On May 13, 2024, the Office of the Citizenship and Immigration Services Ombudsman (CIS Ombudsman) issued a reminder that individuals who need to renew their Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) should file their renewal request as early as possible.
- USCIS recommends submitting DACA renewal requests 150 to 120 days (four to five months) before the expiration date of the current DACA approval notice (Form I-797, Notice of Action) and employment authorization document (EAD).
- Filing a renewal request during this timeframe reduces the risk that the current DACA and employment authorization will expire before USCIS makes a decision on the renewal request. Filing earlier than 150 days before the current DACA expiration will not result in a faster decision.
- File your renewal request online.
- Filing online allows applicants to track their case, respond to requests for evidence electronically, and communicate with USCIS through their online account. It may also save money.
- Make sure the request is complete. Before submitting a request:
- If submitting a paper form, use the most recent versions of Form I-821D, Consideration of Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals, Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization and the Form I-765 Worksheet. A new edition of Form I-765 went into effect on April 1, 2024.
- Review all the forms to ensure they are signed.
- Confirm the appropriate fees are being paid.
- As of April 1, 2024, the Form I-765 filing fee increased to $520 if filing the paper form and $470 if filing online.
- The Form I-821D filing fee will remain $85. If filing a paper form, include separate checks or money orders for the Form I-765 and Form I-821D filing fees.
Processing Times
Applicants should visit USCIS’ Check Case Processing Times page to check its processing times for Form I-821D and Form I-765. USCIS will not adjudicate a DACA-based Form I-765 until after it makes a decision on the Form I-821D DACA renewal request.
Applicants may request an expedite of their DACA renewal request in emergencies or unforeseen circumstances. Please see USCIS’ Immigration Relief in Emergencies or Unforeseen Circumstances page.
Erickson Insights & Analysis
Erickson Immigration Group will continue to monitor developments and share updates as more news is available. Please contact your employer or EIG attorney if you have questions about anything we’re reporting above or case-specific questions.