DAPA FAQs

Do DAPA recipients qualify for public benefits?

DAPA recipients are not eligible for federal public benefits. That includes housing subsidies, food stamps, and financial aid. State benefits will depend on state law. The vast majority of states grant DAPA recipients with drivers licenses.

What happens if the DAPA application is rejected?

The USCIS will not share your personal information with any government agency when applications are rejected. This will include information about guardians and family members. This information, however, may be shared with agencies such as ICE and CBP for other purposes not related to removal, which may include:

• National security purposes. To investigate or prosecute a criminal offense. In order to detect or stop fraudulent claims. To contribute with considering a deferred action request.

Can I qualify for DAPA if I have been deported before?

You may need individual legal advice from a DAPA lawyer to find out. Some people who have been deported before qualified for DAPA. It all depends on the deportations timing and circumstances.

Do applicants have to show that they paid taxes in order to qualify or apply for DAPA?

President Obama didnt speak about paying taxes in his November 20, 2014 announcement. The requirements described dont include tax payments as an eligibility factor. The payment or nonpayment of taxes may be listed under the discretionary factors.

How much will the DAPA application cost?

This application costs the same as the fee for the DACA program, which is $465. This fee includes the work permit application, fingerprinting and the DAPA application.

How old a child has to be in order for the parent to apply?

There is no age limit. The child can be any age as long as he or she was born on or before November 20, 2014.

What should be done when the applicant is in detention?

The right staff person in the detention facility should be notified. ICE and CBP have been instructed to find people in custody who are eligible so that resources are not spend in vain. You or your DAPA lawyer can contact the Community and Detainee Helpline at 1-888-351-4024 or the Law Enforcement Support Center hotline at 1-855-448-6903. You can also send an e-mail to ERO.INFO@ice.dhs.gov.

When someone receives DAPA can he or she travel outside of US?

We dont know yet. There is not information about this currently available. The applicant should not leave the United States without advance parole before receiving DAPA. Information about whether or not a DAPA applicant qualifies for advance parole will be provided as soon as it becomes available.