Deferred Action Status for Childhood Arrivals (DACA)

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).

The DHS is no longer considering initial applications for DACA.

Individuals who have not submitted an application by Sept. 5, 2017, for an initial request under DACA may no longer apply.

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.*

*On July 28, 2020, DHS announced its intention to:

• Reject all initial requests for DACA and associated applications for Employment Authorization Documents;
• Reject new and pending requests for advanced parole absent exceptional circumstances; and,
• Limit the period of renewed deferred action granted to one year pursuant to the DACA policy after the issuance of this memorandum.

Please stay tuned as these are developing matters.

Frequently Asked Questions on DACA

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 did not send your application to USCIS prior to Sept. 5, 2017, you cannot apply as an initial applicant at present.

Q: I would like to renew my existing work permit under Deferred Action status. Can I?

A: You may be eligible to submit a renewal application to USCIS which will be reviewed on an individual, case-by-case basis.

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.

If you believe that you or your loved one may qualify for immigration benefits as a result of the current Republican administration’s changes to President Barack Obama’s executive actions on Deferred Action Status for Childhood Arrivals, call us today for a free consultation.

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(512) 900-9999

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(210) 202-4000