10 Daca Renewal Tips To Save Money

The Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program has been a lifeline for hundreds of thousands of young undocumented immigrants in the United States, providing them with temporary protection from deportation and access to work permits. However, with the program's uncertain future, it's essential for DACA recipients to be proactive in managing their renewal applications and associated costs. In this article, we will provide 10 DACA renewal tips to help recipients save money and navigate the complex process.

DACA Renewal Process Overview

The DACA renewal process involves submitting a new application, paying the required fees, and providing updated documentation. The process typically takes several months to complete, and recipients are advised to apply at least 120 days before their current DACA status expires. The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) agency processes all DACA applications, and recipients can expect to pay a fee of 495 for the <em>Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization</em>, and 85 for the biometric services fee.

Understanding the Costs Involved

The total cost for a DACA renewal application can range from 580 to over 1,000, depending on the services required and the applicant’s location. The main components of the cost include the USCIS filing fee, biometric services fee, and any additional costs for legal representation or document preparation. To help mitigate these costs, we have compiled a list of 10 tips for DACA recipients to save money during the renewal process.

10 DACA Renewal Tips to Save Money

Here are 10 tips to help DACA recipients save money during the renewal process:

1. Plan Ahead: Apply for renewal at least 120 days before the expiration date to avoid last-minute rushes and potential delays.
2. Prepare Carefully: Ensure all required documents are complete and accurate to avoid rejections or requests for additional evidence.
3. Use Free or Low-Cost Resources: Utilize free or low-cost legal clinics, non-profit organizations, or online resources to prepare the application and reduce costs.
4. Avoid Unnecessary Fees: Be cautious of scams or services that promise guaranteed approvals or charge exorbitant fees for application preparation.
5. Check for Fee Waivers: Eligible applicants may be able to request a fee waiver for the USCIS filing fee or biometric services fee.
6. Seek Pro Bono Legal Help: Many law firms and non-profit organizations offer pro bono legal services for DACA recipients, which can significantly reduce costs.
7. Apply for a Fee Reduction: In some cases, applicants may be eligible for a reduced fee, which can lower the overall cost of the application.
8. Use Online Tools: Leverage online resources, such as the USCIS website or online application portals, to streamline the application process and reduce costs.
9. Get Help from Community Organizations: Many community organizations, churches, and advocacy groups offer free or low-cost assistance with DACA renewal applications.
10. Stay Informed: Stay up-to-date with the latest developments and changes in the DACA program, including any updates to the application process or fees.

Conclusion and Future Implications

The DACA renewal process can be complex and costly, but by being prepared and taking advantage of available resources, recipients can minimize their expenses. As the program continues to evolve, it’s crucial for recipients to stay informed and adapt to any changes. By doing so, they can ensure their continued protection under the program and access to the benefits it provides.