USCIS Issues Updated DACA Policy

USCIS has announced updated policies regarding adjudicating DACA requests and related work permit applications. The U.S. Supreme Court ruled on June 18 that the Trump Administration failed to provide an adequate justification for terminating the Deferred Action For Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program. This decision means that the DACA program will remain in place for the time being.  To learn more about the DACA program please click here. However, since the Supreme Court’s decision, USCIS and the Trump Administration have not processed any DACA applications. They have not “granted nor rejected” any applications but have rather put them “on hold” as the government discusses the future of the program.

USCIS has confirmed that it will not accept initial DACA requests and work permit applications from individuals who have never received DACA protections in the past. Any applications will be returned along with the fee. The agency will continue to accept timely filed renewals from existing DACA beneficiaries as well as new applications from those who were previously granted DACA protections, whose prior grant has either expired or was terminated by USCIS. The extensions however, will now be limited to one year increments. The agency recommends that eligible applicants file their requests between 150 and 120 days before the current grant of DACA and employment authorization expire.