If you’re a current DACA recipient, you already know how important it is to stay on top of your renewal. With work authorization, protection from deportation, and so much of your daily life tied to that approval, letting your DACA lapse—even for a short time—can lead to serious stress. And with the program’s uncertain legal status, knowing the latest guidance really matters.
At Tourzani & Long, LLC, we’ve helped people with DACA renewals since the beginning of the program. Whether it’s your first renewal or your fifth, here’s what you need to know about keeping your status active and avoiding unnecessary problems.
When Should You Renew DACA?
USCIS recommends that you submit your renewal between 120 and 150 days before your current DACA expires. That’s about four to five months in advance. Renew too early, and USCIS might reject your application. Wait too long, and you risk a gap in your work authorization.
We’ve seen clients come to us with only a few weeks left on their current permit, scrambling to keep their job or stay in school without interruption. Don’t cut it close—start preparing early.
What You’ll Need to File
To renew your DACA and work permit, you must submit:
- Form I-821D (Consideration of Deferred Action)
- Form I-765 (Application for Employment Authorization)
- Form I-765WS (Worksheet explaining your economic need)
- Filing fee of $495, unless you’re eligible for a fee exemption
- Two passport-style photos
- Copies of your previous approval notices and work permit
If your name, address, or immigration history has changed since your last filing, be sure to update your forms. And while USCIS doesn’t usually ask for supporting documents for renewals, it’s still smart to have a clean and complete file ready in case they do.
What Happens If You File Late?
If you submit your renewal after your DACA expires, you may not qualify for a standard renewal. USCIS might treat it as a first-time application—which, under current court orders, is not being processed.
In that situation, you could lose your ability to work legally, and your deportation protection could lapse. That doesn’t mean you’ll be deported immediately—but it does mean you’re in a more vulnerable position. We always advise filing on time and keeping copies of every receipt and notice.
How Long Does It Take?
Renewals are currently taking anywhere from 3 to 6 months, though it can vary depending on your location and whether your application has any issues. That’s why that 4–5 month window is so important.
If your current EAD is about to expire and you haven’t received your new card yet, there’s no automatic extension for DACA holders. That means your employer may not be able to keep you on the job once your work permit expires, even if your renewal is pending.
Some clients ask about expediting their case. While USCIS allows expedite requests in limited situations—like serious financial loss or medical emergencies—it’s not guaranteed and requires strong documentation.
Be Careful With Travel
DACA holders can only travel internationally with advance parole, and even then, it’s limited to certain purposes—like school, work, or humanitarian reasons. If you’re planning to apply for advance parole during your DACA renewal, make sure your DACA is valid and not close to expiring before you leave the U.S.
We’ve helped people prepare successful advance parole requests, but it requires planning. Travel without advance parole puts your return to the U.S. at serious risk, even if you’ve been here for years.
Keep an Eye on the Legal Climate
DACA remains under legal challenge, and while renewals are still allowed as of now, that could change with another court ruling. We don’t say this to scare people, but to emphasize how important it is to renew as early as allowed, keep records of everything, and know your backup options in case the program changes again.
In some cases, DACA recipients may now qualify for permanent relief through marriage to a U.S. citizen, employment-based sponsorship, asylum, or other routes. It’s always worth asking whether there’s a longer-term option beyond DACA.
We’re Here to Help You Keep DACA Active
Renewing DACA might feel like just another round of paperwork, but it’s a lifeline. At Tourzani & Long, LLC, we’ve guided people through renewals year after year, and we know how to handle the small things that can slow down a case—or worse, get it denied.
If your DACA is expiring soon, or if you have questions about changes in your status, new travel plans, or exploring other options, visit tourzanilaw.com. We welcome inquiries from all backgrounds and are here to help you stay protected and prepared—every step of the way.