Recently, the Committee on Immigrant and Refugee Rights has received reports of delayed renewals of DACA renewals. Here’s what’s happening, and what you can do about it!
What is DACA?
Before that If you are not familiar with The Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) an Executive Order, signed by President Obama on June 15, 2012, offers temporary protection from deportation and a renewable two-year work permit to eligible undocumented immigrants who came to the U.S. as children. While the program is currently in litigation, DACA recipients can continue to renew their work authorization every two years.
Why are renewals delayed?
Recent information indicates that USCIS is taking longer to process renewals, potentially because they have reinstated the requirement for biometric appointments, a step that was paused during the pandemic. Late filings for renewals might take longer for approval.
Attorneys recommended that DACA recipients apply between 120 and 150 days before your current DACA and Employment Authorization Document (EAD) expire. You can use the National Immigration Law Center’s DACA Renewal Calculator if you are unsure of your timeline.
How do I check my renewal status?
If you’ve already sent your renewal application, you can check your case status online at the USCIS website. Be sure to keep records of when you applied, and document the timeline.
What do I do if my DACA renewal is delayed?
If your renewal is delayed, you can submit an inquiry with USCIS via e-request at egov.uscis.gov/e-request or by calling 1-800-375-5283.
If your renewal has been pending for more than 105 days since the receipt notice, you can contact your Congressional representative and ask them to inquire about your case. You can find your Congressional representative on the House website. If you live in Illinois, you can also reach out to the office of Senator Durbin and Senator Duckworth for assistance.
How can I get help renewing my DACA?
If you live in Illinois and need assistance to renew your DACA, contact the ICIRR Family Support Hotline at 855-435-7693. They can connect you with assistance, and they also offer scholarships to help cover renewal fees and can connect you with a nearby organization for assistance.
Here are some other resources:
- The National Immigrant Justice Center (NIJC) offers regular DACA renewal clinics. Visit the NIJC website for a list of upcoming workshops.
- The Resurrection Project also offers free legal assistance. Visit the TRP website to make an appointment for an upcoming Immigrant Justice Legal Clinic.