5 Steps Renew DACA

Introduction to DACA Renewal

The Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program has been a lifeline for thousands of young immigrants, providing them with temporary relief from deportation and the opportunity to work legally in the United States. For those who have already been granted DACA status, renewal is a crucial step to maintain their benefits. In this post, we will guide you through the 5 steps to renew your DACA status, ensuring you can continue to live and work in the U.S. without interruption.

Step 1: Determine Your Eligibility

Before starting the renewal process, it’s essential to confirm your eligibility. To be eligible for DACA renewal, you must:

• Have been granted DACA status previously
• Have not left the United States without advance parole since August 15, 2012
• Have not been convicted of a felony, a significant misdemeanor, or three or more other misdemeanors
• Do not pose a threat to national security or public safety

Make sure you meet these requirements before proceeding with your application.

Step 2: Gather Required Documents

To apply for DACA renewal, you will need to submit several documents, including:

• Form I-821D, Consideration of Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals
• Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization
• Form I-765WS, Worksheet for Calculating Maximum Aggregate Period of Stay for Foreign Students
• Copies of your previous DACA approval notice and employment authorization document (EAD)
• Proof of identity, such as a valid passport or state ID
• Proof of educational enrollment or graduation, if applicable

Ensure all documents are up-to-date and accurate to avoid delays or rejection.

Step 3: Complete and Submit Your Application

Once you have gathered all the necessary documents, you can proceed to complete and submit your application. Fill out the forms carefully, and make sure to:

• Sign your application in the designated areas
• Submit the required fee for Form I-765 (currently $410)
• Make a copy of your application and supporting documents for your records

You can submit your application online or by mail, but be aware that online applications are typically processed faster.

Step 4: Attend a Biometrics Appointment (If Required)

After submitting your application, you may be scheduled for a biometrics appointment at a local Application Support Center (ASC). This appointment is mandatory, and you must attend it to have your fingerprints and other biometric data collected. During the appointment:

• Bring a valid government-issued ID and any other required documents
• Be prepared to provide your fingerprints and other biometric data
• Ask questions or raise concerns with the ASC staff if needed

The biometrics appointment is an essential step in the renewal process, so make sure to attend it as scheduled.

Step 5: Receive Your Renewal Decision

After submitting your application and attending the biometrics appointment (if required), you will need to wait for a decision on your renewal. This can take several months, so be patient and:

• Check your application status online or by contacting the USCIS Contact Center
• Be prepared to receive a decision notice in the mail, which will indicate whether your renewal has been approved or denied
• Review the notice carefully and follow any additional instructions or requirements

If your renewal is approved, you will receive a new EAD and can continue to live and work in the United States under DACA.

📝 Note: It's essential to apply for renewal between 150 and 120 days before your current DACA status expires to avoid any gaps in your benefits.

To help you stay organized, here is a summary of the documents you will need to submit:

Document	Description
Form I-821D	Consideration of Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals
Form I-765	Application for Employment Authorization
Form I-765WS	Worksheet for Calculating Maximum Aggregate Period of Stay for Foreign Students
Copies of previous DACA approval notice and EAD	Proof of previous DACA status and employment authorization
Proof of identity	Valid passport or state ID
Proof of educational enrollment or graduation	Transcripts or diploma, if applicable

In the end, renewing your DACA status is a crucial step in maintaining your benefits and continuing to live and work in the United States. By following these 5 steps and staying informed about the latest developments and requirements, you can ensure a smooth and successful renewal process. Remember to stay organized, and don’t hesitate to seek help if you need it.