How to Apply for Deferred Action as a New Jersey Family
If you are an undocumented immigrant residing in New Jersey, you may be eligible for Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA). This program, established by the Obama administration in 2012, provides temporary relief from deportation and work authorization to certain individuals who arrived in the United States as children. In this blog post, we will provide a step-by-step guide on how to apply for DACA as a New Jersey family.
Step 1: Check Your Eligibility
Before applying for DACA, it is important to ensure that you meet the program’s eligibility criteria. To qualify for DACA, you must meet the following requirements:
- You were under the age of 31 as of June 15, 2012.
- You came to the United States before your 16th birthday.
- You have continuously resided in the United States since June 15, 2007, up to the present time.
- You were physically present in the United States on June 15, 2012, and at the time of making your DACA request.
- You entered the United States without inspection before June 15, 2012, or your lawful immigration status expired as of June 15, 2012.
- You are currently in school, have graduated or obtained a certificate of completion from high school, have obtained a general education development (GED) certificate, or are an honorably discharged veteran of the Coast Guard or Armed Forces of the United States.
- You 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.
- If you meet these criteria, you may be eligible to apply for DACA.
Step 2: Gather Your Documents
To apply for DACA, you will need to provide various documents to support your application. These may include:
- Proof of identity, such as a passport, birth certificate, or national identity card.
- Proof of entry to the United States, such as a visa or border crossing card.
- Proof of your presence in the United States since June 15, 2007, such as school records, medical records, or utility bills.
- Proof of your education or military service, such as a diploma, transcripts, or military service records.
- Proof of any criminal history, such as court records or police certificates.
Step 3: Fill Out the Application
To apply for DACA, you will need to fill out Form I-821D, Consideration of Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals. This form requires you to provide personal information, such as your name, address, and date of birth, as well as information about your immigration history and criminal background. You will also need to fill out Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization, to apply for work authorization.
Step 4: Pay the Fees
To apply for DACA, you will need to pay a fee of $495. This fee covers the cost of processing your application and conducting background checks. If you cannot afford the fee, you may be eligible for a fee waiver.
Step 5: Submit Your Application
Once you have filled out your application and gathered your supporting documents, you will need to submit your application to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). You can submit your application by mail or online. If you submit your application by mail, be sure to send it to the correct USCIS address and include all required fees and documents.
It is also important to note that if you are approved for DACA, you will need to renew your application every two years to maintain your status and work authorization. Be sure to submit your renewal application on time to avoid any gaps in your authorization.
It is also worth mentioning that while DACA provides temporary relief from deportation and work authorization, it does not provide a path to permanent residency or citizenship. If you are interested in obtaining legal permanent residency, you should consult with an experienced immigration attorney to explore your options.
It is important to be aware that DACA has faced legal challenges and uncertainty in recent years. It is always a good idea to stay informed about any changes or updates to the program, especially under the current political climate. You can stay informed through reputable sources, such as USCIS and immigrant rights organizations.
Applying for DACA as a New Jersey family can be a challenging process, but it is worth it for the benefits it can provide. By following these steps and seeking legal guidance if needed, you can increase your chances of success. Remember to stay informed and keep your application up to date to maintain your DACA status.
At The Scheer Immigration Law Group, we understand that applying for Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) as a New Jersey family can be a challenging and stressful process. That’s why we offer comprehensive legal services to guide you through every step of the way. We can assist you in determining your eligibility for DACA, collecting all required documents, completing the application forms, submitting your application and fees to USCIS, and following up with USCIS to ensure that your application is processed in a timely manner.
Our experienced attorneys can also help you appeal any denials and explore other legal options that may be available to you. We are committed to providing our clients with personalized and compassionate legal representation and keeping them informed throughout the application process.
If you are considering applying for DACA as a New Jersey family, we encourage you to contact us to schedule a consultation. We can assess your eligibility and help you understand your options for obtaining temporary relief from deportation and work authorization. Let us help you achieve your immigration goals and secure a better future for you and your family.