To renew DACA, 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. They also need to provide evidence demonstrating continuous residence and physical presence in the U.S., such as school records, pay stubs, or medical documents. Proof of identity, like a copy of a government-issued ID or passport, is essential to complete the renewal process.
What Documents Are Required for DACA Renewal?
| Number | Name | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | DACA Renewal Checklist | The DACA Renewal Checklist includes Form I-821D (Consideration of Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals), Form I-765 (Application for Employment Authorization), and Form I-765WS (Worksheet). Applicants must also submit a copy of the previous DACA approval notice, recent passport-style photographs, government-issued identification, and any documents showing continuous residence and physical presence in the U.S. since the last DACA approval. |
| 2 | Form I-821D Submission | Form I-821D submission is essential for DACA renewal, requiring accurate personal information and evidence of continuous residence since the original approval. Supporting documents include a completed Form I-821D, a valid Form I-765 for work authorization renewal, and proof of identity such as a government-issued ID. |
| 3 | Supporting Evidence Packet | The DACA renewal process requires submitting a Supporting Evidence Packet that includes proof of continuous residence, identity, and employment or education status during the previous DACA period. Key documents typically consist of utility bills, school records, pay stubs, and government-issued identification to demonstrate eligibility for renewal. |
| 4 | Proof of Continuous Residence | Proof of continuous residence for DACA renewal requires submitting documentation such as school records, employment pay stubs, lease agreements, utility bills, or medical records demonstrating residence in the United States since the initial DACA approval; these documents must cover the entire period without significant gaps. Consistent evidence is essential to meet U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) standards and avoid delays or denial of the renewal application. |
| 5 | Identity Documentation Update | Renewing DACA requires submitting updated identity documentation, including a valid government-issued photo ID such as a passport, driver's license, or state ID card to verify the applicant's identity. Applicants must also provide their most recent DACA approval notice (Form I-797) alongside evidence supporting continuous residence and physical presence in the United States. |
| 6 | Updated Employment Authorization Documents (EAD) | Renewal of DACA requires submitting updated Employment Authorization Documents (EAD) including Form I-765 along with evidence of continuous residence and identity. Recent updates emphasize providing current Form I-765 with category code (C33) and supporting documents such as previous EAD cards and proof of employment or education. |
| 7 | Affidavit of Absence Explanations | For DACA renewal, submitting an Affidavit of Absence Explanation is crucial when applicants have periods outside the United States during the eligibility period; this affidavit must detail the reasons for absences, including dates and locations. Proper documentation supporting these explanations, such as travel records or emergency circumstances, enhances the renewal application's credibility and compliance with USCIS requirements. |
| 8 | Social Media Verification Commentary | For DACA renewal, key documents include a completed Form I-821D, proof of continuous residence, and evidence of education or military service. Social media verification commentary highlights the importance of providing accurate online presence information, as USCIS may review social media profiles for identity confirmation and background checks during the renewal process. |
| 9 | Biometrics Appointment Notice | The Biometrics Appointment Notice is a crucial document required for DACA renewal, as it schedules the applicant for fingerprinting and photograph collection to verify identity and conduct background checks. Applicants must bring this notice along with their original DACA approval notice and valid identification to the appointment to ensure timely processing of their renewal. |
| 10 | Fee Waiver Request Letter | A Fee Waiver Request Letter for DACA renewal must clearly explain financial hardship and include supporting evidence such as income statements, tax returns, or proof of public benefits. USCIS requires this letter to justify the waiver of the $495 filing fee, ensuring eligible applicants can maintain their Deferred Action status without undue financial burden. |
Overview of DACA Renewal Document Requirements
To renew DACA, applicants must submit specific documents to demonstrate continuous residency and eligibility. Required documents typically include a completed Form I-821D, Form I-765, and Form I-765 Worksheet, along with proof of identity such as a passport or driver's license. Supporting evidence like employment records, school transcripts, or lease agreements helps verify ongoing eligibility for renewal.
Personal Identification Documents Needed
Personal identification documents play a crucial role in the DACA renewal process. These documents verify the applicant's identity and ensure compliance with U.S. immigration requirements.
- Government-issued photo ID - A valid passport or state identification card is necessary to confirm the applicant's identity.
- Current DACA approval notice - This document demonstrates the applicant's authorized deferred action status and eligibility for renewal.
- Birth certificate - A certified copy helps establish personal identity and birth details for verification purposes.
Providing accurate and current personal identification documents is essential for a successful DACA renewal application.
Proof of Continuous Residency
What documents are needed to prove continuous residency for DACA renewal? You must provide evidence showing you have lived in the U.S. continuously since your initial DACA approval. Acceptable documents include utility bills, school records, pay stubs, and medical records dated within the required time frame.
Evidence of Physical Presence in the U.S.
| Document Type | Description | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| School Records | Report cards, transcripts, attendance records | Demonstrates continuous physical presence and enrollment in U.S. educational institutions |
| Medical Records | Doctor or hospital visit documentation, immunization records | Provides proof of physical presence through dated medical services received in the U.S. |
| Employment Records | Pay stubs, W-2 forms, employment verification letters | Confirms physical presence via documented work history and income |
| Rental or Lease Agreements | Leases, rent receipts, utility bills | Shows proof of residence in the U.S. over time |
| Financial Records | Bank statements, money transfer receipts | Verifies ongoing physical presence through financial activity |
| Affidavits | Sworn statements from family, friends, or community leaders | Supports claims of physical presence when other evidence is limited |
| Travel Records | Passport entries, boarding passes, I-94 arrival/departure records | Documents entry into and presence within the U.S. during the qualifying period |
Documentation of DACA Eligibility Criteria
Renewing DACA requires careful documentation that proves you continue to meet the program's eligibility criteria. Gathering all necessary evidence ensures a smooth application process without delays or denials.
- Proof of Identity - Provide valid photo identification such as a passport, driver's license, or school ID to verify your identity.
- Continuous Residence Evidence - Submit documents like school records, leases, or employment pay stubs demonstrating residency in the U.S. since your initial DACA approval.
- Education or Military Service Records - Include transcripts, diplomas, or enlistment papers that confirm you are currently enrolled in school, graduated, or honorably served in the military as required by DACA guidelines.
Employment Authorization and Work Records
Renewing DACA requires submitting documentation that verifies your identity and continuous residence in the United States. Employment authorization and work records are critical components to confirm ongoing eligibility and work history.
- Employment Authorization Document (EAD) - A copy of your current or most recent EAD must be included to prove your existing work authorization.
- Proof of Employment - Pay stubs, employer letters, or tax records serve as evidence of your work history during the DACA period.
- Tax Returns and W-2 Forms - These documents help establish consistent employment and earnings as required by DACA renewal guidelines.
Criminal History Documentation
Applicants seeking DACA renewal must submit specific documents to verify their eligibility, including those related to their criminal history. Proper documentation helps USCIS assess any factors that might affect the renewal decision.
Criminal history documentation includes certified court records, police reports, and official disposition letters for any arrests or convictions. Applicants must provide detailed evidence of all encounters with law enforcement since their last DACA approval. Accurate and complete documentation ensures transparent evaluation and increases the chances of successful renewal.
School Records and Educational Certificates
School records are essential for DACA renewal as they verify continuous enrollment or recent education status. These documents may include transcripts, report cards, or a letter from a school official confirming attendance. Educational certificates such as diplomas or GED certificates further support eligibility by demonstrating academic achievement.
Required Forms and Filing Instructions
To renew your DACA status, you must submit Form I-821D, Consideration of Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals, along with Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization. These forms are essential to demonstrate your continued eligibility for deferred action and work authorization.
Filing instructions require submitting the completed forms to the USCIS Lockbox facility specified in the official guidance, either by mail or electronically if allowed. Ensure all supporting evidence, including a copy of your current Employment Authorization Document (EAD) and proof of identity, accompany your application to avoid delays.
What Documents Are Required for DACA Renewal? Infographic
