On April 12, 2022, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) announced that DACA renewals can now be submitted online. Current DACA recipients must first create a USCIS online account before submitting Forms I-821D (DACA) and I-765 (work authorization) online.
Online accounts provide a quick and easy way to submit forms, pay fees and track the status of your USCIS application. Original DACA applications have not been processed at this time. This article not only lets you know how to renew DACA online, but also shows you how to fund the renewal.
Digitizing DACA
Recipients of DACA – a program designed to protect certain young people who were brought to the U.S. illegally as children – can now update their identity online.
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) said Tuesday that the move is part of a broader effort to digitize federal agency processes.
“Expanding online filing is a top priority for USCIS as we make our operations more efficient for the agency and for our stakeholders, complainants, petitioners and petitioners,” USCIS Director Ur M. Jaddou said in a statement. “The option to file a DACA renewal application online is part of USCIS’ ongoing efforts to reduce reliance on paper records and continue the transition to an electronic environment.”
The online application option is only available to applicants renewing their DACA status. New applicants will still need to submit a paper application.
How to fund your renewal?
Paying DACA and the $495 work permit renewal fee can be a barrier when deciding to renew. Learn about some recommended financial resources and tips that can help you pay for DACA.
- Look for help locally
Use the Informed Immigrant DACA clinic map to find DACA renewal clinics in your area.
Use the Informed Immigrant Legal Services Directory to find pro bono legal services near you.
If you are a DACA beneficiary of Mexican ancestry, please contact your consulate for immigration control, or call 1-216-696-6170 or choose personalized legal assistance by booking online or finding a local Mexican Consulate listing .
- Personal Fundraising
Start a personal fundraising page on GoFundMe that has begun an effort to help DACA recipients fund renewal costs.
Send letters and emails to select friends or family members.
Instead of giving your birthday gift, ask for money to cover the cost of renewing your application.
- Institutional Support
Talk to your employer and ask if they can pay for your renewal to minimize your risk of work interruption while you await DACA and work permit renewal decisions.
If you are a member of a religious group, please contact your place of worship, they may be willing to help you.
If you are a student, please contact your Diversity and Inclusion, Dream Center or Financial Aid Office for emergency assistance programs.
Apply for the United We Dream DACA renewal fund.
Consider the Mission Asset Fund DACA Fee Assistance Program.
How to renew DACA?
DACA status is valid for two years. USCIS recommends that you submit your DACA renewal application 120 to 150 days before your current DACA expires.
Applicants must complete and sign Forms I-821D (“Deferred Action Consideration for Childhood Arrivals”) and Form I-765 (“Application for Employment Authorization”). The renewal fee is $495.
To submit both forms online, you must first create a USCIS online account where you can also pay the government fee and track the status of your application.
Frequently Asked Questions
When do I need to renew my membership?
Previously, USCIS recommended that DACA recipients submit renewals within 120-150 days of the expiration of their current DACA. While USCIS no longer denies renewals longer than 150 days, we know that they will wait 150 days to begin processing applications.
Can I apply for DACA for the first time?
As of June 16, 2021, USCIS will no longer process new DACA applications, but will accept and hold them. Here’s what they said, “USCIS will continue to accept initial DACA applications.
If you file your initial DACA application with USCIS on or after July 16, 2021, you will receive a receipt notice and USCIS will process your DACA application. Pay. However, USCIS will not adjudicate your application while the court order is still in effect.
Has the DACA renewal fee changed?
The USCIS filing fee for DACA renewals remains at $495
My DACA has expired. Is it too late to renew?
If your DACA expires in less than a year, you can still apply for renewal as usual. Do not let your DACA expire.
If you have DACA, but your DACA expired more than a year ago, you will need to file for renewal as you did for the original filing.
However, the Texas judge’s order does not allow USCIS to actually process initial DACA applications, including those who filed initial applications because DACA expired more than a year ago.
Although USCIS has stated that it will accept the original DACA application, it cannot process your case. You should seriously consider speaking with an attorney or DOJ-accredited representative and begin collecting your documents.
For more information or assistance, please call 1-216-696-6170 to schedule a personal consultation with attorney Richard Herman, or book online. Consultations can be done via Zoom, Skype, WhatsApp, facetime or at the office.
