Key Takeaways
• DACA Renewal must be filed 120-150 days before expiration to avoid protection gaps.
• USCIS processes only DACA renewals, not new initial applications as of January 17, 2025.
• Separate fees of $85 for Form I-821D and $410 for Form I-765 must be paid online.
If you are a DACA recipient, keeping your protection and work permit up to date is very important. The DACA Renewal process can feel stressful, but knowing what to expect and following each step carefully can help you avoid problems. Here, you’ll find a detailed, step-by-step guide to the entire DACA Renewal journey in 2025, including what you need to do, what happens at each stage, and how long things usually take. This guide also explains important rules, what to do if you run into trouble, and how to stay protected while the future of Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals remains uncertain.
Understanding DACA and Its Current Status
Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) is a policy that began in 2012. It gives certain people who came to the United States 🇺🇸 as children a chance to stay and work legally for two years at a time. DACA does not give you legal status or a green card, but it does protect you from being deported and lets you get a work permit. You must renew your DACA every two years to keep these protections.
As of July 2025, the rules around DACA are still changing because of court cases. On January 17, 2025, a court decision allowed the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) to keep processing DACA Renewal requests and work permit applications. However, if you are applying for DACA for the first time, USCIS can accept your application but will not process it right now. Only renewals are being processed.
Your DACA and work permit are still valid until their expiration date unless USCIS tells you otherwise. To avoid losing your protection or work permit, you should file your DACA Renewal request between 120 and 150 days (4 to 5 months) before your current DACA expires. This helps make sure there is no gap in your protection or your ability to work.
Step-by-Step Guide to DACA Renewal in 2025
Let’s walk through each step of the DACA Renewal process, what you need to do, and what you can expect from USCIS at each stage.
1. Check Your Current DACA Expiration Date
What to do:
Find your current DACA approval notice, called Form I-797, or look at your Employment Authorization Document (EAD). Both will show the date your DACA and work permit expire.
Why it matters:
Knowing your expiration date is the first step. You need to plan ahead so you can file your renewal 4 to 5 months before your DACA expires. Filing too late could mean you lose your protection and work permit for a while.
Estimated time:
This step usually takes just a few minutes.
2. Gather Your Previous DACA Renewal Application and Supporting Documents
What to do:
Collect a copy of your last DACA Renewal application. This helps you keep your answers consistent. Also, gather documents that show you have lived in the United States 🇺🇸 since your last renewal, such as:
- School records
- Pay stubs
- Utility bills
- Medical records
You may also need to show proof of your identity, like a passport or state ID.
Why it matters:
USCIS may ask for proof that you still meet the DACA requirements. Having these documents ready can help you respond quickly if they ask for more information.
Estimated time:
This can take a few hours to a few days, depending on how organized your records are.
3. Create or Access Your USCIS Online Account
What to do:
USCIS now requires you to file your DACA Renewal online. Go to the USCIS online account portal and create a free account if you don’t have one. If you already have an account, log in.
Why it matters:
Your online account lets you fill out forms, upload documents, pay fees, and track your case. You’ll also get messages from USCIS and can respond to any requests for more information.
Estimated time:
Setting up or logging into your account usually takes less than 30 minutes.
4. Complete the Required Forms Online
What to do:
You must fill out and submit three forms for your DACA Renewal:
- Form I-821D (Consideration of Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals): This is the main DACA form.
- Form I-765 (Application for Employment Authorization): This is for your work permit.
- Form I-765WS (Worksheet): This explains why you need to work. You fill this out on paper and upload it to your online application.
USCIS will show you Form I-765 after you sign Form I-821D, so you can submit both together.
Why it matters:
Filling out the forms online is now required. Make sure all your answers are correct and match your previous applications unless something has changed.
Estimated time:
Completing the forms can take 1–2 hours if you have all your information ready.
5. Pay the Required Fees Separately for Each Form
What to do:
You must pay a filing fee for each form. As of 2025, the fees are:
- Form I-821D: $85 (biometrics fee)
- Form I-765: $410 (work permit fee)
Important:
USCIS now requires you to pay each fee separately. If you try to pay both fees together, your application may be rejected.
Why it matters:
Paying the fees correctly is very important. If you make a mistake, your entire application could be returned, and you may lose time.
Estimated time:
Paying online usually takes just a few minutes.
6. Review and Submit a Complete Application
What to do:
Before you submit, double-check that:
- All forms are filled out completely and correctly
- You have uploaded all required documents
- Your fees are paid separately
Ask a trusted friend or legal helper to review your application if possible.
Why it matters:
Mistakes or missing information can cause delays or even lead to a denial. Taking time to review your application can save you trouble later.
Estimated time:
Reviewing your application may take 30–60 minutes.
7. File Within the Recommended Timeframe
What to do:
Submit your DACA Renewal between 150 and 120 days (4 to 5 months) before your current DACA expires.
Why it matters:
Filing earlier than 150 days does not make your case go faster. Filing later than 120 days before expiration could mean your DACA or work permit expires before you get your renewal.
Estimated time:
Submitting your application online is quick, but planning ahead is key.
8. Monitor Your Case and Respond Promptly to USCIS Requests
What to do:
After you submit your application, check your USCIS online account often. USCIS may send you a Request for Evidence (RFE) if they need more information. If you get an RFE, respond as soon as possible.
Why it matters:
Responding quickly keeps your case moving. Delays in answering can slow down your renewal or even cause a denial.
Estimated time:
Checking your account takes just a few minutes. If you get an RFE, gathering documents and responding may take a few days.
9. Seek Legal Assistance if Needed
What to do:
If you have questions, a complicated case, or if your DACA expired more than a year ago, talk to a Department of Justice (DOJ)-accredited attorney or a nonprofit legal service. Avoid unlicensed immigration consultants, as they may not be qualified and could put your case at risk.
Why it matters:
Getting the right legal help can protect you from mistakes and fraud. Many nonprofit groups offer free or low-cost help.
Estimated time:
Finding and meeting with a legal helper may take a few days to a few weeks, so start early if you think you’ll need help.
What Happens After You File Your DACA Renewal?
Once you submit your application, here’s what you can expect:
- USCIS will send you a receipt notice confirming they received your application.
- You may be asked to go to a biometrics appointment (fingerprints and photo). This is usually quick and happens at a local USCIS office.
- USCIS reviews your application. If everything is in order, they will approve your renewal and send you a new approval notice and work permit.
- Median processing time is about 1 month, but it can take up to 2 months or longer if USCIS is busy or if they need more information from you.
If your DACA and work permit expire before your renewal is approved, you may lose your job and protection from deportation until your new approval comes through. That’s why it’s so important to file on time.
Special Situations and Common Questions
- If your DACA expired more than one year ago:
Your renewal will be treated as a new (initial) application, which USCIS is not processing right now. You should talk to a legal expert about your options. -
If you move:
Update your address with USCIS right away using Form AR-11. -
If you get a Request for Evidence (RFE):
Respond as quickly as possible and include all the information USCIS asks for. -
If you have a criminal record or other legal problems:
Get legal advice before you apply. Some crimes can make you ineligible for DACA.
Staying Informed and Protecting Yourself
The rules around DACA can change quickly because of court cases and new government policies. Here’s how to stay protected:
- Check the USCIS DACA Renewal page for updates, forms, and instructions.
- Sign up for email alerts from USCIS so you know about any changes right away.
- Follow trusted organizations like the American Immigration Lawyers Association (AILA) and local immigrant rights groups for news and support.
- Keep copies of all your applications and documents in a safe place.
Advocacy and the Future of DACA
While DACA Renewal is still possible, the program’s future is uncertain. Courts are still deciding if DACA can continue, and Congress has not yet passed a permanent solution for Dreamers. Many groups are working to push for laws that would give Dreamers a path to citizenship. For now, the best way to protect yourself is to renew on time, keep good records, and stay informed.
As reported by VisaVerge.com, the DACA Renewal process remains open for those who already have DACA, but first-time applications are still on hold. Processing times are fairly quick, but delays can happen, so following the recommended steps and timeframes is more important than ever.
Key Takeaways and Next Steps
- Start early: Check your expiration date and begin preparing your renewal 5 months before your DACA ends.
- Gather your documents: Keep everything organized and ready to upload.
- Use your USCIS online account: File your forms, pay fees separately, and track your case online.
- Double-check everything: Mistakes can cause delays or denials.
- Respond quickly to USCIS: Don’t ignore any messages or requests for more information.
- Get legal help if you need it: Only use trusted, accredited legal services.
- Stay informed: Rules can change, so check official sources often.
By following these steps, you can help make sure your DACA Renewal goes smoothly and you keep your protection and work permit. For more details and the latest updates, always refer to the official USCIS DACA page.
Remember, you are not alone in this process. Many organizations and legal helpers are ready to support you. Stay organized, stay alert, and renew on time to keep your future secure.
Learn Today
DACA → Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals program protecting eligible young immigrants from deportation for two years.
USCIS → United States Citizenship and Immigration Services, the government agency processing immigration forms and applications.
Work Permit → An Employment Authorization Document allowing DACA recipients to legally work in the U.S. for limited periods.
Request for Evidence → A USCIS notice asking applicants for more documentation or information to support their case.
Biometrics Appointment → A required USCIS step where applicants provide fingerprints and photos for background checks.
This Article in a Nutshell
DACA Renewal in 2025 requires online filing with USCIS, submitting three forms and paying separate fees. Timely filing maintains work permits and protection amid uncertain legal status and ongoing court challenges.
— By VisaVerge.com
