How Much Is It to Renew DACA?

Outline of the Article

1. Introduction
   • Brief Overview of DACA
   • Importance of Renewal
2. Understanding DACA
   • What is DACA?
   • Benefits of DACA
3. Why Renewing DACA is Important
   • Continuation of Benefits
   • Legal Protection
4. Costs Associated with Renewing DACA
   • Breakdown of Fees
   • Additional Costs
5. Filing Fees for DACA Renewal
   • Current Fee Structure
   • Possible Changes in Fees
6. Additional Costs to Consider
   • Legal Fees
   • Documentation Costs
   • Travel Expenses
7. Financial Assistance for DACA Renewal
   • Scholarships and Grants
   • Non-Profit Organizations
   • Community Resources
8. Steps to Renew DACA
   • Preparing Your Application
   • Submitting Your Application
   • What to Expect After Submission
9. Common Challenges and How to Overcome Them
   • Documentation Issues
   • Financial Barriers
   • Delays in Processing
10. Conclusion
    • Recap of Key Points
    • Encouragement to Stay Informed
11. FAQs
    • How often do I need to renew DACA?
    • What happens if I miss the renewal deadline?
    • Can I get a fee waiver for DACA renewal?
    • How long does the renewal process take?
    • What are the consequences of not renewing DACA?

How Much Is It to Renew DACA?

Introduction

For many young immigrants in the United States, the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program is a lifeline. It offers protection from deportation and the ability to work legally. However, maintaining these benefits requires regular renewal. So, how much does it cost to renew DACA? Let’s break it down.

Understanding DACA

What is DACA?

DACA, or Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals, is a program established by the Obama administration in 2012. It provides temporary protection from deportation and work authorization to eligible undocumented immigrants who came to the United States as children.

Benefits of DACA

DACA recipients, often called “Dreamers,” benefit from the ability to legally work, pursue higher education, and live without the constant fear of deportation. These benefits, however, are contingent upon regular renewal of their DACA status.

Why Renewing DACA is Important

Continuation of Benefits

Renewing DACA is crucial to continue receiving the benefits it provides. Without renewal, Dreamers risk losing their work authorization and protection from deportation.

Legal Protection

Regular renewal ensures that DACA recipients remain in good standing with immigration authorities, maintaining their legal protections and work eligibility.

Costs Associated with Renewing DACA

Breakdown of Fees

The primary cost associated with renewing DACA is the filing fee. As of now, the total fee for DACA renewal is $495. This fee includes:

• $410 for the employment authorization application (Form I-765)
• $85 for biometrics services

Additional Costs

Beyond the filing fee, DACA recipients might incur additional costs, including legal fees, costs for obtaining necessary documentation, and travel expenses if they need to visit an immigration office.

Filing Fees for DACA Renewal

Current Fee Structure

The current fee for renewing DACA stands at $495. This fee has remained consistent for several years, despite discussions about potential increases.

Possible Changes in Fees

While the fee has not changed recently, it is subject to potential increases based on administrative decisions. It is essential for DACA recipients to stay informed about any proposed changes to the fee structure.

Additional Costs to Consider

Legal Fees

Many DACA recipients choose to hire an attorney or a legal service provider to assist with their renewal application. Legal fees can vary widely, typically ranging from $200 to $1,500 depending on the complexity of the case and the service provider.

Documentation Costs

Obtaining the necessary documentation, such as birth certificates, school records, and other required documents, can also add to the cost. Fees for obtaining these documents can vary based on the issuing agency.

Travel Expenses

If an in-person visit to an immigration office is required for biometrics or other purposes, travel expenses may also be a factor. This includes transportation costs and potentially lodging if the office is far from the recipient’s home.

Financial Assistance for DACA Renewal

Scholarships and Grants

Several organizations offer scholarships and grants to help cover the cost of DACA renewal. These financial aids can significantly reduce the burden of renewal fees.

Non-Profit Organizations

Non-profit organizations often provide financial assistance and free or low-cost legal services to DACA recipients. Organizations such as United We Dream, the Mexican American Legal Defense and Educational Fund (MALDEF), and others are excellent resources.

Community Resources

Local community groups and immigration advocacy organizations frequently hold fundraisers and provide resources to help DACA recipients cover renewal costs.

Steps to Renew DACA

Preparing Your Application

Start by gathering all necessary documents, such as previous DACA approval notices, employment records, and any other required documentation. Ensure that all information is current and accurate.

Submitting Your Application

Complete the required forms, including Form I-821D (Consideration of Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals), Form I-765 (Application for Employment Authorization), and Form I-765WS (Worksheet). Submit the forms along with the $495 fee and supporting documents.

What to Expect After Submission

After submitting your application, you will receive a notice for a biometrics appointment. Attend this appointment and wait for the USCIS to process your renewal. Processing times can vary, so it’s essential to apply well before your current DACA status expires.

Common Challenges and How to Overcome Them

Documentation Issues

Missing or incorrect documentation can delay the renewal process. Ensure all documents are accurate and complete before submission.

Financial Barriers

If the renewal cost is prohibitive, seek financial assistance from scholarships, grants, and non-profit organizations. Many resources are available to help cover these expenses.

Delays in Processing

Processing delays are common. To avoid losing your DACA status, submit your renewal application well in advance of your expiration date, ideally 150 to 120 days before.

Conclusion

Renewing DACA is a critical process that requires careful preparation and understanding of the associated costs. While the primary fee is $495, additional expenses can add up. However, numerous resources are available to help alleviate these costs. Staying informed and prepared is key to ensuring that you can continue to benefit from the protections and opportunities that DACA provides.

FAQs

How often do I need to renew DACA?

DACA needs to be renewed every two years. It’s essential to start the renewal process well in advance of your expiration date.

What happens if I miss the renewal deadline?

If you miss the renewal deadline, you risk losing your DACA protections and work authorization. It’s crucial to apply for renewal at least 120 to 150 days before your current status expires.

Can I get a fee waiver for DACA renewal?

Currently, USCIS does not offer fee waivers for DACA renewals. However, financial assistance is available through various non-profits and community organizations.

How long does the renewal process take?

The renewal process can take several months. To avoid gaps in your DACA coverage, apply for renewal well before your current status expires.

What are the consequences of not renewing DACA?

Failing to renew DACA can result in losing your work authorization and protection from deportation. It’s crucial to keep your DACA status current to continue benefiting from the program.