California DACA Application Lawyer

Maison Law Immigration Lawyers can guide you through the process of applying for Deferred Action for Childhood Arrival (DACA) in California. DACA gives you an opportunity to live, study, and work in the U.S. without fear of deportation—but it doesn’t give you permanent legal status. If you’ve built your life here because of DACA and you want to keep that stability in place, our team can help. Set up a consultation today to learn more.

Why Would I Need a Lawyer for a DACA Application?

You don’t have to have a lawyer to apply for DACA, but having one can make the process easier and less stressful. That’s where our team can step in and help you in a variety of different ways, like:

• Making sure your forms are filled out correctly
• Helping you organize and submit supporting documents
• Advising you on any tricky situations, like past immigration issues or minor criminal matters
• Giving peace of mind, so you don’t have to worry about small mistakes slowing things down or causing delays

Even if your case seems straightforward, we can catch issues you might miss and guide you through any requests or questions from USCIS. Essentially, we’re here to help the process be as smooth as possible–which can be difficult when dealing with something that changes as quickly as the DACA program.

What’s the Application Process Like With DACA?

Applying for DACA is about two things: meeting the requirements and then filling out the right paperwork. With that said, it’s not always straightforward, and there’s always the chance that things might get slowed down. But generally, here’s a look at how the application process works:

• Show you meet the requirements – To even be able to apply for DACA, you need to show that you:
  • Arrived in the U.S. before you turned 16
  • Have lived here continuously since June 15, 2007
  • Are under 31 years old as of June 15, 2012
  • Maintained a physical presence here as of June 15, 2012, and at the time of application
  • Had no legal status on June 15, 2012
  • Have no serious criminal history—no felonies, no major misdemeanors, and no three or more minor misdemeanors.
  • Are enrolled in school or have graduated high school, completed your GED, or are serving in the military.

• Fill out the forms – You’ll need:
  • Form I-821D (the main DACA application)
  • Form I-765 (to request a work permit).

Accuracy is important here, especially with personal information and dates.

• Gather your documents – Collect ID, school records, proof of arrival in the U.S., and any other supporting evidence. Even documents showing community involvement or employment history can strengthen your case.
• Pay the filing fee – USCIS charges a fee for processing. Check the current amount before you submit the forms.
• Submit your application – You can file online via a USCIS account or mail it to the proper address. Keep copies of everything for your records in case something comes up later.

Once submitted, USCIS might request additional documents, schedule fingerprinting, or ask for clarification on some points. Our team can help you with this part, or we can also help you if you’re renewing your application.

Renewal Process

If you’re already here under DACA, renewing your status is similar to the first-time application process, but obviously a little bit different. Here’s what you’ll need to do:

• File early – You’ll want to file your renewal 120–150 days (about 4–5 months) before your current DACA expires to avoid gaps in protection.
• Use the same forms – I-821D and I-765, plus the filing fee.
• Update your information – This is key. If anything has changed since your last application—like a new address, school, or job—make sure to include it.

Renewals are usually less complicated than first-time applications, but staying organized is key to maintaining your DACA status. And a big part of that is knowing what documentation you have.

What Information Can Help My DACA Application?

An important thing to know about the DACA program is that the USCIS maintains the sole discretion to approve or deny an application. That means, essentially, they decide applications on a case-by-case basis. So, strong supporting documents can really make a difference in a DACA application. Here’s what can really help your application:

• Proof of arrival – Anything that shows when you first came to the U.S., like old passports, school enrollment records, or medical records. These help establish the timeline USCIS needs to see.
• School records – Transcripts, enrollment certificates, or GED completion documents show your commitment to education and meet one of DACA’s key requirements.
• Military service records – If you’ve served in the U.S. Armed Forces or Coast Guard, including your service records can strengthen your application and meet the service or educational requirement.
• Community involvement – Volunteer work, club participation, sports, or awards show that you’re contributing to your community. This kind of evidence can make a big difference in discretionary decisions.
• Good character evidence – Letters from teachers, employers, or community leaders can highlight responsibility, reliability, and the positive role you play in your community.

All of these documents together help USCIS see the life you’ve built here. While meeting the requirements doesn’t automatically guarantee approval, strong, organized documentation gives your application the best chance. Think of it as telling your story in a way that shows not just that you qualify—but who you are and how you’re living, studying, and contributing in the U.S.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does DACA last?

It lasts two years at a time, so it’s important to renew a few months before it expires to avoid any gaps.

Can I lose my DACA status?

Yes. Status can be revoked if rules aren’t followed, you’re convicted of a crime, or federal policy changes. Staying on top of your renewal is important.

Can DACA lead to citizenship?

Not directly. DACA is temporary and doesn’t give you permanent status or citizenship. However, it does let you live, work, and study in the U.S., which can help if exploring other immigration paths.

Contact Maison Law Immigration Lawyers For Help With DACA in California

As a “dreamer,” DACA has allowed you to build a life in California. But things can change quickly. At Maison Law Immigration Lawyers, our team can help you understand the DACA application process and what you need to do to make sure your life here can move forward. Set up a consultation today to explore your options.