On September 5, 2017, the Trump administration announced the beginning of the end for the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program. While this news was deeply unsettling, there are important details to understand—and in some cases, you may still be able to extend your stay legally.

If you currently have DACA and a work permit under DACA, both will remain valid until their expiration date. However, as of the announcement date, no new applications for first-time applicants are being accepted. Pending first-time applications already submitted before September 5, 2017, will still be processed.

To confirm your expiration date, check your I-795 approval notice and the bottom of your Employment Authorization Document (EAD). If you take no action, your protections and work authorization will end on that date.

If your DACA and work permit expire between now and March 5, 2018, you may still be eligible for an extension. You must submit your two-year renewal application by Thursday, October 5, 2017. Acting quickly is critical, as this deadline is firm. Successful renewal can grant you an additional two years of protections and work authorization.

There remains some hope that Congress will pass the DREAM Act or another immigration reform to help DACA recipients, but there is no guarantee. Until then, the safest step is to secure your renewal before the deadline.

If your DACA and work authorization will expire within the next six months, call Harter & Schottland, PC, immediately at 847-546-0022. Our consultations are free, and we can help you take the necessary steps before time runs out.

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