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Writer's pictureEdgar Aquino-Huerta

DACA Updates: What You Need to Know and How to Stay Empowered

Updated: 2 days ago


Did you know the future of DACA is at a critical crossroads? With legal challenges and changing political landscapes, staying informed is more important than ever for DACA recipients. Here’s what you need to know to protect your status, explore opportunities like Advance Parole, and get help with your DACA renewal through CATA.


DACA in 2024: Stay Prepared, Stay Informed


The Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program continues to be vital, but its future is uncertain. Advocacy for lasting protections, like a pathway to citizenship, is more critical than ever.


Key Tips for DACA Recipients:


  • Renew your status on time to avoid interruptions.

  • Monitor policy changes and deadlines through trusted sources.

  • Avoid misinformation and learn about opportunities like Advance Parole.


DACA Renewal Assistance at CATA


We are now accepting appointments to assist with filling out DACA renewal applications. CATA provides FREE guidance, but please note that application fees must still be paid by the applicant.


By Appointment Only: Call our office (856) 881-2507 to schedule your appointment.


What to Bring to Your Appointment:

  • Passport

  • Social Security Card

  • Work Permit

  • Your most recent DACA approval notice

  • Your previous DACA application (if you applied with CATA before, we already have it; otherwise, bring a copy)

  • Debit or credit card (the application is submitted online, and fees must be paid with a card)


Facing a DUI charge?


It’s important to seek advice from an attorney specializing in both immigration and criminal law before making any decisions. While a DUI in New Jersey is considered a traffic violation, it must still be disclosed on your DACA renewal application, and any errors could lead to serious consequences. Please note, this is general information and not legal advice.


Important:

  • If you’ve pleaded guilty without understanding the risks, you have up to five years to seek Post-Conviction Relief (PCR).

  • Protect your status by seeking proper legal guidance.


Explore Opportunities with Advance Parole


What is Advance Parole? Advance Parole allows DACA recipients to temporarily leave and lawfully return to the U.S. for humanitarian, educational, or employment purposes.


Benefits:

  • Reconnect with family.

  • Pursue academic or career opportunities.

  • Count your return as lawful entry, potentially aiding future residency applications.


Tips for Success:

  • Apply early and have a clear purpose (e.g., medical letters or university invitations). Your documents will most likely be written in your native language, so find someone to translate them into English. Follow Dreamer2gether's Facebook page, which has guides available.

  • Only travel with an approved Advance Parole document to avoid losing your DACA status.


What should DACA recipients never do when it comes to travel?


Only leave the U.S. with an approved Advance Parole document. Not doing so may result in losing DACA status and being barred from re-entry. If you are flying domestically, you can continue to use your driver’s license to travel, but remember that you will have to use your passport as of May 7th, 2025. So please renew your passports with time!


What are the risks of re-entering the U.S., and how can people prepare?


Even with Advance Parole, there’s a slight chance of being stopped by Customs and Border Protection (CBP). Always carry all documentation, including proof of your DACA status and Advance Parole approval.


Benefits vs. Drawbacks


What’s great about traveling on Advance Parole?


● It allows DACA recipients to travel abroad for opportunities otherwise unavailable.

● Returning with Advance Parole counts as lawful entry, which can sometimes help with adjusting to permanent residency in the future.


What are the downsides?


● Cost: The application fee is $575, plus potential travel costs.

● Restrictions: Only specific reasons for travel are accepted.

● Time limits: Advance Parole approvals are usually short-term and require precise planning. However, depending on your applications and reasons, you can also be eligible for multiple entries.


Is talking to an immigration lawyer necessary, or are there other options?


While it’s not mandatory, consulting an immigration attorney ensures the accuracy of your application and minimizes risks in case you believe you have something in your record. CATA can refer you to other organizations that can provide free service.


Pro tips to make the process easier:


● Apply early to account for processing delays.

● Keep detailed records of your application and supporting documents.

● You can schedule an INFO PASS appointment if you need to leave the country due to an emergency. However, there is no guarantee that your emergency Advance Parole request will be approved during the appointment. If it is not approved, the officer will return your Advance Parole packet and the filing fee and instruct you to apply by mail instead.


Stay Informed


Rapid changes in immigration policies mean you need reliable sources of information. Follow these platforms to stay informed and connected:


How Can CATA Help?


CATA supports DACA recipients by:

  • Offering FREE assistance with filling out DACA renewal applications.

  • Hosting workshops on Advance Parole and other immigration topics.

  • Connecting individuals with trusted legal resources.


Final Reminder: Whether renewing your DACA, exploring Advance Parole, or dealing with legal challenges, staying informed is your best defense. Together, we can advocate for stronger protections and more opportunities for DACA recipients.


Stay safe, stay informed, and take action! Contact CATA today to schedule your DACA renewal appointment.

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