Immigration Attorneys Handling Deferred Action For Childhood Arrivals Renewals
Last updated on August 9, 2024
A lot of complications and controversy have surrounded the Deferred Action For Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program in the last several years. If you need to renew your DACA immigration status, then our experienced immigration attorneys at the Canizares Law Group, LLC, in Miami can help. They have helped hundreds of clients in the last decade.
Your American dream begins here — call 305-686-3187 now or send us a message for your consultation.
What Is DACA Immigration Status?
Originally established in June 2012, the DACA program functioned as deportation defense and relief that protected immigrants who were brought to the United States as children. DACA is an immigration status that protects undocumented immigrants from deportation because that immigrant came to the United States as a child. Under DACA status, immigrants are also eligible for a work permit. Immigrant status under DACA must be renewed every two years.
Who Is Eligible For DACA?
The United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) is no longer accepting new DACA applications for first-time applicants. To be eligible for DACA status, the applicant must have met the following criteria:
- Be under the age of 31 on June 15, 2012
- Immigrated to the United States before they were 16 years old
- Prove that they resided continuously in the United States since June 15, 2007, to the present
However, if you already have DACA status but need to renew it, then the USCIS will accept your application. It will also accept it if you previously had DACA status that was terminated, but you still meet the DACA qualifications.
Common Challenges In DACA Renewals
Renewing your DACA status is often more stressful than many realize until they begin the renewal process. Concerns about the future of the DACA program, coupled with unexpected fears and emotions, can be overwhelming.
Understanding the challenges that could arise in DACA renewals can help you prepare and feel more confident about the process.
- Legal and policy uncertainty: The status of the DACA program is often in flux, leading to uncertainty about its future. Court rulings and changes in administration can impact the renewal process – not to mention the DACA program’s stability, making it difficult for recipients to plan a future and feel secure in their status.
- Documentation obstacles: Gathering the necessary documents for renewal can be another hurdle. DACA recipients often struggle to secure updated identification documents, proof of continuous residence and other required paperwork. Missing or incomplete documentation can lead to delays or even a rejection.
- Processing delays: Delays in processing can result from incomplete or inaccurate applications, overlooked documentation or increased processing times. Unfortunately, this can lead to gaps in your DACA status and work authorization, impacting employment and stability.
- Fear of rejection: This fear looms large over many DACA recipients and can be even more intense due to the unpredictability of the DACA program. A rejected application can have serious consequences, including loss of work authorization and protection from deportation.
- Financial worries: The cost of renewing DACA status can be a significant burden, making application fees and other expenses prohibitive for many. Knowing you may face challenges paying for the renewal process can add to your stress and anxiety.
- Fear of deportation: The fear of being deported after calling attention to yourself is a constant concern for DACA recipients – especially during the renewal process. These negative feelings can affect decision-making and logic, potentially jeopardizing the entire process.
As a DACA recipient, you may already face many challenges in the U.S., including:
- Restricted educational and employment opportunities
- Ineligibility for government assistance
- Continuing legal uncertainty about your status
The last thing you need is to face additional obstacles when renewing your DACA status. When you understand the stumbling blocks that may litter your path to DACA renewal, you have a chance to prepare for the challenges that may arise. An immigration lawyer familiar with DACA can offer additional guidance.
Do You Have DACA Protection But Need to Renew It? Call Today.
Our experienced immigration lawyers are available for consultations in person, over the phone or via videoconferencing online. To schedule your appointment, call our office at 305-686-3187 or send an email using the form on our website. We accept credit cards for consultation appointments. Se habla español.