To renew DACA status, applicants must submit Form I-821D, Form I-765 for work authorization, and Form I-765 Worksheet. Supporting documents include proof of identity, such as a passport or birth certificate, and evidence of continuous residence in the U.S. since the initial DACA approval. Recent documents confirming education, employment, or family ties may also be required to demonstrate eligibility.
What Documents are Necessary for Renewal of DACA Status?
| Number | Name | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | DACA Renewal Cover Letter | The DACA renewal cover letter is a critical document that must clearly state the applicant's intent to renew deferred action status and list all enclosed forms, including Form I-821D for deferred action and Form I-765 for employment authorization renewal. This cover letter should also highlight any changes in circumstances since the last approval, ensuring USCIS accurately processes the renewal request under DACA guidelines. |
| 2 | I-821D Updated Supplement | The updated I-821D Supplement form is essential for renewing DACA status, requiring applicants to provide accurate personal information, current residency details, and any changes since the last application. Supporting documents such as proof of continuous residence, identity, and evidence of educational or military status must accompany the I-821D to ensure a complete renewal packet. |
| 3 | Expanded Evidence of Continuous Residence | Renewal of DACA status requires submission of Form I-821D, Form I-765, and Form I-765 Worksheet, along with a filing fee or fee waiver request. Expanded evidence of continuous residence may include school records, pay stubs, medical records, lease agreements, and affidavits from community members to demonstrate uninterrupted presence in the U.S. since the initial DACA grant. |
| 4 | Advanced Parole Travel Records | Renewal of DACA status requires submission of Form I-821D, Application for Consideration of Deferred Action, along with evidence of continuous residence and identity documents. If advanced parole was granted, including travel records such as Form I-512L, Advance Parole Document, is essential to demonstrate authorized re-entry during the period of deferred action. |
| 5 | Updated Biometrics Appointment Notice | The renewal of DACA status requires submitting Form I-821D, Form I-765, and Form I-765WS, accompanied by the updated biometrics appointment notice confirming the scheduled date and location for fingerprinting and photograph collection. Ensuring the biometrics appointment notice is current and accurately processed is critical for timely approval and continuation of Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals protections. |
| 6 | Deferred Action Renewal Fee Waiver | Applicants seeking renewal of DACA status must submit Form I-821D, Form I-765, and Form I-765WS along with the required renewal fee of $495; however, those facing financial hardship may be eligible to request a Deferred Action Renewal Fee Waiver by submitting Form I-912, accompanied by supporting evidence such as recent tax returns, pay stubs, or proof of government assistance. The fee waiver request must demonstrate inability to pay to avoid financial barriers in maintaining deferred action protection and work authorization under DACA. |
| 7 | Notice of Intent to Deny (NOID) Response Documents | For renewal of DACA status, responding to a Notice of Intent to Deny (NOID) requires submitting evidence that addresses the reasons cited by USCIS, including updated proof of continuous residence, identity documents, and any supplemental information supporting eligibility. Essential documents typically include a completed NOID response letter, recent tax returns, school enrollment records, and affidavits verifying ongoing presence and compliance with DACA requirements. |
| 8 | Expanded Proof of Economic Hardship | Renewal of DACA status requires submitting Form I-821D, Form I-765, and Form I-765WS along with expanded proof of economic hardship such as recent pay stubs, tax returns, bank statements, and letters from employers or financial aid providers demonstrating loss of income or financial instability. Providing comprehensive evidence of economic hardship strengthens the case for renewal by verifying the applicant's ongoing financial challenges impacting their ability to meet basic living expenses. |
| 9 | Updated Criminal Background Certification | Renewal of DACA status requires submission of an updated criminal background certification to verify the absence of new criminal activity since the last approval. This certification typically involves fingerprinting and provides U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) with current, accurate criminal records essential for maintaining deferred action eligibility. |
| 10 | Post-COVID-19 Vaccination/Health Records | Applicants renewing DACA status must submit updated COVID-19 vaccination records or relevant health documentation as part of their application to comply with current USCIS health requirements. These documents ensure eligibility verification and demonstrate adherence to public health guidelines amid ongoing pandemic protocols. |
Overview of DACA Renewal Process
Renewing DACA status requires submitting specific documents to demonstrate eligibility and maintain deferred action protection. The process ensures continued work authorization and protection from deportation for eligible individuals.
- Form I-821D, Consideration of Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals - This form is the primary application for DACA renewal, capturing updated personal and eligibility information.
- Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization - Required to request renewal of work authorization under the DACA program.
- Proof of Continuous Residency - Documents such as school records, pay stubs, or medical records must show residence in the U.S. continuously since the last DACA approval.
Key Deadlines for DACA Renewal Submission
To renew DACA status, you need to submit Form I-821D (Consideration of Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals), Form I-765 (Application for Employment Authorization), and Form I-765WS (Worksheet). Supporting documents such as a copy of your current Employment Authorization Document (EAD) and evidence of continuous residence in the U.S. since your initial DACA approval are essential. Key deadlines require submission between 150 and 120 days before your current DACA expires to ensure timely processing and maintain protected status.
Required Personal Identification Documents
| Document Type | Description | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Form I-821D | Consideration of Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals application form | Official renewal request for DACA status |
| Form I-765 | Application for Employment Authorization | Requested to renew work permit linked to DACA |
| Form I-765 Worksheet | Supplementary worksheet for Form I-765 | Used to calculate fees and provide additional details |
| Passport or Birth Certificate | Government-issued proof of identity and origin | Establishes identity and country of birth |
| Government-issued Photo ID | Examples include driver's license, state ID card, or school ID | Verifies identity during renewal process |
| Previous DACA Approval Notice (Form I-797) | Official notice of previous DACA approval from USCIS | Confirms eligibility and previous grant of deferred action |
| Social Security Number Card (if applicable) | Official Social Security identification card | Used to verify employment authorization and identity |
| Proof of Residence | Utility bills, lease agreements, or school records | Evidence of continuous residence in the United States |
Proof of Continuous U.S. Residence
Proof of continuous U.S. residence is a crucial requirement for the renewal of DACA status. Demonstrating that you have lived in the country without significant interruption ensures eligibility for renewal.
Acceptable documents include rent receipts, utility bills, school records, and employment pay stubs dated throughout the qualifying period. Consistent documentation spanning the entire required timeframe strengthens the renewal application.
Evidence of Educational or Military Status
To renew DACA status, you must provide documents proving continuous education or military service. Evidence may include recent school transcripts, enrollment verification, or military discharge papers. Your submission should clearly demonstrate ongoing eligibility through these educational or military records.
Employment Authorization Documentation
What documents are necessary for the renewal of DACA status focusing on employment authorization documentation? Applicants must provide a current Employment Authorization Document (EAD) as proof of their eligibility to work. This document serves as primary evidence and is crucial for the renewal process under DACA guidelines.
Filing Fees and Payment Methods
Renewing DACA status requires specific documents, including proof of continuous residence and identity verification, alongside the correct filing fees. Payment methods for renewal fees must comply with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) guidelines to avoid delays.
- Filing Fee Amount - The standard fee for Form I-821D, Request for Consideration of Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals, is $495, covering biometric services.
- Accepted Payment Methods - USCIS accepts payment by check, money order, or credit card when using Form G-1450 for credit card authorization.
- Fee Waivers - Fee waivers may be requested if the applicant can demonstrate financial hardship, requiring supporting documentation.
Ensuring all required documents and correct payment methods are submitted improves the likelihood of timely DACA renewal processing.
Tips for Gathering and Organizing Documents
Renewing DACA status requires specific documentation to prove continuous residence and eligibility. Proper organization of these documents can streamline the renewal process and reduce errors.
- Collect Employment Authorization Documents - Include current and past EAD cards to demonstrate ongoing work authorization.
- Gather Proof of Residence - Use utility bills, lease agreements, or school records dated within the required timeframes.
- Keep Personal Identification Ready - Have a valid passport, birth certificate, or state ID available to verify identity.
Common Documentation Mistakes to Avoid
Renewing DACA status requires submitting specific documents, including a completed Form I-821D, Form I-765, and Form I-765WS. Supporting evidence such as proof of continuous residence, identity documents, and payment receipts must also be included to ensure a successful application.
Common documentation mistakes include submitting outdated or incorrect forms that cause delays or denials. Avoid incomplete applications by thoroughly reviewing all required evidence, verifying document dates, and ensuring clear, legible copies to prevent processing errors.
What Documents are Necessary for Renewal of DACA Status? Infographic
