Fee Exemptions for Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals: Part II

Steps to Request an Exemption from the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals Filing Fee
Step 1: You must:	Send a letter in English requesting the exemption. USCIS must be able to identify the individual who needs the exemption and the exemption category requested.                Attach documentation (copies are acceptable) supporting your request. The supporting documents must be in English or accompanied by a certified translation.                The letter must be signed by the individual requesting consideration for the fee exemption. If the individual needing the exception cannot sign, provide an explanation and evidence that the person who does sign is a parent or legal guardian.                Each person requesting to be exempt from paying the filing fee should submit their own letter. Multiple individuals should not be grouped into one letter.                Mail your request to: U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services Attn:  Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals Fee Exemption Request P.O. Box 75036 Washington, DC 20013
Step 2: USCIS will:	Review your letter and supporting documents to determine if you are in a circumstance to warrant an exemption.                Request additional evidence if needed.                Approve or deny your request.                Send you an approval or denial letter.
Step 3: You must:	If approved, attach a copy of the fee exemption approval letter to the front of your request package, which must include Forms I-821D, I-765 and I-765WS.                If denied, submit the $465 filing fee with your forms or resubmit your fee exemption request with corrections or additional documents.                File the Forms I-821D, I-765 and I-765WS according to the form instructions.

Deferred Action Directive F.A.Q.s: Part II

Are individuals who receive deferred action pursuant to the new directive eligible for employment authorization?

Yes. Pursuant to existing regulations, individuals who receive deferred action may apply for and may obtain employment authorization from USCIS provided they can demonstrate an economic necessity for their employment.


Does the process result in permanent lawful status for beneficiaries?

No. The grant of deferred action under this new directive does not provide an individual with permanent lawful status or a pathway to obtaining permanent lawful status. Only the Congress, acting through its legislative authority, can confer the right to permanent lawful status.


Why will deferred actions only be granted for two years?

Grants of deferred action will be issued in increments of two years. At the expiration of the two year period, the grant of deferred action can be renewed, pending a review of the individual case.


If an individual’s period of deferred action is extended, will individuals need to re-apply for an extension of their employment authorization?

Yes. If an individual applies for and receives an extension of the period for which he or she was granted deferred action, he or she must also request an extension of his or her employment authorization.