Though politics has prevented the deferred action programs from full implementation, it is never too early to start preparing for when they do take Tucker & Nongeffect. When it comes to immigration matters, it is important to make sure you can provide every piece of information necessary, fill out all appropriate forms, and are ready to pay the necessary fees. Too often, simple errors in preparation can make the difference between approval and denial.

Make Sure You Qualify for a Deferred Action Program

The two main deferred action programs proposed by President Obama are the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) and the Deferred Action for Parents of Citizens and Lawful Residents (DAPA). First, read the guidelines to see if you qualify for one of these programs.

If you aren’t sure if you qualify under these guidelines, don’t hesitate to reach out to our experienced lawyers. Take a moment to fill out our online contact form, and you’ll receive a prompt response from a member of our legal team who can answer your questions and help you get started pursuing deferred action.

You Qualify; So What Should You Do Now?

It can feel overwhelming when getting started on an immigration application of any type. It is possible, though, with careful planning and preparation to be successful navigating the application process the first time. Many documents must be offered to the government. Start gathering these documents now to facilitate your DACA or DAPA application:

Proof of identity

These documents could include: passport from native country, birth certificate with photo, school or military identification with photo, any U.S. immigration documents containing your name and photo.

Proof you came to the U.S. before your 16th birthday

Acceptable proof could include a passport with admission stamp, school records from U.S. schools you have attended, travel records, hospital or medical records, employment records, records from a religious entity confirming your participation, dated bank transactions, auto license receipts or registration, tax receipts or insurance policies, or birth certificates of children born in the U.S.

Proof of immigration status

Government forms such as forms I-94, I-95 and I-94W, or orders of deportation, removal, or exclusion would be appropriate.

Proof of presence in the U.S. on June 15, 2012

To establish your presences on this date, proof could include rent or utility bills, employment records, school records, military records, or official records from a religious entity.

Proof of continuous residence since June 15, 2007

While there is no specific requirement as to the volume of proof that will satisfy this requirement, it is important to offer documents to account for as much of the time as possible. It is recommended to offer evidence of your presence for at least each year during the period of time you arrived until your application.

Proof of student status (for DACA)

This proof could include school transcripts, report cards, diploma, or GED certificate.

Proof of armed forces service

Appropriate documents in this category could include military health or personnel records, an official Certificate of Release or Discharge From Active Duty, or a National Guard Report of Separation and Record of Service.

It is a good idea to make copies of all these documents and store them in a safe place where you can access them easily. The documents submitted to the government do not need to be the original documents, unless the original is requested.

What Else Can I Do Now to Help With the Application Process?

In addition to gathering the necessary proof documents, there are other considerations to take for the DACA and DAPA applications. Those include:

Fees

Fees are due at the time of application, and the government does not typically offer a payment plan. There are very few situations in which the fees can be waived, so it’s a good idea to start saving now to ensure that you have the funds you need to keep your application moving. For DACA, the initial application fee is $465.

Travel

Some travel outside the U.S. can negatively affect your application. Travel after certain dates or for some certain lengths of time can be viewed detrimentally by the U.S. government. You cannot travel while your application is under review, so do not plan any trips during that time.

Criminal history

A criminal record can also have a negative impact on your application. If you have been arrested and/or convicted of a crime, it is a good idea to discuss your situation with an attorney experienced in both criminal charges and immigration. In many cases, there are legal options available to mitigate the effects of the charges on an immigration application.

Are You Concerned About How Executive Orders On Immigration Can Impact Your Life?

If you feel recent Executive Oorders On Immigration will impact your legal status within the United States you need to speak with an experienced immigration attorney as soon as possible. Please contact us online or call our Vienna, Virgnia office directly at 703.991.7978 or our Rockville, Maryland office at 301.637.5392 to schedule your case consultation.

 

Yuvora Nong
Helping VA, MD & Washington D.C. clients with all of their immigration law legal needs since 1997.