DACA
What is the DACA Program?
The Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program, established on June 15, 2012, provides temporary protection from deportation and work authorization to eligible undocumented immigrants who came to the United States as children. This program offers recipients a chance to stay in the country, pursue education, and work legally. As a reputable law firm in Dallas TX, we specialize in helping clients navigate the complexities of the DACA program, ensuring they meet all requirements and successfully secure their status.
Our DACA attorneys in Dallas TX are experienced in handling a wide range of cases, providing professional legal services to individuals and families. We understand the critical importance of maintaining your immigration status and work tirelessly to help you achieve the best possible outcome. Our team is dedicated to providing the highest level of service and support, guiding you through every step of the DACA process.
The DACA program has provided a vital lifeline for many young immigrants, commonly referred to as “Dreamers.” These individuals often face significant challenges due to their undocumented status, including limited access to higher education, employment, and other opportunities. The DACA program aims to alleviate some of these burdens by offering temporary relief and allowing recipients to build more secure and stable lives in the United States.
Understanding DACA Eligibility
Our team at Escoto Law offers a comprehensive range of immigration legal services, ensuring that all your needs are met under one roof.
1.
Were under the age of 31 as of June 15, 2012.
2.
Came to the United States before reaching their 16th birthday.
3.
Have continuously resided in the United States since June 15, 2007, up to the present time.
4.
Were physically present in the United States on June 15, 2012, and at the time of making their request for consideration of deferred action with USCIS.
5.
Had no lawful status on June 15, 2012.
6.
Are currently in school, have graduated or obtained a certificate of completion from high school, have obtained a GED, or are an honorably discharged veteran of the Coast Guard or Armed Forces of the United States.
7.
Have not been convicted of a felony, significant misdemeanor, or three or more other misdemeanors, and do not otherwise pose a threat to national security or public safety.
Our DACA attorneys in Dallas TX will help you determine your eligibility and guide you through the application process. We provide thorough consultations to ensure you understand the requirements and gather all necessary documentation.
Understanding the nuances of DACA eligibility is crucial for a successful application. For instance, the requirement to have no lawful status on June 15, 2012, means that individuals who were in the United States on a valid visa on that date are not eligible for DACA.
Additionally, the continuous residence requirement since June 15, 2007, necessitates providing evidence such as school records, utility bills, or lease agreements to demonstrate your physical presence in the country.
Filing the DACA Application
Filing the DACA application involves several important steps. Our DACA attorneys in Dallas TX will assist you in completing the necessary forms, ensuring that all information is accurate and complete. The key forms involved in the DACA application process include:
1.
Form I-821D
Consideration of Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals
2.
Form I-765
Application for Employment Authorization
3.
Form I-765WS
Worksheet
We will guide you through each section of the forms, helping you provide the required information and documentation. Our attorneys will also ensure that you understand the importance of each part of the application and how it impacts your case.
Accurate completion of these forms is critical to avoid delays or denials. We will thoroughly review each form with you, ensuring that all details are correctly entered and that any necessary explanations are provided. Additionally, we will help you gather the required supporting documents, such as proof of identity, proof of arrival in the U.S. before age 16, and evidence of continuous residence since June 15, 2007.
Document Preparation and Submission
Proper documentation is essential for a successful DACA application. Our DACA attorneys in Dallas TX will help you gather and prepare all necessary documents, including:
1.
Proof of identity (e.g., passport, birth certificate)
2.
Proof of arrival in the United States before age 16
3.
Proof of continuous residence in the United States since June 15, 2007
4.
Proof of presence in the United States on June 15, 2012
5.
Proof of current school enrollment, high school diploma, GED certificate, or honorable discharge from the military
6.
Criminal records and background checks, if applicable
We will meticulously review all documentation to ensure it meets USCIS requirements and supports your application. Our goal is to provide a strong and comprehensive application package that maximizes your chances of approval.
The preparation and organization of these documents can be time-consuming, but it is crucial to present a complete and accurate application. Our team will assist you in compiling all necessary evidence, creating a detailed timeline of your presence in the United States, and ensuring that each piece of documentation is properly formatted and submitted. This attention to detail is vital for demonstrating your eligibility and securing DACA approval.
Handling Requests for Evidence (RFE)
In some cases, USCIS may issue a Request for Evidence (RFE) if additional information or documentation is needed to process your DACA application. Receiving an RFE can be stressful, but our DACA attorneys in Dallas TX are here to help you respond effectively.
We will carefully review the RFE, identify the required information, and assist you in gathering and submitting the necessary documents. Our team will ensure that your response is thorough and timely, addressing all issues raised by USCIS. Our experience in handling RFEs ensures that we can effectively manage these requests and keep your application on track.
Responding to an RFE requires careful attention to detail and a thorough understanding of USCIS requirements. Our attorneys will work with you to gather any additional evidence needed, such as updated school records, employment verification, or affidavits from community members. We will also draft a comprehensive response letter that clearly addresses each point raised in the RFE, providing the best possible chance for a favorable outcome.
Post-DACA Approval Guidance and Support
Once your DACA application is approved, you will receive work authorization and protection from deportation. However, maintaining your DACA status requires ongoing compliance with program requirements and timely renewal of your status.
Our DACA attorneys in Dallas TX provide ongoing support and guidance to help you maintain your status. We will assist you with the renewal process, ensuring that your application is submitted on time and that all required documentation is provided. Our goal is to help you continue to benefit from the DACA program and achieve long-term stability in the United States.
In addition to renewal assistance, we offer guidance on other immigration options, such as applying for a green card or pursuing citizenship. Our team is dedicated to helping you achieve your long-term immigration goals and providing the support you need at every stage of the process.
Maintaining your DACA status involves understanding the renewal timelines, preparing and submitting renewal applications, and ensuring that you continue to meet the program’s requirements. Our attorneys will provide you with reminders and support to keep your status current. We will also explore other pathways to more permanent immigration solutions, helping you to achieve greater security and stability in the United States.
Conclusion
At Escoto Law, our team of experienced DACA attorneys in Dallas TX is committed to providing the highest level of legal representation and support to our clients. We understand the complexities of the DACA program and are dedicated to helping you navigate the application process, respond to RFEs, and maintain your status. Our goal is to help you achieve a successful outcome and secure your future in the United States.
If you are considering applying for DACA or need assistance with a renewal or other immigration matter, contact our office today to schedule a consultation. Our knowledgeable and compassionate attorneys are here to help you every step of the way.
