How Can DACA Recipients Safeguard Their Status Against Policy Changes?

Keeping Chicago Immigrants Informed

Finding reliable information in today’s shifting landscape can be challenging. For those trapped in the complexities of the country’s immigration system, it can feel even more frightening. At Gilliam Law, our compassionate and dedicated team of immigration lawyers is on your side. We understand the uncertainty and fear the immigration system instills in those trying to navigate it. We are here to guide you.

As a DACA-eligible person, you may have been brought here as a child, so you had no say in the matter, but that doesn’t mean you have to live in constant fear of deportation to a country that you may not remember. You have rights. Our immigration law professionals work for you. We will be your voice. Call 866-511-3422 for a case evaluation.

How Do I Qualify for DACA?

DACA was designed to protect undocumented children brought to the U.S. by their parents from deportation to countries they barely know. This program shields innocent children from legal uncertainty.

While DACA does not provide a path to citizenship or naturalization, it offers essential temporary legal protection from deportation, allowing recipients to focus on building their lives without fear. As a DACA recipient, you can secure a work permit by meeting the program’s requirements and adhering to its guidelines.

At Gilliam Law, our dedicated attorneys are committed to helping you fully understand your rights and responsibilities under DACA. We will stand by your side, offering guidance and support through every step of the process, ensuring you feel confident in navigating this journey.

You must meet several essential requirements to qualify for the DACA program. You must have arrived in the United States before turning 16 and have lived there since June 15, 2007. You must also have been physically present in the United States on June 15, 2012, when you applied for DACA. Additionally, you must have been under 31 on June 15, 2012. Finally, it is crucial that you have no significant criminal record and do not pose any threat to national security.

My DACA-Eligibility is about to expire. Can I renew it?

Following the January 17, 2025, Fifth Circuit Court ruling, the DACA program will remain largely in place. DACA recipients can continue to renew their status by adhering to the standards outlined during their approval. Renewal requests must be submitted before the current eligibility period expires. Work permits will also be renewed if applications are submitted within the appropriate timeframe and the recipient maintains eligibility.

Given the high volume of applications processed by USCIS, submitting your renewal application early is strongly recommended. Current guidelines advise submitting your request 120 to 150 days (4 to 5 months) before your eligibility period ends to avoid delays.

If I Missed My Expiration Date, Is it Still Possible to Renew?

You can renew your DACA status for up to one year after the eligibility date has passed, and your application will still qualify as a renewal. This rule remains in effect, though it is subject to change as guidelines evolve. For this reason, the dependable immigration team from Gilliam Law will keep you informed of any updates to the policy and ensure you stay protected.

If more than 12 months have passed, a lapsed application must be processed as an initial application. While you may technically retain eligibility for DACA status, initial applications are not being accepted now. As the Fifth Circuit ruling moves through the courts, we remain dedicated to guiding you through this uncertain time until a final decision on the program is made.

As a DACA-Eligible Person, Do I Automatically Become A Citizen?

While the DACA program has provided many protections to people since its implementation, it still has limitations. Unfortunately, DACA does not offer a pathway to permanent residency or citizenship. It works as an umbrella to allow relief from fear of deportation. It may allow you to stay in the country as a protected person with limited rights, but as long as you follow the rules, it will not give you the benefits of citizenship or legal status. You will remain as an undocumented person.

It does not leave you without options. If you wish to change your status or review the pathways that may be open to you, the dedicated team at Gilliam Law is happy to answer your questions. We are on your side.

Can I Apply for Citizenship or Permanent Residency if I have DACA?

DACA recipients can apply for and receive their green cards and citizenship if they meet all the requirements and enter the country with a legal visa. Unfortunately, this may not be the case for all DACA-eligible individuals because many did not arrive in the country with legal status.

USCIS understands this is a complex issue for those brought here, and it may not matter if you do not currently have legal status. Although the process becomes more challenging to navigate, achieving this goal may still be possible. By obtaining Advanced Parole documents, you can leave the United States and re-enter legally, meeting the legal entry requirement.

Can An Immigration Attorney Help Me?

Dealing with the United States Immigration System is overwhelming. While ostensibly designed to help, it has become a monolithic monster that is confusing, and the politics that have overtaken the landscape make it more challenging to comprehend. You don’t have to walk that path alone. The compassionate and knowledgeable team of immigration lawyers at Gilliam Law are here to help. Call 866-511-3422 for a case evaluation.