Renewing Your Protection
DACA provides temporary protection from deportation (deferred action) and a work permit (EAD) to eligible young people who were brought to the U.S. as children.
Eligibility Snapshot (Renewals Only)
- Current 2025 Status: As of October 2025, federal courts continue to block USCIS from approving new, initial DACA applications. However, Immigration officials have outlined plans to accept new DACA applicants.
- Renewals ARE Active: If you currently have DACA or your DACA expired less than one year ago, you can still file for a two-year renewal.
- Basic Renewal Requirements: You must prove you have continuously resided in the U.S. and have not been convicted of a disqualifying felony, significant misdemeanor, or three or more misdemeanors.
The Renewal Process & Typical Timeline
- File Forms: File Form I-821D (DACA) and Form I-765 (EAD) with USCIS. Filing online is now the preferred method.
- Filing Fee: Pay the $495 $555 fee.
- Biometrics: USCIS may reuse your old biometrics or schedule you for a new fingerprinting appointment.
- Decision: USCIS approves the renewal and mails your new EAD card, valid for two years.
Real-world timing: USCIS recommends filing your renewal 120-150 days (4-5 months) before your current DACA expires.
2024-25 Policy Updates
- Fee Increase (April 2024): The fee for DACA renewal increased. The I-821D fee is $85, and the I-765 fee is $470 (online), for a new total of $555.
- Payment Change (Oct 28, 2025): Starting this month, USCIS will no longer accept paper checks or money orders for DACA. Payment must be made online or via credit card (Form G-1450) or ACH (Form G-1650).
- Legal Status: The Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals upheld a lower court ruling that the DACA program is unlawful. The program remains in legal jeopardy, with its fate likely to be decided by the Supreme Court in 2026.
Evidence Checklist (for Renewal)
- Copy of your most recent EAD card (front and back)
- New passport-style photos
- The $555 $555 filing fee
- If you traveled: Copy of your Advance Parole approval and I-94.
- If you were arrested: Certified dispositions for any criminal incident, even if it was dismissed.
Risks & Practical Tips
- Do NOT Let it Expire: If your DACA expires for more than one year, it is considered an initial application, which USCIS is blocked from approving. You will lose your protection and work permit.
- Criminal Issues are Fatal: Any new arrest—even for a DUI—can make you ineligible for renewal. You must speak to an immigration attorney before filing if you have had any police contact.
- Advance Parole (AP): DACA recipients remain eligible to apply for Advance Parole (travel) for humanitarian, educational, or employment reasons. This is a powerful tool that can help you.
Next Steps
The DACA program is fragile. Do not risk a filing error or a late submission. Let our firm handle your renewal quickly and securely to protect your job and your future.
Last updated October 2025. Regulations and fees change frequently—contact us for a personalized assessment.
This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice.