DACA Renewal Checklist: Details to Know
DACA, short for Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals, is a U.S immigration policy that allows foreign nationals who came to the U.S. as minors to defer action from deportation – for two years. This program no longer accepts new applications. However, those who have been approved can apply for DACA renewal.
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Introduction
Upon arriving in the U.S., DACA recipients had to complete an initial application and renew their status every two years to remain in the country. They can attend school and are granted a work permit and the right to work legally in the U.S.
As of 2018, the USCIS (United States Citizenship and Immigration Services) is no longer accepting new applications for the DACA program. Those who have already been approved can continue to renew their status. Here’s everything you need to know about doing so.
DACA Renewal Eligibility Requirements
There are a few eligibility requirements that you need to meet before renewing your DACA. Remember that when submitting your documents, you must submit enough to prove that you meet the following criteria – in addition to your initial application eligibility. To meet the eligibility requirements, you must ensure that you:
- Have not left the U.S. on or after August 15, 2012, without receiving advance parole
- Lived continuously within the United States since your most recent DACA (whether application or renewal) was submitted and approved
- Have not committed a felony, a significant misdemeanor, or three or more misdemeanors
- Do not threaten the public safety of any U.S. citizens or the nation’s security.
When to Renew DACA
You should note that DACA is no longer accepting new applicants. Despite this, if you have previously been granted DACA, you can maintain your status, so it remains valid. You must do this every two years.
Because the process is so lengthy and involved, you want to start early. Waiting too long to get it going can put your protections in jeopardy. The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) suggest that you should complete DACA renewal forms at least 120 days before its current expiration date. Ideally, most attorneys recommend starting the process as early as a year before the expiration date.
Note: if you have a work permit or Employment Authorization Document (EAD), you should renew this simultaneously.
DACA Renewal Checklist
If you are eligible for renewal, then below you will find the steps you need to take. This process consists of completing, signing, and submitting a few forms to the USCIS. This checklist will help you ensure you have all the bases covered.
Step 1: Gather Previous DACA Documents
To renew your DACA status, you have to be able to provide proof that you had it in the first place, so it is always a good idea to know where these documents are. What’s more, you can use them to help you get started on the process.
Step 2: Download the Forms Needed for Application Renewal
You need to complete and submit a few forms to renew your application. These need to be new forms that are up-to-date and found on the USCIS website.
Focus on downloading the following forms:
Step 3: Complete the Documents Required for the Application Renewal
Go through the documents carefully to ensure you complete them correctly. This is when it helps to have your old application forms to look back on to ensure you’ve done them right.
Read the forms carefully and follow the instructions. Fill them out on the computer for the most clarity. Then print them out. Print the forms and handwrite your answers if you cannot do this. Just write as clearly as possible and use black ink only. You want to ensure that you have left no room for error.
Step 4: Write a DACA Renewal Cover Letter
While it is not mandatory, writing and submitting a cover letter with your DACA renewal application can aid USCIS agents in processing your application.
Here is what your cover letter should include:
- What are you trying to accomplish with your application (renewing DACA status)
- A list of everything included in the application package
Write neatly, or consider typing your cover letter. Always proofread the cover letter before sending it to confirm there are no errors.
Step 5: Purchase Your Money Order for the Renewal Fee
A money order of $495.00 is required with the renewal application. (Be sure to confirm this amount before sending so your application is completed on time.) The money order should be made payable to the “U.S. Department of Homeland Security.” Do not abbreviate it.
Step 6: Mailing Your Renewal Application
When you have completed all of your forms, cover letter, supporting documents, and money order, it is time to mail it. Keep everything together with a paperclip so it doesn’t get mixed up with other applications. Avoid stapling the documents together if at all possible.
We recommend you submit your application to the USCIS using a trackable service, such as USPS priority mail with tracking, FedEx, UPS, and the like. This will not only let you follow it on its journey, but it will give you comfort – and proof – that it made it to the correct facility.
Getting Help From an Attorney for DACA Renewal
As you can tell, the DACA renewal process can be long and tedious. And it can be too overwhelming to handle on your own. Because you want to ensure it is done promptly and correctly, it is wise to hire an attorney to handle the renewal.
Securing legal counsel allows you to relax and be confident that your future is in good hands. You have an experienced legal team on your side handling your DACA renewal.
Are you in search for a certified attorney to represent you?
Let us help you find one today!