On September 5, 2017, the current Republican administration ordered the Department of Homeland Security to initiate the orderly phase out of the program known as Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA).
DHS will provide a limited, six-month window during which it will consider renewal of DACA applications, under specific parameters. The DHS is not considering initial applications.
As all DACA-based benefits are provided on a two-year basis, individuals who currently have DACA will be allowed to retain both DACA and their work authorizations until they expire.
USCIS will adjudicate, on an individual basis properly filed pending DACA initial requests that have been accepted on or before Sept. 5, 2017. USCIS will also adjudicate properly filed pending renewal requests and associated applications for EADs from current beneficiaries who have been accepted as of Sept. 5, 2017, and from current beneficiaries whose benefits will expire between Sept. 5, 2017 and March 5, 2018.
Individuals who have not submitted an application by Sept. 5, 2017, for an initial request under DACA may no longer apply.
Q: I never applied for Deferred Action status, but I would like to now. Can I?
A: Unfortunately, if you have never before applied for benefits under Deferred Action status and had not sent your application to USCIS prior to Sept. 5, 2017, you cannot apply at present.
Q: I would like to renew my existing work permit under Deferred Action status. Can I?
A: You can submit a renewal application to USCIS before Oct. 5, 2017, if your employment authorization expires on or before March 5, 2018.
Q: My employment authorization card expires after March 5, 2018. Can I submit a renewal?
A: No. At this time you are unable to submit a renewal if your card expires after March 5, 2018.
Q: If my work permit lapses and I cannot renew it, what else can I do?
A: Talk to an immigration attorney to see if other benefits exist under the law for which you may be eligible.
Q: What resources will keep me up-to-date on the latest in DACA news?
A: USCIS.gov is a great resource for those looking for recent updates on Deferred Action and other immigration programs currently in effect. You can also find other resources right here.
Austin:
(512) 900-9999
San Antonio:
(210) 202-4000
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