To renew a DACA application, applicants must submit Form I-821D, Consideration of Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals, along with Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization, and Form I-765WS, Worksheet. Supporting documents include proof of continuous residence in the U.S., such as school, employment, or medical records, and evidence of identity like a passport or driver's license. It is crucial to provide updated photos and pay the required fees to avoid delays in processing the renewal.
What Documents Are Needed for a DACA Renewal Application?
| Number | Name | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | I-821D Supporting Evidence Packet | The I-821D Supporting Evidence Packet for a DACA renewal application must include proof of continuous residency, such as school records, medical records, or employment pay stubs dated within the appropriate timeframe. Applicants also need to submit a copy of their current Employment Authorization Document (EAD) and evidence of identity, typically a government-issued ID or passport. |
| 2 | Proof of Continuous Residence Updates | Proof of continuous residence for a DACA renewal requires updated documentation such as recent rent receipts, utility bills, school records, or employment pay stubs demonstrating presence in the U.S. since the last approval. USCIS typically requests evidence covering the entire renewal period to verify ongoing eligibility and prevent gaps in residency documentation. |
| 3 | Biometrics Appointment Letter (ASC Notice) | The Biometrics Appointment Letter (ASC Notice) is a crucial document for a DACA renewal application, specifying the date, time, and location for fingerprinting and photo capture required by USCIS. Applicants must bring this notice to the appointment, along with a valid photo ID, to complete the biometric services necessary for identity verification and background checks. |
| 4 | Recent Employment Authorization Documents (EADs) | Recent Employment Authorization Documents (EADs) are critical for a DACA renewal application, requiring submission of the most current Form I-766 to prove continued legal work status. Applicants must also include previous EADs to demonstrate ongoing eligibility and uninterrupted protected status under DACA guidelines. |
| 5 | Updated Proof of Identity (Real ID-compliant) | Updated proof of identity for a DACA renewal application must be Real ID-compliant, including a valid state-issued driver's license or identification card that meets the Department of Homeland Security's standards. Applicants should ensure their documents reflect current name, date of birth, and photo to comply with USCIS requirements for verification and approval. |
| 6 | State-specific Residency Amendments | DACA renewal applicants must submit proof of continuous residence tailored to state-specific residency requirements, including utility bills, school records, or lease agreements from that state. Accurate documentation reflecting state amendments ensures eligibility and compliance with local immigration standards for successful renewal processing. |
| 7 | Electronic Case Update Printouts (USCIS Account) | Electronic Case Update Printouts from the USCIS account provide a detailed record of an applicant's DACA renewal status, confirming receipt and processing milestones essential for maintaining application continuity. Including these printouts in a DACA renewal submission ensures accurate tracking and serves as official proof of ongoing case evaluation by USCIS. |
| 8 | Social Media Activity Statements (in select reviews) | Social Media Activity Statements are required as part of the DACA renewal application to verify the applicant's online presence within the past five years, including account handles and any previous names used. Providing accurate and complete social media information helps USCIS assess eligibility and detect any potential security risks during the renewal process. |
| 9 | Proof of New Educational Enrollment or Graduation | Required documents for DACA renewal include proof of new educational enrollment, such as an official school transcript or recent enrollment verification letter, or proof of graduation like a diploma or certificate. These documents confirm continuous educational progress, crucial for meeting DACA renewal criteria. |
| 10 | COVID-19-related Deadline Extension Notices | DACA renewal applicants must submit Form I-821D, Form I-765, and Form I-765 Worksheet along with their previous DACA approval notices, proof of continuous residence, identity documents, and recent COVID-19-related deadline extension notices issued by USCIS. These extension notices temporarily allow late submissions due to pandemic disruptions, ensuring applicants maintain protection during renewal processing delays. |
Introduction to DACA Renewal Documentation
Renewing your DACA status requires submitting specific documentation to verify eligibility and maintain protection. Understanding which documents are necessary helps ensure a smooth and successful renewal process.
- Proof of Identity - Documents such as a passport, school ID, or birth certificate confirm your identity for the renewal application.
- Evidence of Continuous Residence - Documents proving physical presence in the U.S. since the original DACA approval, like school records or utility bills.
- Previous DACA Approval Notice - The initial approval notice (Form I-797) demonstrates prior DACA status, essential for renewal eligibility.
Importance of Accurate DACA Application Forms
What documents are needed for a DACA renewal application? Accurate completion of DACA application forms ensures timely processing and reduces the risk of denial. Essential documents include a completed Form I-821D, Form I-765 for work authorization, and Form I-765 Worksheet, along with proof of identity and continuous residence.
Proof of Identity: Key Acceptable Documents
Proof of identity is crucial for a DACA renewal application to confirm the applicant's eligibility and personal details. USCIS requires specific documents to establish identity clearly and reliably.
Key acceptable documents include a valid passport, a national identity card bearing a photo, or a driver's license issued by a U.S. state. Other valid proofs can be a school or military ID, or a government-issued document containing a photo and identifying information.
Evidence of Arrival and Continuous Residence
To renew a DACA application, applicants must provide evidence of their initial arrival in the United States before June 15, 2007. Acceptable documents include school records, medical records, or affidavits from individuals with knowledge of the applicant's presence. Proof of continuous residence requires submitting documents such as pay stubs, utility bills, or rental agreements covering the entire period since the initial DACA approval.
Documentation of Physical Presence Requirements
| Document Type | Purpose | Examples |
|---|---|---|
| Proof of Continuous Physical Presence | Demonstrate uninterrupted residence in the U.S. since the date specified by DACA guidelines | School records, medical records, pay stubs, bank statements, rental agreements |
| Evidence of Physical Presence on Key Dates | Confirm presence in the U.S. on or after June 15, 2007, and at the time of initial DACA approval | Utility bills, employment letters, dated affidavits from community members |
| Supporting Documents for Time Gaps | Account for any short absences to maintain continuous presence eligibility | Travel records, border crossing documents, official immigration records |
Records Demonstrating Educational Qualifications
When renewing a DACA application, applicants must provide documentation proving they continue to meet educational requirements. Records demonstrating educational qualifications are essential for verifying current enrollment or completion status.
- School Enrollment Verification - A recent letter or official document from the educational institution confirming active enrollment is necessary.
- High School Diploma or GED Certificate - Proof of high school completion through a diploma or GED certifies that the applicant meets basic education standards.
- Report Cards or Transcripts - Official transcripts or report cards from the past academic year demonstrate ongoing educational progress.
Criminal Background and Police Records
For a DACA renewal application, submitting up-to-date criminal background and police records is crucial. These documents demonstrate compliance with legal requirements and help USCIS assess your eligibility. Ensure you gather certified copies of any police reports, arrest records, or court dispositions related to your case.
Passport and Expired EAD Card Copies
Applicants renewing their DACA status must submit specific documents to verify identity and prior approval. Essential items include copies of a valid passport and the expired Employment Authorization Document (EAD) card.
The passport serves as a primary proof of identity and citizenship status, while the expired EAD card confirms previous DACA approval. Both documents must be clear and legible to avoid processing delays in the renewal application.
Proof of Previous DACA Approval
Proof of previous DACA approval is essential for a DACA renewal application. This document confirms your prior acceptance into the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals program.
Include the Notice of Action (Form I-797) showing initial DACA approval or the Employment Authorization Document (EAD) issued under DACA. These documents verify your eligibility for renewal and demonstrate continuous compliance with program requirements. Providing accurate proof of past approval helps avoid delays in processing your application.
What Documents Are Needed for a DACA Renewal Application? Infographic
