Welcome News for DREAMers: Work Authorization Renewals Possible
June 5, 2014 | Tags: DACA | DREAMers
Secretary of Homeland Security Johnson provided expected but nonetheless welcome news that the Administration is continuing to provide work authorization and other relief for individuals who were under age 31 as of 2012 and meet other requirements. Effective immediately, USCIS will begin accepting renewal requests. USCIS will also continue to accept DACA requests from individuals who have not previously filed an application.
The first DACA approvals will begin to expire in September 2014. To avoid a lapse in work authorization, individuals should submit renewal requests 120 days in advance of current expiration. Applicants may request DACA renewal where they meet the following initial criteria:
Did not depart the United States on or after Aug. 15, 2012, without advance parole;
Have continuously resided in the United States since they submitted their most recent DACA request that was approved; and
Have not been convicted of a felony, a significant misdemeanor or three or more misdemeanors, and do not otherwise pose a threat to national security or public safety.
For additional specifics, click here.
Individuals who think they may be eligible for a renewal of deferred action and work authorization are urged to begin gathering documentation to support their applications.
