Homepage / Fill in a Valid I 821D Template
Jump Links

The I-821D form is crucial for individuals seeking consideration for Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA). This form allows eligible applicants to request deferred action, providing a temporary reprieve from deportation and enabling them to apply for work authorization. The form is divided into several sections that gather essential information. These include personal details, residency history, and whether the applicant has ever been involved in removal proceedings. Individuals applying for the first time or those seeking to renew their DACA status must include the proper documentation, including the I-765 application for Employment Authorization. The thoroughness of the I-821D not only helps in determining eligibility but also reflects the applicant's commitment to providing accurate and complete information. Key questions cover criminal history, immigration status on June 15, 2012, and educational background, all integral to assessing the requester's eligibility. Additionally, applicants must certify that their responses are true, acknowledging the legal implications of providing false information. Understanding the components of the I-821D form is essential for potential applicants navigating the complexities of the DACA process.

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

File Breakdown

Fact Name Description
Purpose The I-821D form is used to request consideration for Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA), which allows eligible undocumented immigrants who arrived in the U.S. as children to apply for protection from deportation and gain work authorization.
Eligibility Requirements To qualify for DACA, applicants must have arrived in the U.S. before their 16th birthday, have continuously lived in the country since June 15, 2007, and meet certain educational or military service criteria.
Governing Law The I-821D is governed by the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA), specifically under Section 212(d)(5) which pertains to the use of discretionary relief regarding deportation.
Form Validity The current version of the I-821D form was issued on August 31, 2021, and it expires on March 31, 2023. Applicants should ensure they are using the latest version during their submission.

Guide to Using I 821D

Filling out the I-821D form requires careful attention to detail. It is crucial to provide accurate information, as this form is part of the process for requesting deferred action. Make sure you have all your necessary documents ready before you begin. Follow these steps to complete the form correctly.

  1. Start by typing or printing in black ink at the top of the form.
  2. Enter your full legal name in the appropriate fields: last name, first name, and middle name.
  3. Fill in your complete U.S. mailing address, ensuring it matches the address you provide on Form I-765.
  4. Indicate if you have ever been in removal proceedings by selecting 'Yes' or 'No' under the relevant question. If 'Yes', choose the appropriate status or outcome.
  5. In the next section, input your Alien Registration Number (if you have one), U.S. Social Security Number (if applicable), date of birth, gender, and place of birth.
  6. Provide information about your current country of residence and your country of citizenship.
  7. List your marital status and any other names you may have used.
  8. For education, check how you meet the education guideline and provide the name and location of your school, if applicable.
  9. If you have traveled outside the U.S., provide details of your absences since June 15, 2007, including departure dates and reasons for leaving.
  10. Respond to questions regarding criminal history and national security concerns. Include detailed explanations in Part 8 if necessary.
  11. In Part 5, confirm your understanding of the form by selecting the appropriate box about your ability to read and understand English.
  12. Sign and date the form where indicated.
  13. Finally, provide your daytime and mobile telephone numbers, as well as your email address for USCIS communication.

Get Answers on I 821D

What is Form I-821D?

Form I-821D is a request for Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA), a program designed to allow individuals who arrived in the U.S. as children to remain in the country without fear of deportation. The form can be used for initial requests as well as for renewals of DACA status.

Who is eligible to file Form I-821D?

To be eligible for DACA, applicants must meet several criteria:

  • Must have arrived in the U.S. before turning 16.
  • Must have lived continuously in the U.S. since June 15, 2007.
  • Must have been under 31 years old as of June 15, 2012.
  • Must meet certain education or military service requirements.
  • Must not have felonies, significant misdemeanors, or pose a threat to national security.

What documents should I submit with Form I-821D?

When submitting Form I-821D, you should include the following:

  1. Proof of identity and eligibility (such as a passport or birth certificate).
  2. Evidence of continuous residence in the U.S. since June 15, 2007.
  3. Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization, if you wish to apply for a work permit.
  4. Form I-765WS, which details your economic need.

Can I apply for DACA if I have a criminal record?

Having a criminal record can impact your eligibility for DACA. If you have been arrested, charged, or convicted of significant crimes, it may disqualify you. However, each case is unique, and it is advisable to consult with an immigration attorney to assess your specific situation.

How long does it take for the application to be processed?

Processing times for Form I-821D can vary significantly. Generally, it can take several months for U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) to process the application and provide a decision. You can track your case online once you receive your receipt notice.

What happens if my DACA request is approved?

If your DACA request is approved, you will receive authorization to stay in the U.S. and may apply for work authorization. This status is renewable every two years, as long as you continue to meet eligibility criteria.

What if my DACA request is denied?

If your request for DACA is denied, you will receive a notice explaining the reasons. Unfortunately, there is no appeal process, but you may be able to reapply if you believe you now meet the eligibility requirements. Speaking with an immigration attorney for guidance is strongly recommended.

Do I need an attorney to file Form I-821D?

While you are not required to have an attorney, it can be highly beneficial to consult one. An attorney can help ensure you complete the form accurately and provide guidance on gathering necessary documentation, increasing your chances of a successful application.

What is the filing fee for Form I-821D?

There is no fee required to file Form I-821D. However, if you are applying for work authorization by filing Form I-765, there will be a fee associated with that form unless you qualify for a fee waiver.

Common mistakes

When applying for Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) using Form I-821D, people often make mistakes that can jeopardize their applications. Here are ten common missteps to watch out for:

First, many applicants forget to read the instructions thoroughly before they start filling out the form. Understanding the guidelines and requirements can make a significant difference in the accuracy of your application. Skipping this crucial step can lead to unnecessary delays.

Next, it’s crucial to ensure all dates are accurate. Mistakes in dates, such as the date of birth or the dates of residence, can lead to confusion and possibly cause the application to be rejected. Every detail matters, so take your time when entering this information.

Another frequent error is failing to disclose all addresses of residence. For those applying for the first time, you need to list all addresses since your initial entry into the U.S. Even for renewal requests, it’s essential to provide your current address and any recent changes. Omitting this information can raise red flags.

Many people also forget to include necessary accompanying forms, such as the I-765 for employment authorization. Including these forms is mandatory and should not be overlooked. Leaving out required documents can halt the processing of your application.

Simplifying your answers can lead to problems. Applicants sometimes think they can skip certain questions or provide vague answers, especially in Section 4 regarding criminal history. Answer every question honestly and completely. Not doing so can be perceived as a lack of transparency.

Inaccurate information is another common pitfall. Whether due to misunderstanding or carelessness, giving incorrect details—like social security numbers or A-numbers—can create issues. Double-check all details to ensure they match the necessary documents.

Additionally, some applicants fail to sign and date the form before submission. A missing signature can result in an automatic denial of the application, so make sure that all necessary signatures are included.

Another mistake involves not providing copies of essential documents. Always include clear photocopies of any required supporting documents rather than the originals. This practice protects you in case your application needs to be reviewed multiple times.

Finally, missing deadlines is a crucial error that opponents must avoid. Applications for initial requests and renewals have specific timelines. Be mindful of these deadlines to ensure that your application isn’t rejected simply due to late submission.

By paying attention to these common mistakes, applicants can greatly improve their chances of successfully filing their I-821D forms. Taking the time to be meticulous can make a world of difference in achieving deferred action.

Documents used along the form

When submitting Form I-821D, which is used for requesting deferred action under the DACA program, it's often necessary to include additional documents. Each of these forms or documents plays a crucial role in supporting your application. Below is a brief overview of some common forms and documents that are frequently submitted alongside the I-821D.

  • Form I-765: This is the Application for Employment Authorization. It allows individuals to request permission to work in the U.S. while their DACA application is being processed.
  • Form I-765WS: This is the Form I-765 Worksheet. It provides additional information regarding economic necessity for employment authorization when filing Form I-765.
  • Form G-28: This form is used to designate an attorney or accredited representative to act on behalf of the applicant. Including this form can streamline communication with USICS.
  • Proof of Continuous Residence: Documents such as school records, medical records, or utility bills may be required to demonstrate that you have continuously lived in the U.S. since June 15, 2007.
  • Identification Documents: Copies of identification such as a passport, birth certificate, or driver's license may be needed to verify identity and residency.
  • Criminal Records: If applicable, certified court documents for any arrests or convictions must be included if these events have occurred.
  • Proof of Education: Information showing educational enrollment or graduation may be necessary, such as high school diplomas, transcripts, or GED certificates.
  • Immigration History Documents: If available, include any past immigration records such as Form I-94, which shows your entry into the U.S. and your visa status.

Each of these documents serves a specific purpose in supporting your application for deferred action under DACA. Always ensure that you carefully follow the instructions for each form and provide accurate information to avoid delays in your application process.

Similar forms

The I-821D form, officially known as the "Consideration of Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals," has similarities with several other immigration-related documents. Below is a list of seven forms that share particular characteristics or purposes with the I-821D:

  • Form I-765: This form is the application for employment authorization. Just like the I-821D, it is often filed by individuals seeking protection under DACA, allowing them to work legally while their status is under consideration.
  • Form I-130: The Petition for Alien Relative serves as a means for U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents to sponsor certain relatives for immigration. Similar to I-821D, it requires detailed personal information and proof of relationships.
  • Form I-485: This is the application to register permanent residence or adjust status. While I-821D focuses on deferred action, the I-485 allows individuals to apply for more permanent residency based on specific eligibility categories.
  • Form I-864: The Affidavit of Support is used by sponsors to demonstrate their ability to financially support a relative seeking immigration. It parallels the I-821D in the need for personal and financial details that support a claim for immigration benefits.
  • Form N-400: The Application for Naturalization enables permanent residents to apply for U.S. citizenship. Both forms require a comprehensive background check and personal history, although the N-400 is geared toward individuals who have held permanent resident status.
  • Form I-601: This is the Application for Waiver of Grounds of Inadmissibility. Like the I-821D, it provides a means for individuals to request relief from removal based on certain hardships, requiring detailed personal circumstances and supporting documentation.
  • Form G-28: This form is used for the Notice of Entry of Appearance as Attorney or Accredited Representative. Like the I-821D, it allows individuals to appoint an attorney or representative to assist with their immigration process, ensuring proper representation is documented.

Each of these forms complements or relates to the I-821D in terms of the immigration process, focusing on the essential personal information, required supporting documents, and specific eligibility criteria that must be met.

Dos and Don'ts

When filling out the I-821D form, it’s important to be thorough and accurate. Here are some things to consider.

  • Do: Use black ink when completing the form.
  • Do: Read all instructions carefully before starting.
  • Do: Double-check your answers for accuracy.
  • Do: Include any required additional documents.
  • Do: Submit your form before the deadline.
  • Don’t: Leave any questions blank unless instructed.
  • Don’t: Alter any documents or provide false information.
  • Don’t: Rush through the form; take your time.
  • Don’t: Forget to sign and date your application.

Misconceptions

  • Misconception 1: The I-821D form guarantees permanent residency.

    This form does not grant permanent residency. It is specifically designed for requesting deferred action under the DACA program, which is a temporary solution.

  • Misconception 2: All applications will be approved.

    Approval of the I-821D form is not guaranteed. Each application is evaluated on individual circumstances, including background checks and evidence provided.

  • Misconception 3: Submission of the form is enough to receive work authorization.

    Submitting the I-821D form is just the first step. You must also file Form I-765 to apply for employment authorization.

  • Misconception 4: There are no age limits to apply.

    This is incorrect. Applicants must have been under the age of 31 on June 15, 2012, and must have arrived in the U.S. before age 16.

  • Misconception 5: DACA will be available indefinitely.

    DACA is subject to change based on policy shifts. It is important to stay informed about any new developments regarding the program.

  • Misconception 6: Prior arrests disqualify you automatically.

    While criminal history can affect eligibility, not all arrests disqualify applicants. Each case is judged on its specific facts and context.

  • Misconception 7: You have to have a lawyer to submit the form.

    While assistance from legal professionals can be helpful, having a lawyer is not mandatory to submit the I-821D form. Individuals can complete it on their own.

Key takeaways

The Form I-821D, known as the Consideration of Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) form, is essential for individuals seeking deferred action status. Proper completion and submission of this form are key components of the process. Here are some vital takeaways regarding this form:

  • Eligibility Requirements: Ensure that you meet the eligibility criteria for DACA before submitting your request. This includes continuous residence in the U.S. since June 15, 2007, and being under 31 years old as of June 15, 2012.
  • Complete Required Sections: Accurately fill out all sections of the form, including personal information, travel history, educational background, and any criminal history. Any missing information may delay the processing.
  • Include Supporting Documents: Along with Form I-821D, submit Form I-765 for work authorization and any supporting documents that demonstrate eligibility, such as school records and proof of residency.
  • Renewal Requests: If you are renewing your DACA status, be sure to indicate your previous period of deferred action and provide information regarding any changes in your circumstances since your last application.