DACA Renewal for Guatemalan Youth: An Essential Guide

The Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program provides young Guatemalans brought to the U.S. with the opportunity to participate in the DACA program. during their childhood the opportunity to remain in the country legally.

If you are already part of this program, it is crucial to renew your DACA on time to maintain your benefits. Here are the steps, requirements, and tips for DACA renewal, ensuring that you continue to enjoy your life in the United States without interruption.

Steps for DACA Renewal

1. Check your Renewal Period: Ideally, you should begin the renewal process between 150 and 120 days before the expiration date of your current DACA permit. Renewing your status within this period guarantees your continued eligibility and work permits.

2. Gather the Necessary Documentation: You will need your current work permit (EAD), your Social Security number, and a copy of your last DACA approval. In addition, prepare any documents proving your continued U.S. residency. from your last DACA approval until now.

3. Complete Form I-821D: This form is essential for the renewal of your DACA. Be sure to fill it out carefully, following all instructions and answering each question accurately. Remember to use the most current version of the form, available on the USCIS website.

4. Complete Form I-765 and Worksheet I-765WS: Even if you are renewing your DACA, you need to also complete the form to apply for your work permit, along with the worksheet that justifies your financial need to work.

5. Pay the Renewal Fees: Renewal of DACA requires payment of the appropriate Form I-765 (Work Permit) fee. Check the USCIS website for the current fee.

6. Submit your Application: Once you have gathered and completed all the necessary documents and forms, send them to the USCIS following the specific instructions for the mailing address, which varies depending on your location.

Essential Requirements

Renewing your DACA is more than just a paperwork; it is about securing your future in this country we call home. To make this process as smooth as possible, there are a few essential things to keep in mind:

• About Your Travel: If after your DACA was initially approved you have left the U.S., you may be eligible for DACA. without special permission from USCIS, it is important to know that this could complicate your renewal. The rule of thumb here is simple: if you didn’t have a permit, let’s talk about how this affects your case.
• Your Life in the U.S.: This country has been your home since you were granted DACA. Continuing to live here, without long absences, is a key requirement. Think U.S. not only as the place where you reside, but as the space where you continue to build your life, day after day.
• Your Legal History: Everyone makes mistakes, but for DACA renewal, it is crucial to have no felony convictions, significant misdemeanors, or three or more misdemeanors of any kind. If you have any doubts about how it might affect your record, it’s time to talk to an expert.

Tips for a Successful DACA Renewal

There are 3 fundamental aspects to take into account:

• Organize your Renewal History: As when you keep the memories of important moments, keep copies of all the documents and forms you send, as well as the responses you receive. This not only gives you peace of mind, but also prepares you for any eventuality.
• Don’t Be Afraid to Ask for Help: Life changes and with it, our circumstances. If there have been significant changes in your life since your last DACA approval or if you simply have questions, seeking legal advice is not only a smart move, it is an act of self-care. Immigration attorneys are here to help you navigate these changes.
• Stay up to date: The world of immigration is always on the move, and the last thing we want is for it to take you by surprise. Making information your ally is key. Follow USCIS updates, connect with immigrant support organizations, and remember, knowledge is power.

Renewing your DACA is reaffirming your place in the United States, a place full of dreams and possibilities. With these tips and requirements in mind, you are not only preparing yourself for a successful process, but also embracing your future with confidence and hope. Let’s go for it!

Case Study: Luis’ DACA Renewal

Luis is a 25-year-old Guatemalan who came to the United States with his family when he was only 7 years old. Since then, he has lived in the U.S., attended local school, graduated from college with honors in engineering and is currently working at an up-and-coming technology company.

Luis was one of the many young people who benefited from the DACA program, which allowed him to work legally and live without the constant fear of deportation. However, his DACA permit is about to expire, and he is seriously considering renewal.

What would be the advantages of renewing your DACA?

1. Continued Employment: By renewing his DACA, Luis ensures his eligibility to continue working legally in the U.S. This not only means keeping your current job and salary, but also the possibility of advancing in your career, taking on greater responsibilities, and contributing financially to your community and family.
2. Protection from Deportation: With his DACA renewed, Luis can live without the constant fear of being deported to Guatemala, a country he has not called home in nearly two decades. This peace of mind is invaluable to him and his family, allowing them to plan their future with greater security and stability.
3. Access to Education and Scholarships: Although Luis has already graduated from college, he is considering pursuing a graduate degree. Renewing your DACA allows you to access more scholarship opportunities and educational programs that would otherwise be out of reach due to your immigration status.
4. Driver’s License and Social Security: Renewing your DACA means that Luis can continue to have a valid driver’s license and Social Security number. This not only facilitates their mobility and access to services, but also contributes to their credit history and access to financial services.
5. Authorized Travel: Although DACA does not provide a direct path to citizenship, it does provide the ability to request permission to travel abroad for humanitarian, educational or employment purposes. Renewing his DACA could open up the opportunity for Luis to travel outside the U.S. for the first time in years, whether to study, work or visit relatives.

For Luis, and for many young Guatemalans in similar situations, renewing DACA goes beyond a simple bureaucratic process.

It is a decision that affects every aspect of your life, from your personal safety and emotional well-being to your professional development and contributions to U.S. society. DACA renewal represents the opportunity to continue building your future in the U.S., the country you call home.