Applying for Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) is a lengthy procedure that can be overwhelming. It’s important to know the eligibility requirements, the steps to take, and other information that may be helpful in the process. This article will give you a complete overview of applying for DACA.
First and foremost, it’s important to know that DACA is a program that grants certain immigrants who were brought to the United States as children with protection from deportation and the ability to apply for work permits. The Obama administration initiated the program in 2012, and it is now in place. Applicants must apply for DACA before their 16th birthday and have lived in the United States since June 15, 2007.
Once you’ve established that you meet the eligibility criteria, the next step is to prepare the necessary paperwork and forms. These include a Form I-821D, Application for Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals, as well as supporting documents to show your identity, immigration status, and presence in the United States. Documents such as passports, birth certificates, school records, and medical information may be required. In addition, applicants must show that they have not been found not guilty of a criminal or certain misdemeanors.
After all of the paperwork has been submitted, the next step is to request a fee of $495. This fee must be paid with a credit or debit card in order to process the application. Candidates should also keep track of the receipt number provided by the United States. For their information, Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).
Once the application and payment have been processed, applicants will be sent a receipt from USCIS. The case number and the date of the receipt will be shown in this alert. It’s important to have this information on hand because it will be used for future communication with USCIS.
Applicants will then have to wait for their petition to be processed. Within 90 days of receiving the petition, USCIS will make a decision within 90 days. If accepted, the applicant will be given a note of acceptance and will be given a work permit and Social Security Number.
Applying for DACA can be lengthy and complicated, but knowing the requirements, steps, and other information will help make the process much simpler. The best way to ensure a successful application is to follow these steps and gather the required documentation.