The Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program is still available and the government is still accepting and approving renewal applications. However, the program could be terminated at any time. As a result, the information in this document could change so always stay up to date.

Current DACA Recipients – Stay Calm and Stay Out of Trouble

DACA should continue to provide you the same benefits–protection from deportation, work authorization and more. However, even if you have DACA, immigration authorities may detain you and terminate your DACA if you, after receiving a DACA grant:
 

• are arrested or convicted for any criminal offense,

• admit to any criminal offense,

• are determined to pose a threat to public safety or national security,

• admit to fraud in connection with a government agency (such as use of a false social security number), or

• admit to gang affiliation.

According to DHS, if you disclosed the above information in previous DACA applications and your case was approved, you will continue to hold DACA. If you failed to disclose any criminal history in your application or experience new criminal issues after receiving DACA, you should speak to an attorney as you may be at risk. 

DACA Renewals – Recommended for Certain Applicants:
If you currently have DACA and want to renew it, you should renew immediately after consulting with an experienced immigration attorney or accredited representative.

DACA renewal applications are still being accepted and approved which means you may receive a new work permit valid for another two years. The main risk is that the DACA program could be changed or terminated suddenly. If your renewal application is not approved before the program is terminated, you may lose the $495 application fee.

If you have any prior or new immigration or criminal issues, do not apply to renew your DACA until you first consult with a trusted legal service provider to assess your case. Some past criminal or immigration issues could impact your renewal application now even if you were approved for DACA in the past.

FIRST TIME DACA APPLICATIONS ARE NOT BEING ACCEPTED. 

​

If you have any questions about DACA, feel free to reach out. We can connect you to local resources in Long Beach. 

​