For DACA renewal, applicants must submit Form I-821D, Form I-765, and Form I-703, along with the required renewal fees. Supporting documents include proof of continuous residence in the U.S., such as pay stubs, school records, or medical records, demonstrating eligibility since the initial DACA approval. Additionally, any changes in personal information or new criminal history must be disclosed with appropriate documentation.
What Documents are Needed for DACA Renewal Basics?
| Number | Name | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | I-821D Evidence Packet | The I-821D Evidence Packet for DACA renewal must include a completed Form I-821D, proof of continuous residence such as school, medical, or employment records, and evidence of identity like a passport or birth certificate. Failure to submit a thorough evidence packet can result in processing delays or denial of deferred action under the DACA program. |
| 2 | Continuous Residence Documentation | Continuous residence documentation for DACA renewal requires evidence such as rent receipts, utility bills, school records, medical records, employment records, or affidavits from community members demonstrating presence in the U.S. without significant interruptions since the initial DACA approval date. Providing multiple types of dated documents covering the entire statutory period strengthens the application by proving uninterrupted continuous residence. |
| 3 | Identity Verification Records | DACA renewal requires submitting identity verification records such as a valid passport, birth certificate, or government-issued ID to confirm the applicant's identity. Providing these documents ensures accurate processing and compliance with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) requirements for Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals. |
| 4 | Proof of Physical Presence Statements | Proof of physical presence for DACA renewal requires detailed documentation such as school records, employment pay stubs, medical records, or lease agreements demonstrating continuous residence in the U.S. since the initial DACA approval. Official government-issued documents, utility bills, or affidavits from relatives or community members can also strengthen the proof of ongoing physical presence. |
| 5 | Affidavit of Absence Explanation | An Affidavit of Absence Explanation is required for DACA renewal applicants who have spent time outside the United States, detailing the reasons and duration of absence to demonstrate continuous physical presence. This document supports the applicant's compliance with DACA requirements and helps USCIS assess eligibility during the renewal process. |
| 6 | Updated Biometrics Notification | Renewal of Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) requires submission of Form I-821D, Form I-765, and Form I-765WS, along with the payment of associated fees; updated biometrics notification indicates that applicants must attend a biometrics appointment where fingerprints, photographs, and signatures are collected to verify identity and conduct background checks. This biometric update is essential for processing the renewal and must be completed within the specified timeline to avoid delays or denial. |
| 7 | Recent Educational Enrollment Proof | Recent educational enrollment proof required for DACA renewal includes official transcripts, enrollment verification letters from accredited institutions, or current class schedules confirming active registration. These documents serve as evidence of continued academic engagement, which supports eligibility criteria in the renewal application process. |
| 8 | Advanced Parole Travel Evidence | Applicants seeking DACA renewal with Advanced Parole must submit evidence of approved travel authorization, such as the Form I-512L (Authorization for Parole of an Alien Into the United States) or a valid travel document issued by USCIS. Supporting documents may include copies of the travel itinerary, passport pages, and proof of the purpose of travel, demonstrating eligibility under humanitarian, educational, or employment-related reasons. |
| 9 | Expired EAD (Employment Authorization Document) Copy | An expired Employment Authorization Document (EAD) copy is essential for DACA renewal to verify previous authorization status and ensure continuity of employment eligibility. Applicants must submit a clear photocopy of the front and back of the expired EAD as part of the required documentation to the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). |
| 10 | Tax Filing Confirmation Letters | Tax filing confirmation letters, such as IRS Form 150 or IRS Tax Return Transcripts, serve as essential proof of continuous tax compliance required for DACA renewal applications. These documents validate the applicant's financial responsibility and support eligibility verification during the adjudication process. |
Understanding DACA Renewal Authorization
To renew your DACA authorization, specific documents are essential to demonstrate continuous eligibility. These include proof of identity, evidence of continuous residence in the U.S., and documentation of employment or school enrollment. Understanding these requirements ensures timely and successful DACA renewal authorization.
Eligibility Criteria for DACA Renewal
| Document | Description | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Form I-821D, Consideration of Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals | Completed and signed renewal application form | Requests deferred action renewal under DACA program |
| Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization | Completed form to request work permit renewal | Obtains or renews employment authorization document (EAD) |
| Form I-765 Worksheet | Proof of eligibility and fee calculation supporting Form I-765 | Confirms eligibility and fee exemption or payment |
| Previous DACA Approval Notice | Copy of the most recent approval notice for DACA | Verifies prior DACA grant and eligibility for renewal |
| Government-issued Identification | Valid passport, state ID, or driver's license | Establishes identity |
| Evidence of Continuous Residence | Documents showing residence in the U.S. since last DACA approval | Proves ongoing physical presence and eligibility |
| Proof of School Enrollment or Graduation | Recent school records, transcripts, or diploma | Demonstrates enrollment, graduation, or vocational training |
| Criminal History Documentation | Records disclosing any arrests or convictions, if applicable | Ensures compliance with eligibility and good moral character |
| Eligibility Criteria | To qualify for DACA renewal, you must have previously been granted DACA, have maintained continuous residence since the last approval, have not had any final removal order issued, and must not have been convicted of a felony, significant misdemeanor, or multiple misdemeanors. | |
Key Deadlines for DACA Renewal Applications
Renewing your DACA requires careful attention to its key deadlines to maintain your protected status. Timely submission of all necessary documents ensures your application is processed without delay.
- Form I-821D - Renewal Request for Consideration of Deferred Action must be fully completed and submitted.
- Form I-765 - Employment Authorization Document application needs to be included for work permit renewal.
- Form I-765WS - Worksheet for Employment Authorization supports your eligibility for renewal.
Essential Documents Required for DACA Renewal
Renewing DACA requires submitting specific documents to prove identity, continuous residence, and eligibility. Proper documentation ensures the renewal application is complete and complies with USCIS requirements.
- Completed Form I-821D - The individual must fill out and submit the updated Application for Consideration of Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals.
- Form I-765 and I-765WS - Applicants need to include the Employment Authorization Document application and the worksheet explaining economic necessity or job status.
- Proof of Continuous Residence - Evidence such as school records, medical documents, or pay stubs demonstrating uninterrupted presence in the U.S. since the last approved DACA period is required.
Step-by-Step Process for Gathering Documentation
To renew your DACA, you need to gather specific documents that verify your identity, residency, and eligibility. These include a current government-issued ID, proof of continuous residence, and evidence of school attendance or work authorization.
Start by collecting your previous DACA approval notices and employment authorization documents. Next, obtain proof of residency such as utility bills or lease agreements spanning the required timeframe.
Include documents showing school enrollment or graduation certificates if applicable. Finally, prepare any court or immigration records relevant to your case to complete the application package.
Organize all paperwork carefully to avoid delays during submission. Ensuring accuracy and completeness in your documentation simplifies the DACA renewal process.
Guidelines for Completing DACA Renewal Forms
When renewing DACA, applicants must submit specific documents to prove continuous residence and eligibility. Key documents include a completed Form I-821D, Form I-765, and Form I-765WS.
Guidelines for completing these forms emphasize accuracy and completeness to avoid delays. Each form requires detailed personal information and up-to-date supporting evidence of employment, education, or residence.
Common Mistakes to Avoid in DACA Renewal Submission
Renewing DACA requires submitting specific documents, such as a completed Form I-821D, proof of current DACA status, and evidence of continuous residence. Missing or incorrect documents often lead to processing delays or denial.
Common mistakes in DACA renewal submissions include failing to provide updated government-issued identification, omitting proof of residence for the entire qualifying period, and neglecting to sign the application. Ensure all forms are filled out accurately and all required fees are included. Careful review before submission helps avoid unnecessary complications and protects your renewal status.
Supporting Evidence for DACA Renewal Authorization
Supporting evidence plays a crucial role in the DACA renewal process to verify continued eligibility and identity. Accurate and complete documentation helps USCIS assess renewal applications efficiently.
- Proof of Identity - Valid government-issued photo ID, such as a passport or driver's license, confirms the applicant's identity.
- Proof of Continuous Residence - Documents like school records, employment pay stubs, or utility bills demonstrate continuous residence in the U.S. since the initial DACA approval.
- Proof of Payment - Receipts for application fees must be submitted to prove fee payment for the renewal process.
Submitting thorough supporting evidence ensures a smoother DACA renewal authorization review by USCIS.
Tips for a Successful DACA Renewal Application
To successfully renew your DACA, gather essential documents including your current DACA approval notice, employment authorization card, and recent proof of residence such as utility bills or lease agreements. Ensure all forms are accurately completed, especially the Form I-821D, along with a timely payment of renewal fees. Maintaining organized records and submitting your application within the 150 to 120-day window before expiration can help avoid processing delays and increase your chances of approval.
What Documents are Needed for DACA Renewal Basics? Infographic
