What is DACA?
Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) is a policy designed to protect certain undocumented immigrants, often referred to as “DREAMers,” who arrived in the United States as children. DACA provides temporary relief from deportation, along with work authorization, social security numbers, and the ability to obtain a driver’s license. This allows recipients to live and work in the U.S. legally for two years at a time, with the option to renew. However, it’s essential to know that DACA doesn’t grant permanent residency or citizenship, and it’s only a temporary solution to immigration status issues.
Key Changes in DACA Fees Starting April 1, 2024
- Online Renewal Fee: $555 (new rate)
- Paper Renewal Fee: $605 (new rate)
- Advance Parole (Travel Document, Form I-131): Fee increases to $630 from $575.
- Paper Renewal Payment Process: Payments must be split into two parts: $85 for the DACA application (Form I-821D) and $520 for the work permit application (Form I-765).
Benefits of DACA in 2024
DACA offers several key benefits to its recipients, which number around 832,881 people. These benefits include:
- Protection from Deportation: DACA provides a temporary shield from deportation, so recipients can remain in the U.S. without fear of being sent back to their countries of origin, which many may not even remember.
- Work Authorization: DACA recipients are granted a work permit, which opens up better job opportunities, higher wages, and career growth.
- Access to Education: While DACA does not provide federal financial aid, recipients can pursue higher education and may qualify for state or institutional scholarships and financial aid in some states.
- Social Security Number (SSN): A crucial part of life in the U.S., the SSN allows recipients to work, open bank accounts, and access other essential services.
- Driver’s Licenses and State IDs: In most states, DACA recipients can apply for a driver’s license or state-issued identification, making it easier to access services and travel.
- Healthcare Access: Although DACA recipients are not eligible for federal programs like Medicaid, their legal status and SSN can help them obtain healthcare through employers or private insurance.
- Continuous Protection: DACA status is renewable every two years, as long as the individual continues to meet eligibility criteria.
- Path to Further Immigration Relief: For some, DACA is a step toward other forms of permanent residency, such as through marriage to a U.S. citizen or changes in their immigration circumstances.
- Economic and Social Integration: The ability to work, study, and live legally in the U.S. helps DACA recipients better integrate into society, contributing to the economy and their communities.
Health Insurance Access for DACA Recipients in 2024
Starting November 1, 2024, DACA recipients will gain access to Affordable Care Act (ACA) coverage. This will allow more than 100,000 DACA recipients to apply for health insurance through the Marketplace and possibly receive tax credits or cost-sharing assistance based on their income.
Who Can Apply for DACA?
According to the Center for American Progress, around 1.8 million people are eligible for DACA, although fewer than 1 million are currently enrolled. To be eligible for DACA, applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Entered the U.S. unlawfully before turning 16.
- Lived in the U.S. continuously since June 15, 2007.
- Were under 31 years old on June 15, 2012.
- Were physically present in the U.S. on June 15, 2012, and at the time of applying.
- Had no lawful immigration status on June 15, 2012.
- Have either completed high school, obtained a GED, or served in the U.S. military.
- Have no serious criminal history (felonies or multiple misdemeanors) and do not pose a national security risk.
Applicants must also be up to 31 years old and meet other specific criteria to qualify.
How to Apply for DACA
If you’re applying for DACA for the first time, follow these steps:
- Complete Forms: Fill out Form I-821D (Consideration of Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals) and Form I-765 (Application for Employment Authorization Document).
- Submit Fees: Send the forms and $750 in fees to USCIS.
- Biometrics Appointment: Attend a required biometrics appointment at a local USCIS Application Support Center.
DACA Supporting Documents
To apply for DACA, you must submit certain documents, including:
- Proof of Identity: Passport, birth certificate, state-issued photo ID, or military ID.
- Proof of Entry Before Age 16: Travel documents, school records, or medical documents.
- Proof of Continuous U.S. Residence Since 2007: Documents like tax returns, school records, and employment records.
- Proof of Presence on June 15, 2012: Rent receipts, utility bills, or school records from that time.
- Proof of No Lawful Status on June 15, 2012: Form I-94 or other immigration documents.
- Proof of Education or Military Service: School records, GED certificates, or military service documents.
- Criminal History: If applicable, provide records of arrests, charges, or court documents.
DACA Renewal Process
USCIS recommends that recipients apply for renewal 120 to 150 days before their current DACA status expires. To renew, you must:
- Submit Form I-821D and Form I-765 again.
- Provide any new documents related to criminal history or deportation proceedings.
- Pay the renewal fee of $750.
DACA Program History
DACA was introduced by President Obama in 2012 after Congress failed to pass the DREAM Act, which aimed to offer legal status to young undocumented immigrants. Obama used executive orders to create DACA as a temporary solution.
Over the years, the program faced challenges, especially under the Trump administration, which tried to end DACA. In 2020, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled that the attempt to end DACA was illegal. The Biden administration has continued to defend the program and push for permanent legislative solutions. However, as of 2023, the status of DACA remains uncertain due to ongoing legal challenges.
DACA FAQs
- Are DACA Students Eligible for Financial Aid? DACA recipients do not qualify for federal financial aid, but they may be able to access state or institutional financial aid depending on where they live.
- Are DACA Recipients U.S. Citizens? No, DACA recipients are not U.S. citizens or lawful permanent residents. The program does not grant them permanent legal status or a direct path to citizenship.
- Can DACA Recipients Travel? DACA recipients can apply for a travel document called Advance Parole, which permits travel abroad for specific purposes, like work, study, or humanitarian reasons.
- Are DACA Recipients Eligible for Medicaid? Some states, including California, Minnesota, and New York, offer limited Medicaid benefits to DACA recipients who meet specific criteria.
DACA is a crucial lifeline for many young immigrants in the U.S., offering protection from deportation, the chance to work legally, and a path to better opportunities. However, the program is not a permanent solution and does not grant citizenship. If you’re eligible, it is important to understand the application process, fees, and requirements for renewal. Keeping up-to-date with changes, such as the new fees for 2024, is essential to maintaining your DACA status.
