Proposed rule on DACA

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has issued a proposed rule to preserve and strengthen the DACA program. The proposed rule maintains existing eligibility requirements for DACA, including requirements related to age of entry into the U.S., residential status, and education. The text of the proposed rule can be found here.

One notable change is that the new rule would allow an individual to request deferred action without applying for work authorization. By separating the two applications, DHS seeks to provide flexibility and reduced filing fees for DACA recipients who do not need to seek work authorization. 

The regulations will not go into effect until DHS publishes a final rule, following the 60-day comment period and approval by the Office of Management and Budget. At present, the federal government is blocked from approving new DACA applications following a July court decision, but individuals can still submit applications and DHS can process renewals. More information can be found on the USCIS website.

Stanford continues to stand in firm support of our DACA community, and we will continue to advocate for a legislative solution for our nation’s DACA recipients and undocumented youth. Resources for students are available at undocumented.stanford.edu. Any students needing assistance connecting with support resources related to DACA or undocumented status may also contact Dean of Students Mona Hicks at deanofstudents@stanford.edu.