On July 16, 2021, a federal judge in Texas ruled that the DACA program is unlawful. This means that you can apply for DACA if you have never applied before, however USCIS will not issue a decision, so your DACA application will not be approved or denied. Consult with an attorney or DOJ accredited representative to explore the best option for your case.
This ruling means:
- If you have a pending initial DACA application, USCIS cannot approve your application for the time being
- If you currently have DACA, your status is still valid and you can apply to renew
For a list of organizations accepting DACA consultations please visit this page or https://www.icirr.org/daca.
Begin preparing your documents should another DACA decision occur and be sure to speak to an attorney or DOJ accredited representative about your options!
Eligibility – You may request DACA for the first time if you:
- Were born on or after June 15, 1981
- Came to the U.S. before your 16th birthday
- Continuously lived in the U.S. since June 15, 2007 to present
- Had no lawful status on June 15, 2012
- Are currently in school or GED or have graduated from high school or GED
- Have not been convicted of a felony, significant misdemeanor, or 3 or more misdemeanors
Proof of Identity – One valid form of I.D.:
- Passport
- Birth certificate and photo I.D.
- Any national I.D. from your country of origin with photo and/or fingerprint
- Driver’s license
- Any school-issued I.D. with photo
Proof you came to the U.S. before your 16th birthday – One of the following:
- Passport with admission stamp or DHS document with entry date
- Form 1-94 or 1-94W (arrival records)
- School transcripts
- Travel records (i.e. tickets demonstrating your arrival into the U.S.
- Hospital or medical records
Education Requirement – Demonstrate your student status:
- Currently in school or GED: school records or enrollment record
- Graduate: diploma, GED certificate, or transcripts with graduation date
Demonstrate continuous presence in the U.S. – gather documents with your name & date for each month since June 2007:
- School transcripts
- Cell-phone bills
- Utility bills
- Medical records
- Bank statements
- Mortgage records
- Leases or loan docs
Have you ever been arrested?
Obtain a certified disposition
GED Courses:
if you do not currently meet the education requirement, enroll in a GED program
Save funds to apply:
The USCIS fee for DACA is $495