When to File Your DACA Renewal

USCIS recommends submitting your DACA renewal 150 to 120 days (5 to 4 months) before your current DACA expires. Filing in this window gives USCIS enough time to process your application before your current deferred action ends.

Do Not Wait Until the Last Minute

DACA processing times can vary from a few months to over a year depending on USCIS caseload and policy changes. Filing 5 months early protects you from a gap in your work authorization. If your DACA expires while your renewal is pending (and you filed on time), USCIS provides limited automatic continuation — but this is not guaranteed and you should not rely on it.

Forms and Fees

A DACA renewal requires two forms submitted together in the same package:

Renewal Filing Fee

$495

Covers both I-821D and I-765. Payable to U.S. Department of Homeland Security. No fee waiver available.

Biometrics Fee

$0

No biometrics fee for renewals. Biometrics may be required based on your case history, but USCIS will notify you separately.

Pay the fee by check or money order made out to "U.S. Department of Homeland Security." Do not send cash. If you have multiple forms in your package, you only need one check for the combined total.

Step-by-Step Renewal Process

  1. 1

    Download the Current Forms

    Download the most recent versions of Form I-821D and Form I-765 from uscis.gov. Check the edition date at the bottom of the form — USCIS periodically updates forms, and older versions may be rejected.

  2. 2

    Complete Form I-821D

    For renewals, answer only the questions that apply to you. Mark "Renewal" in Part 1. You do not need to re-establish your initial eligibility (arrival before age 16, continuous residency, etc.) — only significant changes in circumstances need to be addressed.

  3. 3

    Complete Form I-765

    In the "Eligibility Category" field, write "(c)(33)" — this is the DACA employment authorization category. Include your current A-Number (Alien Registration Number) from your existing EAD card.

  4. 4

    Gather Supporting Documents

    You need: two passport-style photos, a copy of your current EAD (front and back), a copy of your unexpired government-issued photo ID, and a check or money order for $495.

  5. 5

    Assemble and Mail Your Package

    Organize your package: I-821D on top, then I-765, then photos, then copies of documents, then payment. Mail to the USCIS lockbox address for DACA renewals (check uscis.gov for the current mailing address — it changes periodically). Use certified mail with tracking.

  6. 6

    Wait for Your Receipt Notice

    USCIS will send you a Form I-797 Receipt Notice within a few weeks confirming they received your application. Keep this notice — it serves as proof your renewal is pending and can extend your work authorization during processing.

  7. 7

    Receive Your New EAD

    When approved, USCIS will mail your new Employment Authorization Document (EAD) to the address you listed on your application. Processing times vary — check uscis.gov/tools/case-status-online for updates using your receipt number.

If Your Renewal Is Still Pending When DACA Expires

If you filed your renewal before your DACA expired and your current DACA runs out before your renewal is approved, USCIS provides automatic continuation. Your deferred action and work authorization continue for up to 48 additional days past your DACA expiration date while your renewal is being processed.

Keep Your I-797 Receipt Notice

Your I-797 receipt notice is your proof that your renewal is pending. During the auto-continuation period, you can show your expired EAD plus the I-797 receipt notice to your employer as proof of continued work authorization. Employers familiar with DACA will recognize this combination.

If your renewal takes longer than 48 days past your expiration, your DACA will technically lapse. You should consult an immigration attorney or accredited representative if you reach this point — they can help you understand your options and any implications for your employment.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I travel outside the U.S. with DACA?
DACA does not automatically allow travel outside the U.S. You need advance parole (Form I-131) approved before you leave. Traveling without advance parole can be considered voluntary departure and may affect your immigration options. Advance parole for DACA recipients is currently limited — consult an immigration attorney before any international travel.
My DACA lapsed — can I still renew?
If your DACA expired and you did not file a renewal in time, your situation depends on when it lapsed and the current state of DACA policy. USCIS has accepted late renewals in certain circumstances. Consult an immigration attorney or accredited representative immediately to understand your options.
Do I need a lawyer to renew DACA?
Not necessarily. Many DACA recipients successfully renew on their own using the USCIS instructions. However, if your circumstances have changed (criminal history, travel outside the U.S., changes in immigration status), consult an immigration attorney or an accredited representative before filing. Many nonprofit legal aid organizations offer free or low-cost DACA assistance.