Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA), announced on June 15, 2012, provides access to work authorization and a valid social security number for certain undocumented immigrants. Since the announcement, over 30,000 people in Illinois have been granted deferred action status but there are more residents of Illinois who haven't yet applied who may be eligible.If granted deferred action under the DACA program, the status lasts for two years from the date of the grant. Deferred action can be renewed before the end of the two year period. Those who are approved for deferred action under the DACA program will need to wait until U. S. Citizenship and Immigration Services publishes an updated form on which to apply.
It is important that individuals who currently have deferred action under DACA don’t wait until the last minute to apply to renew. Don't apply too early - US CIS will reject any application filed more than 150 days before expiration. But don't apply too late! US CIS currently states that those currently in DACA status should file 120 days before expiration. The expiration date is listed on the card. It is important to file no later than 120 days before expiration to avoid lapse in status.
Additional resources on DACA Renewal are available.
The DACA renewal application fee is $465 with limited exemptions. There are loan and lending circle programs available to help cover the filing fee costs.
Initial Application for DACA
For those that have never been granted deferred action under the DACA program, there is no deadline. It’s not too late to apply! You just have to meet the requirements.
For assistance on applying or renewing under DACA, consult and authorized immigration legal services provider.
Additional Resources on DACA are available.