If you currently have DACA (Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals), renewing your status on time is essential to maintain your work permit, avoid gaps in employment, and stay protected from deportation. Many people search online for “How to renew DACA,” “DACA renewal requirements,” or “DACA renewal process,” so this guide breaks everything down into simple steps to help you understand what to expect.
Important Note: USCIS recommends filing your DACA renewal 150–120 days before your current DACA expires.
1. Confirm That You Are Eligible to Renew DACA
Before filing, make sure you still meet the DACA renewal eligibility requirements. In general, you must:
- Have previously been approved for DACA
- Not have left the U.S. without advance parole since your last approval
- Not have been convicted of certain crimes
- Continue to meet the original DACA guidelines
At our office, we review your immigration and criminal history to confirm that you still qualify before submitting anything to USCIS.
2. Gather Your Required Documents
To renew DACA, you will need:
- Your most recent DACA approval notice
- Your most recent EAD (work permit)
- Any documents related to new arrests or citations
- Updated biographical information
Our office provides each client with a personalized DACA renewal checklist, delivered by email and text message, along with reminders to help you stay on track.
3. Complete the Required USCIS Forms
To file a DACA renewal, you must submit:
- Form I‑821D (Consideration of Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals)
- Form I‑765 (Application for Employment Authorization)
- Form I‑765WS (Worksheet)
We prepare all forms for your review and signature, ensuring accuracy and compliance with current USCIS standards. This reduces the risk of delays or DACA renewal RFEs.
4. Pay & Verify the Filing Fee
USCIS requires a filing fee for DACA renewals. Because fees can change, you should always confirm the current DACA renewal fee by checking the USCIS Fee Schedule on the official USCIS website.
At our office, we verify the correct fee amount and payment method before filing to prevent rejections or delays.
5. Submit Your DACA Renewal Packet to USCIS
Once your forms and documents are ready, your packet is mailed to the correct USCIS lockbox facility.
Our office handles:
- Organizing your packet
- Ensuring all signatures are included
- Mailing to the correct address
- Tracking delivery and confirming receipt
6. Attend Your Biometrics Appointment (If Required)
Some applicants may be scheduled for biometrics. If so, you will receive an appointment notice with the date, time, and location.
We help clients understand what to expect and how to prepare.
7. Wait for USCIS to Process Your Case
Once your DACA renewal is filed, you must wait for USCIS to process your case. Processing times vary, and delays can occur depending on USCIS workload.
Important: Under current DHS policy, DACA recipients no longer receive an automatic extension of their Employment Authorization Document (EAD) when they file a renewal. This means:
- You cannot continue working if your EAD expires before USCIS approves your renewal.
- Your employer will require a valid, unexpired EAD to keep you on payroll.
- Filing early (150–120 days before expiration) is more important than ever to avoid gaps in employment.
Our office monitors your case, provides updates, and assists with any USCIS issues that may arise during processing.
8. Receive Your New DACA Approval and Work Permit
Once approved, USCIS will mail your new:
- DACA approval notice, and
- Employment Authorization Document (EAD)
This allows you to continue working legally and remain protected from deportation.
Need Help Renewing Your DACA? We’re Here to Assist.
Renewing DACA on time is critical — and submitting an incomplete or incorrect application can lead to delays or denial. Our office helps clients:
- Confirm eligibility
- Prepare all forms
- Gather required documents
- Avoid mistakes that cause delays
- Track the case from start to finish
For more information on How to Renew Your DACA Classification, a consultation is your next best step. Get the information and legal answers you need by calling (281) 777‑1236 today.
Common Questions We Can Help You With
- How do I renew my DACA?
- What do I need to renew my DACA?
- When should I renew my DACA?
- How early can I file my DACA renewal?
- What forms are required for DACA renewal?
- How long does DACA renewal take?
- What happens if my DACA expires before renewal is approved?
- Can I still renew DACA in 2026?
- Is DACA still available for renewals?
- How do I renew my DACA work permit?
- Can I work if my DACA EAD expires?
- Does DACA have an automatic work permit extension?
- How long does it take to get a new DACA work permit?
- What happens if my employer asks for a new EAD before my renewal is approved?
- How much does DACA renewal cost?
- What is the DACA renewal fee?
- Can I get a fee waiver for DACA renewal?
- Where do I check the current DACA filing fee?
- Does USCIS offer financial assistance for DACA renewals?
Call For A Free Consultation*
(281) 777-1236