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The Form I-821D, officially known as the Consideration of Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA), is a critical component for many individuals who arrived in the United States as children. This form serves as a formal request for deferred action status, offering temporary relief from deportation to eligible individuals. In addition to the primary purpose of requesting deferred action, the I-821D also requires applicants to submit Form I-765, which is needed for employment authorization. Applicants must confirm they are not currently in immigration detention and may also be required to provide various personal information, including their full legal name, addresses, and immigration history. The form includes specific sections related to educational and employment guidelines that applicants must meet, as well as inquiries about criminal background, which can impact eligibility. It is important for applicants to carefully complete all parts of the form and provide accurate and truthful information, as errors or omissions could result in delays or denials. By understanding the key aspects of the Form I-821D, individuals can navigate the application process more effectively and increase their chances for a favorable outcome.

I 821D Example

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Consideration of Deferred Action

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

for Childhood Arrivals

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Department of Homeland Security

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services

 

 

 

A-

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Receipt

 

 

For

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

USCIS

 

Case ID:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Use

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Requestor interviewed

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Only

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

on

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Returned:

/

/

/

 

Relocated

Received:

/

/

 

 

Remarks

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Resubmitted:

 

 

/ /

 

 

/

 

Sent:

 

 

 

 

/

/

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

To Be Completed

 

by an Attorney or

 

 

Select this box if Form G-28 is attached to

 

 

 

Accredited Representative, if any.

 

 

represent the requestor.

USCIS

Form I-821D

OMB No. 1615-0124

Expires 03/31/2023

Action Block

Attorney State Bar Number (if any):

START HERE - Type or print in black ink. Read Form I-821D Instructions for information on how to complete this form.

Part 1. Information About You (For Initial and

Renewal Requests)

I am not in immigration detention and I have included Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization, and Form I-765WS, Form I-765 Worksheet; and

I am requesting:

1.Initial Request - Consideration of Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals

OR

2.Renewal Request - Consideration of Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals

AND

For this Renewal request, my most recent period of Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals expires on

(mm/dd/yyyy)

Removal Proceedings Information

5.Are you NOW or have you EVER been in removal proceedings, or do you have a removal order issued in any other context (for example, at the border or within the United States by an immigration agent)?

Yes No

NOTE: The term “removal proceedings” includes exclusion or deportation proceedings initiated before April 1, 1997; an Immigration and Nationality Act (INA) section 240 removal proceeding; expedited removal; reinstatement of a final order of exclusion, deportation, or removal; an INA section 217 removal after admission under the Visa Waiver Program; or removal as a criminal alien under INA section 238.

If you answered "Yes" to Item Number 5., you must select a box below indicating your current status or outcome of your removal proceedings.

Full Legal Name

3.a. Family Name

(Last Name)

3.b. Given Name

(First Name)

3.c. Middle Name

U.S. Mailing Address (Enter the same address on Form I-765)

4.a. In Care Of Name (if applicable)

4.b.

Street Number

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

and Name

 

 

 

 

 

4.c.

Apt.

 

 

 

 

 

Ste.

 

Flr.

 

4.d.

City or Town

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

4.e.

State

 

 

 

4.f. ZIP Code

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Status or outcome:

5.a.

Currently in Proceedings (Active)

5.b.

Currently in Proceedings (Administratively Closed)

5.c.

Terminated

5.d.

Subject to a Final Order

5.e.

Other. Explain in Part 8. Additional Information.

5.f. Most Recent Date of Proceedings

(mm/dd/yyyy)

5.g. Location of Proceedings

Form I-821D Edition 08/31/21

Page 1 of 7

Part 1. Information About You (For Initial and

Renewal Requests) (continued)

Other Information

6.Alien Registration Number (A-Number) (if any)

A-

7.U.S. Social Security Number (if any)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

8.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Date of Birth

(mm/dd/yyyy)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

9.

Gender

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Male

 

Female

10.a. City/Town/Village of Birth

10.b. Country of Birth

11.Current Country of Residence

12.Country of Citizenship or Nationality

13.Marital Status

Married Widowed Single Divorced

Other Names Used (If Applicable)

If you need additional space, use Part 8. Additional Information.

14.a. Family Name (Last Name)

14.b. Given Name

(First Name)

14.c. Middle Name

Processing Information

15.Ethnicity (Select only one box)

Hispanic or Latino

Not Hispanic or Latino

16.Race (Select all applicable boxes)

White

Asian

Black or African American

American Indian or Alaska Native

Native Hawaiian or Other Pacific Islander

17.

Height

Feet

 

Inches

18.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Weight

 

Pounds

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

19.Eye Color (Select only one box)

Black

Blue

Brown

Gray

Green

Hazel

Maroon

Pink

Unknown/Other

20.Hair Color (Select only one box)

Bald (No hair)

Black

Blond

Brown

Gray

Red

Sandy

White

Unknown/

 

 

Other

Part 2. Residence and Travel Information (For

Initial and Renewal Requests)

1.I have been continuously residing in the U.S. since at least

June 15, 2007, up to the present time.

Yes

No

 

NOTE: If you departed the United States for some period of time before your 16th birthday and returned to the United States on or after your 16th birthday to begin your current period of continuous residence, and if this is an initial request, submit evidence that you established residence in the United States prior to 16 years of age as set forth in the instructions to this form.

For Initial Requests: List your current address and, to the best of your knowledge, the addresses where you resided since the date of your initial entry into the United States to present.

For Renewal Requests: List only the addresses where you resided since you submitted your last Form I-821D that was approved.

If you require additional space, use Part 8. Additional

Information.

Form I-821D Edition 08/31/21

Page 2 of 7

Part 2. Residence and Travel Information (For

Initial and Renewal Requests) (continued)

Present Address

 

 

 

 

 

 

2.a.

Dates at this residence (mm/dd/yyyy)

 

From ►

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

To ►

Present

2.b.

Street Number

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

and Name

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

2.c.

Apt.

 

 

 

 

Ste.

Flr.

 

 

2.d.

City or Town

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

2.e.

 

 

 

2.f. ZIP Code

 

State

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Address 1

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

3.a.

Dates at this residence (mm/dd/yyyy)

 

From ►

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

To ►

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

3.b.

Street Number

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

and Name

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

3.c.

Apt.

 

 

 

 

Ste.

Flr.

 

 

3.d.

City or Town

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

3.e.

 

 

 

 

 

3.f. ZIP Code

 

 

 

State

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Address 2

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

4.a.

Dates at this residence (mm/dd/yyyy)

 

From ►

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

To ►

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

4.b.

Street Number

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

and Name

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

4.c.

Apt.

 

 

Ste.

Flr.

 

 

4.d.

City or Town

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

4.e.

 

 

 

4.f. ZIP Code

 

 

State

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Address 3

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

5.a.

Dates at this residence (mm/dd/yyyy)

 

From ►

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

To ►

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

5.b.

Street Number

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

and Name

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

5.c.

 

 

 

Apt.

Ste.

Flr.

 

 

5.d.

City or Town

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

5.e.

State

 

 

 

5.f. ZIP Code

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Travel Information

For Initial Requests: List all of your absences from the United States since June 15, 2007.

For Renewal Requests: List only your absences from the United States since you submitted your last Form I-821D that was approved.

If you require additional space, use Part 8. Additional

Information.

Departure 1

 

 

6.a.

 

 

Departure Date

(mm/dd/yyyy)

 

6.b.

 

 

 

 

 

Return Date

(mm/dd/yyyy)

 

6.c.

 

 

Reason for Departure

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Departure 2

 

 

7.a.

 

 

 

Departure Date

(mm/dd/yyyy)

 

7.b.

 

 

 

 

 

Return Date

(mm/dd/yyyy)

 

7.c.

 

 

Reason for Departure

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

8.Have you left the United States without advance parole on

 

or after August 15, 2012?

Yes

No

 

 

 

9.a.

What country issued your last passport?

 

 

9.b.

 

 

 

 

Passport Number

 

 

9.c.

 

 

 

 

Passport Expiration Date

 

 

 

(mm/dd/yyyy)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

10.Border Crossing Card Number (if any)

Part 3. For Initial Requests Only

1.I initially arrived and established residence in the U.S.

prior to 16 years of age.

Yes

No

 

2.Date of Initial Entry into the United States (on or about)

(mm/dd/yyyy)

3.Place of Initial Entry into the United States

Form I-821D Edition 08/31/21

Page 3 of 7

Part 3. For Initial Requests Only (continued)

4.Immigration Status on June 15, 2012 (e.g., No Lawful Status, Status Expired, Parole Expired)

5.a. Were you EVER issued an Arrival-Departure Record

 

(Form I-94, I-94W, or I-95)?

Yes

No

 

5.b. If you answered "Yes" to Item Number 5.a., provide your Form I-94, I-94W, or I-95 number (if available).

5.c. If you answered "Yes" to Item Number 5.a., provide the date your authorized stay expired, as shown on Form I-94, I-94W, or I-95 (if available).

(mm/dd/yyyy)

Education Information

6.Indicate how you meet the education guideline (e.g., Graduated from high school, Received a general educational development (GED) certificate or equivalent state-authorized exam, Currently in school)

7.Name, City, and State of School Currently Attending or Where Education Received

8.Date of Graduation (e.g., Receipt of a Certificate of Completion, GED certificate, other equivalent state- authorized exam) or, if currently in school, date of last attendance. (mm/dd/yyyy)

Military Service Information

9.Were you a member of the U.S. Armed Forces or U.S.

Coast Guard?

Yes

No

 

If you answered "Yes" to Item Number 9., you must provide responses to Item Numbers 9.a. - 9.d.

9.a. Military Branch

9.b. Service Start Date (mm/dd/yyyy)

9.c. Discharge Date (mm/dd/yyyy)

9.d. Type of Discharge

Part 4. Criminal, National Security, and Public

Safety Information (For Initial and Renewal

Requests)

If any of the following questions apply to you, use Part 8. Additional Information to describe the circumstances and include a full explanation.

1.Have you EVER been arrested for, charged with, or convicted of a felony or misdemeanor, including incidents handled in juvenile court, in the United States? Do not include minor traffic violations unless they were alcohol-

or drug-related.

Yes

No

 

If you answered “Yes,” you must include a certified court disposition, arrest record, charging document, sentencing record, etc., for each arrest, unless disclosure is prohibited under state law.

2.Have you EVER been arrested for, charged with, or convicted of a crime in any country other than the United

States?

Yes

No

 

If you answered "Yes," you must include a certified court disposition, arrest record, charging document, sentencing record, etc., for each arrest.

3.Have you EVER engaged in, do you continue to engage in, or plan to engage in terrorist activities?

Yes No

4.Are you NOW or have you EVER been a member of a

gang?

Yes

No

 

5.Have you EVER engaged in, ordered, incited, assisted, or otherwise participated in any of the following:

5.a. Acts involving torture, genocide, or human trafficking?

 

 

Yes

No

5.b.

Killing any person?

Yes

No

5.c.

Severely injuring any person?

Yes

No

5.d.

Any kind of sexual contact or relations with any person

 

who was being forced or threatened?

Yes

No

 

 

6.Have you EVER recruited, enlisted, conscripted, or used any person to serve in or help an armed force or group

while such person was under age 15?

Yes

No

7.Have you EVER used any person under age 15 to take part in hostilities, or to help or provide services to people

in combat?

Yes

No

Form I-821D Edition 08/31/21

Page 4 of 7

Part 5. Statement, Certification, Signature, and Contact Information of the Requestor (For Initial and Renewal Requests)

NOTE: Select the box for either Item Number 1.a. or 1.b.

1.a. I can read and understand English, and have read and understand each and every question and instruction on this form, as well as my answer to each question.

1.b. The interpreter named in Part 6. has read to me each and every question and instruction on this form, as well as my answer to each question, in

,

a language in which I am fluent. I understand each and every question and instruction on this form as translated to me by my interpreter, and have provided true and correct responses in the language indicated above.

Part 6. Contact Information, Certification, and

Signature of the Interpreter (For Initial and

Renewal Requests)

Interpreter's Full Name

Provide the following information concerning the interpreter: 1.a. Interpreter's Family Name (Last Name)

1.b. Interpreter's Given Name (First Name)

2.Interpreter's Business or Organization Name (if any)

Interpreter's Mailing Address

Requestor's Certification

I certify, under penalty of perjury under the laws of the United States of America, that the foregoing is true and correct and that copies of documents submitted are exact photocopies of unaltered original documents. I understand that I may be required to submit original documents to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) at a later date. I also understand that knowingly and willfully providing materially false information on this form is a federal felony punishable by a fine, imprisonment up to 5 years, or both, under 18 U.S.C. section 1001. Furthermore, I authorize the release of any information from my records that USCIS may need to reach a determination on my deferred action request.

3.a. Street Number

and Name

3.b. Apt. Ste. 3.c. City or Town 3.d. State

3.f. Province

3.g. Postal Code

3.h. Country

Flr.

3.e. ZIP Code

2.a. Requestor's Signature

2.b. Date of Signature (mm/dd/yyyy)

Requestor's Contact Information

3.Requestor's Daytime Telephone Number

4.Requestor's Mobile Telephone Number

5.Requestor's Email Address

Interpreter's Contact Information

4.Interpreter's Daytime Telephone Number

5.Interpreter's Email Address

Form I-821D Edition 08/31/21

Page 5 of 7

Part 6. Contact Information, Certification, and Signature of the Interpreter (For Initial and

Preparer's Mailing Address

Renewal Requests) (continued)

Interpreter's Certification

I certify that:

 

I am fluent in English and

which

is the same language provided in Part 5., Item Number 1.b.;

I have read to this requestor each and every question and instruction on this form, as well as the answer to each question, in the language provided in Part 5., Item Number 1.b.; and

The requestor has informed me that he or she understands each and every instruction and question on the form, as well as the answer to each question.

3.a. Street Number

and Name

3.b. Apt. Ste. 3.c. City or Town 3.d. State

3.f. Province

3.g. Postal Code

3.h. Country

Flr.

3.e. ZIP Code

6.a. Interpreter's Signature

6.b. Date of Signature (mm/dd/yyyy)

Part 7. Contact Information, Declaration, and Signature of the Person Preparing this Request, If Other than the Requestor (For Initial and Renewal Requests)

Preparer's Full Name

Provide the following information concerning the preparer: 1.a. Preparer's Family Name (Last Name)

1.b. Preparer's Given Name (First Name)

2.Preparer's Business or Organization Name

Preparer's Contact Information

4.Preparer's Daytime Telephone Number

5.Preparer's Fax Number

6.Preparer's Email Address

Preparer's Declaration

I declare that I prepared this Form I-821D at the requestor's behest, and it is based on all the information of which I have knowledge.

7.a. Preparer's Signature

7.b. Date of Signature (mm/dd/yyyy)

NOTE: If you need extra space to complete any item within this request, see the next page for Part 8. Additional

Information.

Form I-821D Edition 08/31/21

Page 6 of 7

Part 8. Additional Information (For Initial and

Renewal Requests)

If you need extra space to complete any item within this request, use the space below. You may also make copies of this page to complete and file with this request. Include your name and A-Number (if any) at the top of each sheet of paper; indicate the Page Number, Part Number, and Item Number to which your answer refers; and sign and date each sheet.

4.a. Page Number 4.b. Part Number 4.c. Item Number

4.d.

Full Legal Name

1.a. Family Name

(Last Name)

1.b. Given Name

(First Name)

1.c. Middle Name

2.A-Number (if any)

A-

3.a. Page Number 3.b. Part Number 3.c. Item Number

3.d.

5.a. Page Number 5.b. Part Number 5.c. Item Number

5.d.

Form I-821D Edition 08/31/21

Page 7 of 7

Form Characteristics

Fact Name Fact Details
Purpose The I-821D form is for individuals seeking Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) status.
Eligibility Applicants must have arrived in the U.S. before age 16 and have continuously resided since June 15, 2007.
Renewal Requirement For renewals, applicants must state the expiration date of their most recent DACA status.
Associated Forms Form I-765 (for employment authorization) must be submitted with the I-821D.
Review Process Applications are reviewed by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), which determines eligibility.
Legal Assistance Attorneys or accredited representatives can assist in completing the form, as indicated by Form G-28.
Submission Format The form must be filled out in black ink or typed to ensure clarity.
Criminal Background Applicants must disclose any criminal history; certain incidents may affect eligibility.
Filing Fee There is a filing fee for the I-821D form, which is subject to change based on USCIS guidelines.
Governing Law DACA is governed under the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA) and various federal regulations.

Guidelines on Utilizing I 821D

Completing the I-821D form is an essential step in the application process. Collect all necessary personal documents and ensure you have a clear understanding of your residential and travel history. It may be helpful to review the form instructions prior to filling it out to avoid any mistakes.

  1. Download the form: Obtain the I-821D form from the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) website.
  2. Complete Part 1: Provide your full legal name, U.S. mailing address, and indicate if this is an initial or renewal request. Include any removal proceedings information if applicable.
  3. Fill in your personal information: Enter your Alien Registration Number (if available), date of birth, gender, country of birth, and current country of residence.
  4. List other names used: If you have used any other names, include them in the designated section.
  5. Indicate your ethnicity and race: Select your ethnicity and race as specified in the form.
  6. Provide educational details: Describe how you meet educational guidelines and include the name of your school if applicable.
  7. Address your residence and travel history: Detail your current address and any previous addresses. Include information on travels outside the U.S., particularly since June 15, 2007 (for initial requests) or since your last Form I-821D was approved (for renewals).
  8. Complete military service information: If applicable, include details regarding your service in the U.S. Armed Forces or U.S. Coast Guard.
  9. Answer criminal and security questions: Respond honestly to questions regarding any past legal issues or affiliations.
  10. Affirm your understanding: Indicate whether you understand English or if an interpreter assisted you, and complete the certification section.
  11. Sign and date the form: Make sure to sign and date your application before submitting it.
  12. Submit the form: Send your completed form to the appropriate USCIS mailing address, ensuring all necessary documentation is included.

After submitting your I-821D form, you will wait for USCIS to process your application. Keep an eye on your mail for any response or requests for additional information. It’s crucial to track the submission to ensure that you receive updates regarding your application status.

What You Should Know About This Form

What is the I-821D form?

The I-821D form, also known as the Consideration of Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA), is a request used by individuals who arrived in the U.S. as children and meet certain criteria. This form allows eligible individuals to seek protection from deportation and obtain a work permit in the U.S. It is primarily aimed at young people who have continuously lived in the United States since June 15, 2007, and who meet specific educational or military service conditions.

Who is eligible to apply for DACA using the I-821D form?

To be eligible for DACA, individuals must have arrived in the U.S. before they turned 16, lived continuously in the country since June 15, 2007, and be no older than 30 years as of June 15, 2012. Additionally, applicants cannot have any felony convictions or certain misdemeanors, and they must be currently in school, have graduated, or be honorably discharged from the U.S. Armed Forces. Each person must also meet specific residency and travel requirements.

What information do I need to provide on the I-821D form?

The form asks for personal information including your name, address, date of birth, and country of citizenship. You must also provide details about your immigration history and any criminal history if applicable. If you have traveled outside the U.S., you will need to include information about those trips as well. Collecting accurate and comprehensive information is crucial to avoid delays in processing.

What happens after I submit the I-821D form?

Once submitted, the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) will process your application. You may be scheduled for an interview or receive a request for additional information if necessary. It’s essential to keep track of your application status and respond promptly to any correspondence from USCIS. Approval or denial of your request will be communicated via mail.

Can I renew my DACA status using the I-821D form?

Yes, individuals currently with DACA status can renew it by submitting the I-821D form again. It is important to file for renewal before your current DACA status expires. The renewal application will follow a similar process as the initial application, and you must continue to meet the eligibility criteria.

What should I do if my I-821D request is denied?

If your request is denied, you will receive a notice explaining the reason for the denial. You may have options for appeal or re-application, depending on the circumstances of your case. It is recommended to seek assistance from an immigration attorney or accredited representative to explore your options for moving forward.

Common mistakes

Filling out the I-821D form, which is essential for the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) process, can be complicated. Many individuals make mistakes that can delay their applications. Here are ten common errors.

One of the biggest mistakes is not reading the instructions carefully. The instructions provide vital information on how to fill out the form correctly. Ignoring these can lead to incorrect answers or missing information.

Another frequent error involves entering the wrong dates. For example, applicants often misstate their birth dates or the dates they entered the U.S. Such inaccuracies can cause delays or even denials of the application.

Many applicants forget to include their Alien Registration Number if they have one. This number is crucial for identifying immigration records. Leaving it out could lead to confusion during the processing of your application.

Providing an incomplete address is another misstep. It's essential to fill in every part of your mailing address, including any apartment or suite numbers. Missing details can result in important documents being sent to the wrong place.

Some applicants do not indicate their immigration status accurately. Misrepresenting or failing to disclose your current legal status may significantly harm your case. Always be honest and detailed in this section.

Submitting the form without required supporting documents is a serious mistake. Forms I-765 and I-765WS, for instance, should be included with your application. The absence of these forms can lead to immediate rejection.

Failing to sign the application is surprisingly common. A signature is needed to confirm that the information provided is true and correct. An unsigned form will not be accepted by USCIS.

People often overlook the need for translations of supporting documents if they're in a language other than English. Providing properly translated documents is crucial. Failure to do so may cause delays as USCIS requests the translations.

Lastly, many applicants forget to follow up on their applications. Not keeping track of the status can result in missed deadlines for responding to USCIS requests for additional information. Regular check-ins can help keep your application on track.

By avoiding these mistakes, applicants can improve their chances of receiving positive outcomes in their DACA applications. Always take the time to review your form before submission to ensure accuracy and completeness.

Documents used along the form

The I-821D form, used for the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program, requires several other forms and documents to complete the application process. Below is a list of common documents often submitted alongside the I-821D form.

  • I-765: This is the Application for Employment Authorization. Applicants use it to request the right to work in the U.S. if their DACA is approved.
  • I-765WS: This is the I-765 Worksheet. It helps applicants provide the necessary details regarding their economic needs to support the I-765.
  • Evidentiary Documents: This includes proof of continuous residence in the U.S. since June 15, 2007. Examples may include school records, medical records, or utility bills.
  • Passport Copies: Applicants must submit copies of their current and expired passports to confirm identity and nationality.
  • Birth Certificate: A copy of the birth certificate is often required to establish identity and age.
  • Social Security Card: If available, a copy of the Social Security card proves eligibility to work and is essential for processing the application.
  • Criminal Records: If applicable, certified court documents may be needed if the applicant has a history of arrests or convictions.
  • Form G-28: This is a Notice of Entry of Appearance as Attorney or Accredited Representative. If individuals have legal representation, this form signifies that the attorney will communicate with USCIS on their behalf.
  • Identity Documents: Various forms of ID, such as a driver's license or state ID, help establish identity and residency.
  • Affidavits: Personal affidavits from friends or family can support claims of residence in the U.S. and provide evidence of continuous presence.

Submitting these forms and documents along with the I-821D helps ensure a complete application. This completeness can positively influence the outcome of the DACA request. Always remember to check current requirements, as they can change over time.

Similar forms

  • Form I-765: Application for Employment Authorization. This form accompanies the I-821D for individuals seeking to work in the U.S. under Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA). Both forms require personal information and the indication of eligibility based on residency and immigration status.

  • Form I-765WS: Worksheet for Application for Employment Authorization. This form is submitted alongside the I-765 to provide financial information. Both documents assess eligibility for work authorization, requiring proof of economic need related to the applicant's current circumstances.

  • Form I-9: Employment Eligibility Verification. The I-9 is used by employers to verify an employee’s eligibility to work in the U.S. Like the I-821D, it involves confirming immigration status, although it is completed after work authorization has been granted.

  • Form N-400: Application for Naturalization. This form is for individuals seeking U.S. citizenship. Both the I-821D and N-400 require extensive personal history, including residency in the U.S., but the N-400 involves a path to permanent legal status while the I-821D pertains to temporary deferred action.

Dos and Don'ts

When filling out the I-821D form, there are essential dos and don'ts that can help ensure your application is processed smoothly.

  • Do read the instructions carefully. Each section has specific requirements that are crucial for your request.
  • Do provide complete and accurate information. Failing to include necessary details can lead to delays or rejections.
  • Do use black ink. This helps maintain clarity and readability in your submission.
  • Don’t rush through the form. Taking your time can minimize mistakes and ensure accuracy.
  • Don’t submit the form without all required documents. Ensure everything needed is included to avoid complications.

Pay attention to each of these points to improve your chances of a successful application. Being thorough can save you time and stress down the line.

Misconceptions

  • Misconception 1: The I-821D form guarantees legal status.
  • Many people believe that submitting the I-821D form means they will automatically receive legal status in the United States. However, this form is only a request for consideration of deferred action for childhood arrivals (DACA). It's important to remember that DACA does not provide legal status or a path to citizenship; instead, it offers temporary relief from deportation for eligible individuals.

  • Misconception 2: You must have a job to apply for DACA.
  • Some individuals think that employment is a prerequisite for completing the I-821D form. Although the form requires an application for employment authorization (Form I-765), having a job at the time of application is not mandatory. What matters is that applicants can meet the educational requirements or have been in school.

  • Misconception 3: Past legal issues disqualify you from DACA.
  • There is a belief that any past arrests or criminal history automatically disqualifies an applicant from receiving DACA. While certain serious criminal offenses can jeopardize eligibility, not all arrests result in disqualification. Each case is evaluated on an individual basis; thus, individuals with minor offenses may still qualify.

  • Misconception 4: DACA recipients are not allowed to travel outside the U.S.
  • Many assume that DACA recipients cannot leave the country at all. However, travel may be possible if the recipient applies for advance parole, allowing them to travel for specific reasons, such as education, employment, or humanitarian purposes. Yet, it’s essential to know that traveling without advance parole can lead to being barred from returning to the U.S.

Key takeaways

Filling out the I-821D form, which is used to apply for Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA), is a crucial step for many individuals seeking to secure their status in the U.S. Here are some essential points to consider when completing the form:

  • Be Thorough and Accurate: Ensure all information is complete and accurate. Missing or incorrect information can lead to delays or even denials in your application.
  • Gather Required Documents: Prepare necessary documentation such as Form I-765 (Application for Employment Authorization) and Form I-765WS (Form I-765 Worksheet) before starting the I-821D form.
  • Continuous Residence: Confirm you have resided in the U.S. since at least June 15, 2007, as this is a key eligibility requirement for DACA.
  • Legal Representation: If needed, consider obtaining legal advice or representation. An attorney may help address complex situations, especially if you have a complicated immigration history.
  • Follow Submission Guidelines: Pay attention to submission guidelines, including filing deadlines and sending your application to the correct USCIS address. Late or improperly filed forms may be rejected.