DACA Renewal: Protecting Your Status in 2026
If you're a DACA recipient, staying current with your renewal is essential to maintaining your work authorization and protection from deportation. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about renewing DACA in 2026.
What Is DACA?
Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) is a program that provides temporary protection from deportation and work authorization for certain undocumented individuals who came to the U.S. as children.
DACA Benefits:
- Protection from deportation (deferred action)
- Employment Authorization Document (EAD) valid for 2 years
- Social Security number
- Ability to obtain a driver's license
- In some states, eligibility for professional licenses
- Ability to open bank accounts
What DACA Does NOT Provide:
- Path to citizenship or green card
- Ability to sponsor family members for immigration
- Federal financial aid for college (in most cases)
- Guaranteed protection (can be terminated)
- Lawful immigration status
When to Renew Your DACA
USCIS recommends filing 150-120 days before your current EAD expires.
Why this timeline matters:
- USCIS processing takes 3-5 months
- Filing late may result in a gap in work authorization
- Gaps in DACA status can have serious consequences
Check Your EAD Expiration Date:
Your Employment Authorization Document (EAD) card shows your expiration date. Don't wait until the last minute.
What Happens If You Let DACA Lapse:
- You cannot work legally
- You lose protection from deportation
- You may face difficulties renewing if the lapse was more than 1 year
- You may need to file an initial application instead of a renewal (more expensive)
- Some employers may terminate employment
Important: Set a reminder 5 months before your expiration date to start the renewal process.
DACA Renewal Eligibility Requirements
To renew DACA, you must:
- Came to the U.S. before age 16
- Continuously resided in the U.S. since June 15, 2007
- Were under age 31 on June 15, 2012
- Were physically present in the U.S. on June 15, 2012
- Have no lawful status (or were out of status on June 15, 2012)
- Currently in school, graduated from high school, obtained a GED, OR honorably discharged from military
- Have not been convicted of a felony, significant misdemeanor, or three or more other misdemeanors, and do not pose a threat to national security or public safety
Note: New criminal convictions since your last DACA approval can make you ineligible for renewal.
Required Forms and Documents for DACA Renewal
Forms to File:
1. Form I-821D (Consideration of Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals)
This is your request to renew DACA.
2. Form I-765 (Application for Employment Authorization)
This requests renewal of your work permit.
3. Form I-765 Worksheet
Shows your eligibility category and any name changes.
Supporting Documents:
Identity Documents:
- Copy of both sides of your current EAD card
- Copy of passport biographic page (if you have one)
- Copy of government-issued ID (driver's license, state ID, etc.)
- Copy of birth certificate with English translation
Proof of Continuous Residence:
You must show you've lived in the U.S. continuously since your last DACA approval. Provide documents from throughout the period, such as:
- School records (transcripts, report cards, attendance records)
- Employment records (pay stubs, W-2s, employment letters)
- Medical records
- Bank statements or financial records
- Utility bills, rent receipts, or mortgage statements
- Tax returns
- Car registration or insurance
- Social media records showing U.S. presence
- Affidavits from community members
Criminal History Documents (if applicable):
If you've been arrested or charged with any crime since your last DACA approval, you must provide:
- Arrest records
- Charging documents
- Court dispositions
- Proof of completed probation, community service, or fines
- Rehabilitation evidence
Even minor arrests can affect your renewal. Consult an attorney before filing if you have any criminal history.
Departure Documentation (if applicable):
If you traveled outside the U.S. with advance parole, include:
- Copy of advance parole approval
- Entry stamps showing your return
- Boarding passes or travel itinerary
DACA Renewal Filing Fees
Total Cost: $495
Breakdown:
- Form I-821D: No separate fee
- Form I-765 (EAD): $495 (includes biometrics)
Payment Methods:
- Money order
- Personal check
- Cashier's check
- Credit card (using Form G-1450)
Make payable to: "U.S. Department of Homeland Security"
Fee Waivers:
USCIS does not grant fee waivers for DACA renewals. However, some organizations offer financial assistance:
- Mission Asset Fund (www.missionassetfund.org)
- Local immigrant advocacy organizations
- Schools and universities
- Community foundations
Financial Hardship:
If you cannot afford the fee, explore:
- Payment plans through assistance organizations
- Fundraising through family and community
- Workplace assistance programs
DO NOT let financial concerns prevent you from filing. Missing your deadline has more serious consequences than temporary financial strain.
Step-by-Step DACA Renewal Process
Step 1: Check Your Expiration Date (5 months before expiration)
Locate your EAD card and note the expiration date. Set reminders for 150 days before expiration.
Step 2: Gather Your Documents (4 months before expiration)
Collect all required documents. Don't wait until the last minute.
Step 3: Complete the Forms (120-150 days before expiration)
Fill out Forms I-821D, I-765, and I-765 Worksheet:
- Type or print clearly in black ink
- Answer every question (write "N/A" if not applicable)
- Sign and date both forms
- Make complete copies for your records
Common Mistakes to Avoid:
- Forgetting to sign the forms
- Using an old version of the forms (download from uscis.gov)
- Providing inconsistent information
- Leaving questions blank
- Not updating address if you moved
Step 4: Prepare Your Payment
Include a check or money order for $495, OR complete Form G-1450 for credit card payment.
Step 5: Create Your Package
Organize your package in this order:
Step 6: Make Complete Copies
Photocopy your ENTIRE package before mailing. You may need these copies later.
Step 7: Mail Your Package
Send via USPS with tracking:
Mailing Address:
USCIS
PO Box 805887
Chicago, IL 60680-4120
Express/Courier Address:
USCIS
Attn: DACA
131 South Dearborn St, 3rd Floor
Chicago, IL 60603-5517
DO NOT send to USCIS field offices. They will reject your package.
Step 8: Track Your Package
Use your tracking number to confirm USCIS received your package.
After You File: What to Expect
Receipt Notice (I-797C) - 2-4 weeks after mailing:
USCIS will send a receipt notice confirming they received your application. This includes:
- Receipt number (starts with IOE)
- Receipt date
- Notice date
- Amount charged
Check your receipt notice carefully. Make sure all information is correct.
Biometrics Reuse Notice - 2-4 weeks:
If USCIS can reuse your previous biometrics (fingerprints and photo), they'll send a notice. You don't need to attend an appointment.
OR
Biometrics Appointment Notice - 4-8 weeks:
If USCIS needs new biometrics, you'll receive an appointment notice. Attend your appointment at the specified Application Support Center (ASC).
What to bring to biometrics:
- Appointment notice
- Government-issued photo ID
- Receipt notice
Approval Notice - 3-5 months after filing:
If approved, you'll receive Form I-797 (approval notice) and your new EAD card will arrive separately within 1-2 weeks.
Your new EAD card includes:
- Your name and photo
- USCIS number (A-number)
- Card number
- Issue and expiration dates (valid for 2 years)
Check your EAD card immediately for errors (name misspelling, wrong dates, etc.). Report errors to USCIS within 30 days.
Checking Your Case Status
Online:
Visit uscis.gov/casestatus and enter your receipt number.
By Phone:
Call USCIS at 1-800-375-5283 (TTY: 1-800-767-1833)
Case Status Updates:
- "Case Was Received"
- "Biometrics Appointment Was Scheduled"
- "Case Is Being Actively Reviewed"
- "Card Is Being Produced"
- "Card Was Mailed"
- "Case Was Approved"
Common DACA Renewal Issues
Request for Evidence (RFE):
If USCIS needs additional information, they'll send an RFE. Common reasons:
- Insufficient proof of continuous residence
- Questions about criminal history
- Missing documents
- Unclear photocopies
- Need for updated documents
You typically have 87 days to respond. Consult an attorney before responding to ensure your response is complete.
Departure Without Advance Parole:
If you left the U.S. without advance parole since your last DACA approval, you're ineligible for renewal. Limited exceptions exist for brief, innocent, and casual departures.
Criminal Issues:
New criminal convictions can make you ineligible. What constitutes a disqualifying conviction:
- Any felony
- A significant misdemeanor (DUI, domestic violence, sexual abuse, drug offense, weapons offense, or any misdemeanor with sentence of 90+ days)
- Three or more other misdemeanors
Even arrests without conviction can raise concerns. Consult an attorney if you have any criminal history.
Name Changes:
If you legally changed your name (through marriage, court order, etc.), provide:
- Marriage certificate, OR
- Court order showing name change
- Updated identification with new name
Moved Since Last Filing:
Update your address:
- Online at uscis.gov/change-of-address
- By phone at 1-800-375-5283
- By mail using Form AR-11
Failure to update your address can result in missed notices and denial.
What If Your DACA Renewal Is Denied?
Denial is rare for renewals, but it happens. Common reasons:
- Criminal convictions
- Failure to meet continuous residence requirement
- Abandonment of U.S. residence
- Security or public safety concerns
- Incomplete application or failure to respond to RFE
If Denied:
1. Review the Denial Notice:
Understand exactly why you were denied and whether you have appeal rights.
2. File a Motion to Reopen or Reconsider:
If USCIS made an error or you have new evidence, file within 30 days.
3. Reapply:
If you can fix the problem, file a new DACA application (initial, not renewal). This requires the initial application fee.
4. Consult an Attorney Immediately:
An Arabic-speaking immigration attorney can:
- Review your denial
- Advise on your options
- File appeals or motions
- Represent you in proceedings
Important: Once DACA is denied, you lose your protection from deportation. Consult an attorney before taking any action.
Special Considerations for Arab DACA Recipients
Travel:
Many Arab DACA recipients wish to visit family abroad. You can only travel with advance parole (Form I-131). However:
- Advance parole is discretionary (not guaranteed)
- Travel to certain countries may raise security concerns
- Consult an attorney before requesting advance parole
Name Issues:
Common Arabic names may trigger extended background checks. Provide all name variations:
- Full Arabic name
- Romanized versions
- Any names used on school or work documents
Documentation from Arab Countries:
Birth certificates and other documents must be translated by a certified translator. Your attorney can recommend qualified Arabic translators.
Community Concerns:
Changes in immigration policy can affect DACA. Stay informed through:
- Reliable immigration legal organizations
- Your attorney
- Official USCIS updates (not social media rumors)
After Your DACA Is Renewed
Update Your Employment:
Provide your new EAD card to your employer to update I-9 documentation.
Update Other Documents:
- Social Security Administration (if name changed)
- Driver's license
- Professional licenses
- School records
Plan for Next Renewal:
Set a reminder for 5 months before your new expiration date. DACA renewals are ongoing - you'll need to renew every 2 years.
Stay Informed:
DACA policy can change. Follow:
- USCIS.gov for official updates
- Reputable immigration legal organizations
- Your immigration attorney
Avoid Common Pitfalls:
- Don't travel without advance parole
- Don't commit crimes (even minor ones)
- Don't provide false information to government agencies
- Don't miss your renewal deadline
- Don't fall for immigration scams
Why Arabic-Speaking Legal Help Matters for DACA
While DACA renewal is more straightforward than other immigration processes, legal guidance is still valuable:
An Arabic-speaking attorney can:
- Review your eligibility before filing
- Ensure your application is complete and accurate
- Advise on any criminal history issues
- Help with advance parole applications
- Respond to RFEs effectively
- Assist if your renewal is denied
- Explain complex immigration concepts in Arabic
- Provide peace of mind
When to Definitely Consult an Attorney:
- You have any criminal history (even arrests without conviction)
- You traveled outside the U.S. without advance parole
- You were denied DACA previously
- You have questions about your eligibility
- You receive an RFE
- Your renewal is denied
Resources for DACA Recipients
Official USCIS Resources:
- USCIS DACA page: uscis.gov/daca
- Case status: uscis.gov/casestatus
- Form downloads: uscis.gov/forms
- USCIS Contact Center: 1-800-375-5283
Legal Assistance:
- Our network of Arabic-speaking immigration attorneys
- Immigration legal services organizations
- Law school immigration clinics
- Nonprofit legal aid societies
Financial Assistance:
- Mission Asset Fund: missionassetfund.org
- Local community organizations
- College or university resources
Mental Health Support:
The stress of DACA uncertainty can be overwhelming. Resources:
- National Alliance on Mental Illness: nami.org
- Psychology Today therapist finder
- University counseling centers
- Community health centers
The Future of DACA
DACA's future remains uncertain due to ongoing legal challenges. However:
Current Status (2026):
- DACA renewals are being processed
- New DACA applications are accepted (but may face delays or challenges)
- Recipients can continue renewing every 2 years
- Courts have upheld DACA renewals even when challenging new applications
Stay Prepared:
- Always file renewal on time
- Maintain copies of all DACA approvals
- Keep track of your continuous residence
- Stay informed about policy changes
- Have a backup plan (consult attorney about other immigration options)
Get Expert Help with Your DACA Renewal
Don't risk your DACA status by filing incorrectly or missing deadlines. Our network of Arabic-speaking immigration attorneys specializes in DACA cases and can:
- Review your eligibility
- Prepare your renewal application
- Ensure all documents are complete
- Respond to RFEs
- Represent you if issues arise
- Explain everything in Arabic
Contact us today for a free consultation. Protect your DACA status and your future in America.