When Kentucky residents or others discuss immigration topics, it is often a cause for debate. Ever-changing U.S. immigration laws make it challenging to stay updated on pertinent information. If you or your loved one hopes to renew a Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals status, you’ll want to first research updated information, as this particular program has undergone changes under the current presidential administration.
The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services department is still accepting DACA applications. There are various forms, fees and other legal issues involved in the process. As an immigrant, your ability to stay in the United States greatly hinges on your legal status. If your paperwork is not in good order or your status application has expired, you are at risk for deportation.
Dates are important regarding DACA renewals
The following list includes information that may apply to your situation if you are hoping to obtain a DACA renewal:
- There is a date on your I-797 Notice of Action form, which you should have received when the government approved your original DACA status. Your status expires two years from that date.
- If your status didn’t expire until Sept. 5, 2016 or later, you may be eligible to apply for renewal.
- If your status expired before that date, you must apply as though you are a first-time applicant.
- It is best to apply for renewal no later than 120 days prior to your status expiration date. If you file later, it may cause significant processing delays.
- The information you provide on an original DACA application and a renewal should coincide.
- If, for some reason, you don’t have your original application, you may still be able to apply for DACA but will have to inquire as to how to apply in such circumstances.
Whether you are a visa holder, a DACA recipient or are in the United States on a temporary basis, if your status expires, you may be at risk for removal. Facing immigration law problems can be stressful and frightening. It’s a good idea to seek support, as needed, rather than try to go it alone because the choices you make and steps you take may affect the ultimate outcome of your situation.
Your future in the United States
The U.S. government enacted the DACA policy because it recognized that many immigrants have grown up in Kentucky or other states after their parents brought them across U.S. borders as infants or children. In short, if an adult brought you to America as a child, you didn’t have much say in the matter. By learning as much as you can about the DACA application process and knowing where to seek legal support, you may be able to overcome a status obstacle if one arises.
