DACA: 5 Key Things To Know

Below are 5 things the community should know about Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) as we wait for a decision on the pending DACA case:

1. DACA RENEWALS CONTINUE TO BE ACCEPTED AND PROCESSED AND DACA RECIPIENTS SHOULD CONTINUE TO RENEW THEIR CASES!
   • When should you renew?
     • If your DACA expires in less than 6 months from now, you should renew now. 
     • If your DACA expires within 6 months to 1 year, you may want to renew early.
     • If your DACA expires more than 1 year from today, you should speak to a trusted legal service provider to see if there are benefits in applying early
     • NOTE: INITIAL DACA REQUESTS ARE CURRENTLY NOT BEING GRANTED. THIS INCLUDES DACA REQUESTS FROM PEOPLE WHO HAVE NEVER HAD DACA AND DACA REQUESTS FROM PEOPLE WHOSE DACA EXPIRED MORE THAN A YEAR AGO.
2. DACA RENEWAL FEES INCREASED, SO MAKE SURE YOU INCLUDE THE RIGHT AMOUNT WHEN YOU FILE!
   • There are now two fees depending on how you file! If you file online at uscis.gov, the fee is $555. If you file via paper/mail, the fee is $605.
   • Note that two checks are required if you file via paper/mail: $85 for the DACA application (I-821D) and $520 for the work permit application (I-765).
3. DACA RECIPIENTS CAN APPLY FOR ADVANCED PAROLE AND CONTINUE TO TRAVEL!
   • DACA holders can apply for a travel permit called Advance Parole to travel abroad. To qualify for Advance Parole, DACA recipients must show that their reason for travel is related to humanitarian, employment, or education reasons. The fee for Advance Parole has increased to $630. Speak with a legal service provider about this opportunity.
4. DACA RECIPIENTS SHOULD GET SCREENED FOR OTHER IMMIGRATION OPTIONS!
   • It is possible that you may qualify for another immigration benefit that could lead to permanent residence and not know it. Visit https://ilrc.me/findhelp to find a free or low-cost trusted legal services provider in your area.
5. DACA CONTINUES TO BE UNDER ATTACK AND A DECISION ON THE DACA LAWSUIT IS EXPECTED IN 2024.
   • DACA is still being challenged in the Courts and a pending case before the 5th Circuit Court of Appeals will impact the future of DACA. It is important to stay informed on what is decided since the case will determine if the DACA program continues or not. Visit https://www.ilrc.org/daca to get updated information on DACA’s status.