How to Apply for DACA (2025 Renewal Guide)

Updated October 2025 — BorderWire.com

Renewals are still being accepted by USCIS in 2025. New (first-time) DACA applications are not being approved yet, but renewals continue as normal. Always double-check the latest information on USCIS.gov before filing.

Who This Guide Is For

If you already have DACA and your protection is about to expire, this guide is for you. If your DACA expired more than a year ago, the process may be different. Read carefully and don’t skip the “What if My DACA Expired” section below.

This guide answers common questions — even the small ones you might feel silly asking — and walks you through everything step by step.

Step 1: When Should I Renew?

The best time to renew is 4–5 months before your current DACA expires. This gives USCIS time to process your forms so your work permit doesn’t lapse.

Common Questions

• Can I renew a year early? You can, but it’s not recommended. Your new approval will start from the approval date, not your current expiration date — meaning you could lose time on your current DACA period.
• I missed the 5-month window. Am I in trouble? No, just apply as soon as possible. There may be a short gap in your work authorization, but renewing late is still better than not renewing at all.
• How do I check when my DACA expires? Look at your EAD (work permit). The “Card Expires” date tells you when your DACA ends.
• Does USCIS remind me when to renew? No, you’re responsible for tracking your expiration and filing on time.

Step 2: Gather Everything You Need

Before starting your renewal, collect these:

• Your current or expired EAD (work permit)
• Your most recent I-821D and I-797 approval notices
• Any new addresses since your last renewal
• Government-issued ID (passport or license)
• If applicable, copies of court or police records since your last approval

Common Questions

• Do I need to resend school or arrival proof? Not for renewals. You only need that if USCIS specifically asks.
• What if I moved? Include your new address on the form and file a Change of Address (Form AR-11) immediately.
• I had a traffic ticket. Should I mention it? Yes. Always be honest. Even minor offenses should be listed if asked.
• Can I still apply if I traveled without permission? Possibly, but you should speak to an immigration attorney first — unauthorized travel can affect eligibility.

Step 3: Choose How to File (Online or Mail)

Option 1: File Online
Create or log into your USCIS account. You’ll complete Form I-821D (DACA), Form I-765 (work permit), and upload the I-765WS worksheet.

Option 2: File by Mail
Download fresh forms from USCIS.gov. Complete I-821D, I-765, and I-765WS. Include two passport photos and a check or money order. Send it to the correct USCIS lockbox for your state.

Common Questions

• Where do I get the forms? Always from USCIS.gov. Avoid third-party websites — old versions can cause rejections.
• Can I staple the pages? No. Use paper clips so USCIS can scan them easily.
• Can someone else mail it for me? Yes, but make sure your name and address are the same on all forms. Keep your own copies.
• Can I file both online and by mail “just in case”? No. Only one method — duplicates will slow things down or cause rejection.

Step 4: Pay the Fees

As of 2025, DACA renewal fees are typically around $555 online or $605 by mail. Always confirm with the USCIS Fee Calculator before you pay.

Payment Options

• Online: Pay directly with credit/debit card or bank withdrawal through your USCIS account.
• By Mail: Use a money order or check made out to “U.S. Department of Homeland Security.”

Common Questions

• Is the fee still $495? No. USCIS updated fees in 2024. It’s slightly higher now.
• Are there any fee waivers? Not for DACA. Fee exemptions exist only in rare, pre-approved cases.
• Can I split the fee into payments? No. USCIS does not offer payment plans.
• What happens if my check bounces? USCIS will reject your application. Always double-check the amount and spelling on your payment.

Step 5: Fill Out the Forms Correctly

You’ll complete three forms: I-821D, I-765, and I-765WS. Follow each instruction carefully. For renewals, you only update information that changed since your last application.

Common Questions

• What do I put for “Current Immigration Status” on I-765? Most people write “No Lawful Status.”
• What should I write if I moved? Put your current address — not your old one.
• Do I need to write anything on the back of the forms? No. Only fill the sections USCIS requests.
• What if I make a small mistake? Cross it out neatly, correct it, and initial it. Don’t use white-out.

Step 6: Submit and Track Your Case

After filing, USCIS will send you a receipt notice (Form I-797C). You can check your case status online at USCIS Case Status.

Common Questions

• How long does it take? Around 3–5 months, but timing varies by case.
• Will I get fingerprinted again? USCIS sometimes reuses your old biometrics. If they need new ones, they’ll send an appointment letter.
• Can I travel while waiting? Only if you already have an approved Advance Parole document.
• Can I keep working while it’s pending? Yes — if your current EAD hasn’t expired. Once it does, you must pause work until the new card arrives.

Step 7: If Your DACA Expired

If your DACA expired less than a year ago, you can still file a renewal. If it’s been more than a year, USCIS considers it a “new” request — and new approvals are currently paused. You can still file, but it won’t be approved until further notice.

Common Questions

• Should I still file if it’s been more than a year? Possibly, so you’re ready if approvals reopen — but talk to an attorney first.
• Will filing hurt my record? No, but it won’t grant you any new protection until USCIS resumes processing initial cases.
• Can I lose my old work permit while waiting? Once expired, your work authorization ends until renewed.

Step 8: Advance Parole for DACA

DACA holders can request Advance Parole to travel abroad for education, employment, or humanitarian reasons using Form I-131. Never travel without approved Advance Parole.

Common Questions

• Can I use Advance Parole for vacation? No — only for approved reasons like studying abroad or visiting an ill relative.
• How long can I stay outside the U.S.? Usually 1–3 months, but return before your DACA or AP document expires.
• Will I be guaranteed re-entry? No. CBP officers make the final decision at the border.

Step 9: Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Using outdated forms — always download the latest versions.
• Filing too late — start at least 4 months before expiration.
• Paying the wrong fee — confirm using the official calculator.
• Forgetting to sign your forms — unsigned packets get rejected.
• Leaving questions blank — write “N/A” or “None” where applicable.

Mini-Questions

• Can I fix a mistake after mailing? If you realize it quickly, call USCIS or consult an attorney — you may need to resubmit.
• How do I know USCIS got my packet? Use the tracking number or sign up for email/text alerts with Form G-1145.
• What if I move after applying? File an address change (Form AR-11) within 10 days.

Step 10: Stay Updated

Policy around DACA can change. Bookmark these pages and check monthly:

• USCIS DACA Hub
• DACA Explained (BorderWire)
• Advance Parole Guide
• Know Your Rights

This article is for general educational purposes only and not legal advice. For help with your specific situation, contact a licensed immigration attorney or DOJ-accredited representative.