Don't Let You Work Permit Expire; Follow These DACA Renewal Tips from USCIS

Some people wait too long to request DACA renewal or do not correctly submit all the required forms and fees. As a result, their Employment Authorization Documents may expire before USCIS can finish processing their requests for DACA renewal.

You can lessen the chance that this may happen if you:

• File on time. Submit your renewal request between 150 days and 120 days before the expiration date listed on your current Form I-797 DACA approval notice and Employment Authorization Document. USCIS continues to recommend this window in 2026 to reduce the risk of gaps in work authorization.
• Correctly submit all required forms and fees. USCIS will reject your renewal request unless you properly submit:
• Form I-821D, Consideration of Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals;
• Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization;
• Form I-765 Worksheet; and
• Required fees of $555 total (this includes the I-765 filing fee and biometrics; fees may change, so always confirm on USCIS.gov before filing).
• Avoid processing delays. Be sure to submit:
• Any new documents and information related to removal proceedings or criminal history that you have not already submitted to USCIS in a previously approved DACA request,
• Proof of advance parole if you have traveled outside the United States since you filed your last DACA request that was approved; and
• Proof of any legal name change.
• Respond to Requests for Evidence. USCIS may deny your renewal request if you do not respond to a Request for Evidence (RFE) in a timely manner. For complete instructions, go to the official USCIS page for Consideration of Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA).



Since USCIS implemented updated notification practices, DACA recipients typically receive renewal reminder notices approximately 150–180 days before expiration, helping ensure applicants have enough time to prepare and submit their renewal requests within the recommended window.

USCIS’ current goal is to process DACA renewal requests within 90 to 120 days, although actual processing times in 2026 may vary depending on workload and location. You may submit an inquiry about the status of your renewal request if it is outside normal processing times by visiting egov.uscis.gov/e-request.