngblood & Associates staff will assess your case to determine whether you are eligible to request a DACA renewal and will ensure that you are in compliance with all deadlines and form requirements. We will offer outstanding guidance and representation throughout the entire process of requesting DACA renewal.