DACA Renewal – Form I-821D & I-765

Renew your Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) status and Employment Authorization Document before they expire.

Our Fee

$79

USCIS Fee

$85

Est. Completion

15–20 min

File Within

150 days before expiry

⚠️ ImmigrationSmile.com is not a law firm. We prepare forms only. USCIS fees are paid separately.

About DACA Renewal

Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) provides temporary protection from removal and work authorization to individuals who arrived in the U.S. as children. DACA is granted in 2-year increments and must be actively renewed. To renew DACA, you file Form I-821D (Consideration of Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals) together with Form I-765 (Employment Authorization) and the biometrics fee. USCIS recommends filing 120–150 days before your current DACA expires.

Renewal Eligibility

✓ You already have DACA and it is set to expire within 150 days

✓ You have not been convicted of a felony, significant misdemeanor, or 3+ misdemeanors

✓ You do not pose a threat to national security or public safety

✓ You have continuously resided in the U.S. since June 15, 2007

Documents Required for Renewal

✓Copy of current EAD (Employment Authorization Document) — front and back
✓Copy of most recent I-797 DACA Approval Notice
✓Copy of passport or foreign birth certificate (if no passport)
✓Copy of any prior immigration or travel documents received since your last DACA approval
✓Any new criminal records or court dispositions since your last renewal (if applicable)

Steps to Renew DACA

1
Check your current DACA expiration date — begin the process 120–150 days before it expires
2
Confirm your eligibility has not changed since your last approval
3
Complete the I-821D and I-765 renewal questionnaires using our software
4
Gather required documents (current EAD, prior I-797, ID)
5
Pay the $85 USCIS filing fee by check or money order to "U.S. Department of Homeland Security"
6
Mail your complete renewal packet to the correct USCIS lockbox
7
Attend biometrics appointment
8
Await new DACA approval and EAD card by mail

FAQs – DACA Renewal

Q: What if my DACA has already expired?

A: USCIS may accept late renewal requests in limited circumstances. Contact an immigration attorney immediately if your DACA has already lapsed — do not delay.

Q: Does DACA give me a path to a green card?

A: DACA itself does not provide a path to lawful permanent residence or citizenship. Consult an immigration attorney to explore whether any other immigration options apply to your situation.

Q: Can I travel with DACA?

A: DACA recipients may apply for advance parole (Form I-131) for limited international travel, but this carries risks. Strongly consult an attorney before leaving the U.S.

Q: Will an arrest affect my renewal?

A: Yes. Any criminal history, including arrests, must be disclosed. A new arrest or conviction may affect your ability to renew. Consult an attorney before filing if you have a new criminal matter.

Ready to Start?

Complete the continuous questionnaire to generate your print-ready packet.