do you need a cover letter for daca renewal

• Immigration

Guide to Writing an Effective DACA Renewal Cover Letter: Tips, USCIS Application Process, and Eligibility

A daca renewal cover letter is not required but recommended when applying for uscis' deferred action for childhood arrivals program. it can help explain unique circumstances and serve as an organizational tool. the cover letter should include the uscis lockbox address, date, subject line, greeting, a brief introduction, an ordered list of application contents, a closing paragraph, and the applicant's signature. supporting documents such as a photo id, form i-765, form i-765ws, and a copy of the current work permit should also be included in the application package. the filing fee is $495 and can be paid by money order or credit card. it is important to write the cover letter clearly, without stapling any documents, and using certified mail for submission..

Key Takeaways:

• Understanding DACA and Its Renewal Process: Learn about DACA, its benefits, and how to renew your status to stay protected and work legally in the U.S.
• Importance of a DACA Renewal Cover Letter: A cover letter helps organize your application and provides crucial information to USCIS officers.
• DACA Renewal Application Tips: Follow guidelines, include essential documents, pay the fee, and ensure clear communication with USCIS for a successful application.

Understanding DACA and Its Renewal Process

Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) is a policy that provides eligible undocumented immigrants with work permits and protection from deportation. The DACA status is granted for two years and can be renewed. To remain in this program, it’s vital to understand the DACA renewal cover letter and the USCIS application process.

The Importance of a DACA Renewal Cover Letter

While not mandatory, a DACA renewal cover letter is highly recommended. It helps organize your application and ensures that the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) officers have all the information they need to review your case. A cover letter can be especially beneficial if you have a complex situation that requires further explanation.

“A cover letter makes it easier for a USCIS officer to review your application without overlooking anything important.”

Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals Eligibility

To be eligible for DACA renewal, you must:

• Have previously been granted DACA status.
• Renew within a year of your last DACA status expiring, or else submit a new application.
• Have an upcoming DACA expiration date that is less than a year away.
• Not have left the U.S. without advance parole since your initial DACA acceptance.
• Have continuously resided in the U.S. since the last approved DACA application.
• Have no disqualifying criminal records.

For more detailed information on the eligibility criteria, visit the official USCIS DACA page.

Also of Interest:

Essential health insurance tips for digital nomads, required documents for schengen visa, crafting your daca renewal cover letter.

A well-prepared cover letter should include:

• The USCIS lockbox address where you’re mailing your application.
• The current date.
• A subject line with the purpose of the letter (e.g., “RE: Request for DACA Renewal”).
• A formal greeting.
• An introduction stating the purpose of the package.
• A list of enclosed documents.
• A conclusion with your contact information, followed by your signature and name.

Essential Documents to Include with Your Renewal Application

To renew your DACA status, you need several key documents:

• Photo identification, such as a birth certificate, school, or military ID.
• Two passport photos.
• Completed Form I-765 (Application for Employment Authorization).
• Completed Form I-765WS (Employment Authorization Worksheet).
• A copy of your current work permit (front and back).

Further details on the required documents can be found on the USCIS website.

Fee Payment for DACA Renewal

The DACA renewal process includes a $495 filing fee. Payment can be made via money orders payable to the “U.S. Department of Homeland Security” or by credit card using Form G-1450.

DACA Renewal Sample Cover Letter Template

Below is a sample cover letter template for a DACA renewal application. Remember, it’s important to personalize and adjust the template to your specific circumstances and include any relevant details about your situation.

[Your Name][Your Address][City, State, ZIP Code][Your Email Address][Your Phone Number][Date]

U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services[USCIS Service Center Address][City, State, ZIP Code]

Subject: DACA Renewal Application

Dear Sir/Madam,

I am writing to submit my application for the renewal of my Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) status. My current DACA status is set to expire on [Expiration Date], and I am seeking to maintain my eligibility for work authorization and protection from deportation.

Enclosed with this letter are the required forms and documents for my renewal application:

• Form I-821D, Consideration of Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals

Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization

Form I-765WS, Worksheet

Copy of my current Employment Authorization Document (EAD)

Two passport-style photographs

[Any other supporting documents, if applicable]

I have been a beneficiary of the DACA program since [Year of Initial Approval], and it has significantly impacted my life in a positive manner. Through DACA, I have been able to [mention specific benefits, such as work, education, community involvement].

[Include a paragraph about your personal story, background, educational achievements, community service, or work experience that may strengthen your application. Explain how DACA has helped you and why its continuation is important for your future.]

I respectfully request that my DACA status be renewed, allowing me to continue contributing positively to my community and the United States. I am committed to upholding the responsibilities that come with this status and am hopeful for a favorable decision.

Thank you for considering my application. If there are any questions or if additional information is required, please feel free to contact me at [Your Phone Number] or via email at [Your Email Address].

[Your Name]

This template is a basic guide and should be tailored to fit your individual situation. Be sure to review all requirements and provide all necessary documentation as outlined by USCIS for DACA renewals.

Tips for a Successful DACA Renewal Application

• Write your cover letter clearly and type it up if possible to facilitate easy reading and comprehension.
• Do not staple your documents—use paper clips instead.
• Mail your application package via certified mail for tracking and proof of delivery.

Remember, your cover letter is your chance to communicate directly with USCIS, increasing the likelihood that your renewal is processed smoothly.

For a sample DACA renewal cover letter and additional tips on the USCIS application process, please refer to trusted resources and always keep updated with the latest immigration forms and guidelines directly from USCIS .

By maintaining an orderly application with a comprehensive cover letter, you’re taking a significant step towards securing your status under DACA and continuing your life in the United States with less uncertainty.

And there you have it! That’s everything you need to know about understanding DACA and its renewal process. So grab your pen, prepare your paperwork, and get ready to charm those USCIS officers with a killer cover letter. And hey, if you want more tips and tricks on navigating the immigration world, head over to visaverge.com. They’ve got all the juicy details to help you on your immigration journey. Good luck!

This Article in a Nutshell:

DACA provides work permits and protection from deportation. Understand the DACA renewal process. A cover letter is recommended to help USCIS officers review your case. Eligibility includes having been granted DACA status, renewing within a year of expiration, and continuously residing in the US. Include essential documents and a $495 filing fee. Follow tips for a successful application.

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For: Immigrants

• January 8, 2021
• Updated: September 15, 2021

How to set up your DACA Application Cover Letter

So I have completed all the forms, gathered all documentation necessary, I am ready to send in my DACA application package! What now?

When sending in your DACA application,  it is helpful to include a cover letter. This will help you keep your application organized and serve as a table of contents to the USCIS officer reviewing your documents to walk them through your package.

You can also use your cover letter as a checklist to ensure you have included all necessary forms and documents in your application package.

You cover letter should include:

• USCIS Lockbox Address where you’re sending your application.
• Date of letter
• A subject (re:) line
• A brief introductory paragraph/sentence to say what’s in the letter and package.
• A list of content in the application packet in order of inclusion in your packet.
• Closing, signature and printed name.

Remember not to staple any of the documents, use paper clips if necessary.

Only submit copies of your documents and the original forms, keep originals of all documents used for proof.

Mail in your package as certified mail.

Here is a sample letter that you can edit depending on what you are including in the packet:

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Frequently Asked Questions

ALERT: Court Decisions Regarding DACA

On Sept. 13, 2023, the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Texas issued a decision finding the DACA Final Rule unlawful and expanding the original July 16, 2021 injunction and order of vacatur to cover the Final Rule. However, the court maintained a partial stay of the order for “all DACA recipients who received their initial DACA status prior to July 16, 2021.” See the Memorandum and Order (PDF, 1.35 MB)  and Supplemental Order of Injunction (PDF, 72.53 KB) .

Accordingly, current grants of DACA and related Employment Authorization Documents (EADs) remain valid until they expire, unless individually terminated.  In accordance with this decision, USCIS will continue to accept and process DACA renewal requests and accompanying applications for employment authorization under the DACA regulations at 8 CFR 236.22 and 236.23, as it has since October 31, 2022. We will also continue to accept initial DACA requests, but in accordance with the District Court’s order, we will not process initial DACA requests. 

Current valid grants of DACA and related EADs will continue to be recognized as valid under the Final Rule. This means that individuals with DACA and related EADs do not have to submit a request for DACA or employment authorization until the appropriate time to seek renewal.

Please see the  DACA Litigation Information Page  for important updates and information related to court rulings on the DACA policy.

• What Is Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals?
• DACA Process
• Background Checks
• After USCIS Makes a Decision
• Initial Requests for DACA
• Renewal of DACA
• Criminal Convictions
• Employment Authorization
• Miscellaneous

I. General Information for All Requestors

A. what is deferred action for childhood arrivals.

As the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) continues to focus its enforcement resources on those who pose the greatest threat to homeland security, DHS will exercise prosecutorial discretion as appropriate to ensure that enforcement resources are not expended on individuals who do not fall into this category, such as individuals who came to the United States as children and meet other key guidelines. Individuals who demonstrate that they meet the guidelines below may request consideration of deferred action for childhood arrivals (DACA) for a period of 2 years, subject to renewal for a period of 2 years, and may be eligible for employment authorization.

We may approve a request for DACA only if we determine, in our sole discretion, that you meet each of the following threshold criteria and merit a favorable exercise of discretion:

• Were under the age of 31 as of June 15, 2012 (that is, you were born on or after June 16, 1981);
• Came to the United States before reaching your 16th birthday;
• Have continuously resided in the United States since June 15, 2007, up to the time of filing your request for DACA;
• Were physically present in the United States on June 15, 2012, and at the time you filed your request for DACA with USCIS;
• Had no lawful immigration status on June 15, 2012, and at the time you filed your request for DACA, meaning that:
• You never had a lawful immigration status on or before June 15, 2012*, or
• Any lawful immigration status or parole that you had before June 15, 2012, expired on or before June 15, 2012, and
• Any lawful status that you had after June 15, 2012, expired or otherwise terminated before you submitted your request for DACA;
• Are currently enrolled in school, have graduated or obtained a certificate of completion from high school, have obtained a General Educational Development (GED) certificate, or are an honorably discharged veteran of the U.S. Coast Guard or armed forces of the United States; and
• Have not been convicted of a felony, a misdemeanor described in 8 CFR 236.22(b)(6), or 3 or more other misdemeanors, and do not otherwise pose a threat to national security or public safety.

* Please review Q19 below if you are currently in a lawful immigration status.

You may call us at 800-375-5283 with questions or to request more information on DACA.  If you have a pending request, we have online self-help tools  you can use to check your case status and processing times, change your address, and send an inquiry about a case pending longer than posted processing times or about non-delivery of a card or document.

Q1: What is deferred action? A1: Deferred action is a discretionary determination to defer removal of an individual as an act of prosecutorial discretion. For purposes of future inadmissibility based on prior periods of  unlawful presence in the United States, an individual is not considered to be unlawfully present during the period when deferred action is in effect. An individual who has received deferred action is authorized by DHS to be in the United States for the duration of the deferred action period.  Deferred action recipients are also considered to be lawfully present as described in 8 C.F.R. sec. 1.3(a)(4)(vi) for purposes of eligibility for certain public benefits (such as certain Social Security benefits) during the period of deferred action. However, deferred action does not confer  lawful immigration status  upon an individual, nor does it excuse any previous or subsequent periods of unlawful presence they may have.

Under 8 CFR 274a.12(c)(33), an individual who has been granted deferred action under 8 CFR 236.21 through 236.23, Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals, may receive employment authorization for the period of deferred action, provided they can demonstrate “an economic necessity for employment.”

Under 8 CFR 236.23(d), we may terminate a grant of DACA at any time, at the agency’s discretion. Please see Q28 for more information.

Q2: What is DACA? A2: On June 15, 2012, the secretary of homeland security announced that certain people who came to the United States as children and meet several key guidelines may request consideration of deferred action for a period of 2 years, subject to renewal, and, if approved, will then be eligible for work authorization if they can demonstrate economic necessity. On Aug. 30, 2022, DHS issued the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) Final Rule to preserve and fortify the DACA policy. This rule, which puts into effect regulations at 8 CFR 236.21-236.25, rescinds and replaces the DACA guidance set forth in the 2012 Napolitano Memorandum. The final rule is effective as of Oct. 31, 2022.

Individuals who can demonstrate through verifiable documentation that they meet these guidelines will be considered for deferred action. We will make determinations on a case-by-case basis under the DACA final rule.

All guidance in these FAQs stems from the regulations at 8 CFR 236.21-236.25.

Q3: I currently have DACA. How does the DACA Final Rule impact me? A3: If you are a current DACA recipient, your grant of deferred action and related work authorization, as well as any DACA advance parole document issued, will remain in effect and will expire according to their existing terms. Any requests for renewals of those grants are now governed by the regulations at 8 CFR 236.21-236.25 and not the 2012 Napolitano Memorandum.

Q4: Is there any difference between “deferred action” and DACA under 8 CFR 236.21-236.25? A4: DACA is a form of deferred action. The relief an individual receives with a grant of DACA under 8 CFR 236.21-236.25 is identical for immigration purposes to the relief obtained by any person who receives deferred action as an act of prosecutorial discretion.

Q5: If my removal is deferred under the DACA final rule, am I eligible for employment authorization? A5: Yes. Under the regulations at 8 CFR 274a.12(c)(33) if you receive DACA under the DACA final rule, you may obtain employment authorization from USCIS provided you can demonstrate an economic necessity for employment.

Q6: If my case is deferred, am I in lawful status for the period of deferral? A6: No. Although action on your case has been deferred and you do not accrue unlawful presence (for admissibility purposes) during the period of deferred action, deferred action does not confer any lawful immigration status.

The fact that you are not accruing unlawful presence does not change that you are in unlawful status while you remain in the United States. However, although deferred action does not confer a lawful immigration status, you may stay in the United States while your deferred action is in effect. For admissibility purposes, you will not accrue “unlawful presence” while you have deferred action. You are also considered to be “lawfully present” in the United States while you have deferred action for purposes of certain public benefits (such as certain Social Security benefits) as described in 8 C.F.R. sec. 1.3(a)(4)(vi). Federal law does not prevent individuals granted deferred action from establishing domicile in the United States.

Apart from the immigration laws, “lawful presence,” “lawful status” and similar terms are used in various other federal and state laws. For information on how those laws affect individuals who receive a favorable exercise of prosecutorial discretion under DACA, please contact the appropriate federal, state, or local authorities.

Note: It is a federal crime for a noncitizen who is “illegally or unlawfully in the United States,” among others, to ship or transport in interstate or foreign commerce, or possess in or affecting commerce, any firearm or ammunition, or to receive any firearm or ammunition which has been shipped or transported in interstate or foreign commerce. See 18 U.S. 922(g)(5)(A). This prohibition applies to DACA recipients.

Q7: Can I renew my period of deferred action and employment authorization under DACA? A7: Yes. You may request consideration for a renewal of your DACA. We will consider your request for a renewal on a case-by-case basis under 8 CFR 236.22-23. If we renew our exercise of discretion under DACA for your case, you will receive deferred action for another 2 years, and if you show an economic necessity for employment, you may receive employment authorization for that period.

Return to top.

B. DACA Process

Q8: How do I request consideration of DACA? A8: To request consideration of DACA (either as an initial request or to request renewal), you must submit  Form I-821D, Consideration of Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals , to USCIS. Please visit the  Form I-821D  webpage before you begin the process to make sure you are using the most current version of the form available. You must complete this form, sign the form, and include the required filing fee. With Form I-821D you must also submit Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization , the required Form I-765 filing fee, and  Form I-765WS, Worksheet (PDF, 246.96 KB) , establishing your economic need for employment. You can find the filing fees for Forms I-821D and I-765 by vising our Fee Schedule page. If you fail to submit a completed Form I-765 (along with the worksheet and accompanying filing fees for that form, please see the Form I-821D page for more information), we will not consider your request for deferred action. Please read the form instructions to ensure you answer the appropriate questions (determined by whether you are submitting an initial or renewal request) and that you submit all the required documentation to support your initial request. If you are making an initial DACA request, you must file your request for consideration of DACA at the USCIS Lockbox. You can find the mailing address and instructions on the Form I-821D  webpage. After we receive your Form I-821D, Form I-765, and Form I-765 Worksheet, we will review them for completeness, including submission of the required fee, initial evidence and supporting documents (for initial filings). Pursuant to current court orders, we are accepting initial DACA requests but cannot adjudicate them at this time. If you are submitting a renewal DACA request, you may file your request at the USCIS Lockbox or online.

Instructions for Online Filing (DACA Renewal Requests Only)

DACA recipients may submit a DACA renewal request online. To file Form I-821D and Form I-765 online, you must first create a USCIS online account, which provides a convenient and secure method to submit Form I-821D, Form I-765 and Form I-765WS, pay fees, and track the status of any pending USCIS immigration request throughout the adjudication process. There is no cost to create an account, which offers a variety of features, including the ability to communicate with USCIS through a secure inbox and respond online to Requests for Evidence. For additional information on filing a DACA renewal request online, see the Form I-821D  webpage. To be considered for DACA, you must submit Form I-821D, Form I-765, and Form I-765WS with your online DACA renewal requests.

After You Submit Your Request

If we determine your request is complete, we will send you a receipt notice. If you need to visit an Application Support Center (ASC) for biometric services, we will send you an appointment notice. Please make sure you read and follow the instructions in the notice. If you fail to attend your biometrics appointment, it may take longer for us to process your request for consideration of deferred action, or we may deny your request. You may also choose to receive an email or text message or both notifying you that we have accepted your form by completing a  Form G-1145, E-Notification of Application/Petition Acceptance .

We will review each request for consideration of DACA on an individual, case-by-case basis. We may request more information or evidence from you or ask you to appear at a USCIS office. We will notify you of our determination in writing.

Note:  All individuals who believe they meet the guidelines, including those in removal proceedings, with a final removal order, or with a voluntary departure order, may affirmatively request consideration of DACA from USCIS through this process. If you are currently in immigration detention and believe you meet the guidelines, you may request consideration of deferred action from USCIS, but we will not approve the request until you are released from detention. If you are requesting DACA, you should tell your deportation officer or follow directions at the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) DACA webpage , which also has more information.

Q9: Can I obtain a fee waiver or fee exemption for this process? A9: There are no fee waivers available for DACA requests or employment authorization applications connected to DACA. There are very limited fee exemptions available for Form I-821D and related Form I-765s. You must file a request for a fee exemption, and we must approve your request, before you file your Form I-821D and Form I-765 without fees. To be considered for a fee exemption, you must submit a letter and supporting documentation to USCIS showing that you meet 1 of the following conditions:

• You cannot care for yourself because you suffer from a serious, chronic disability and your income is less than 150 percent of the U.S. poverty level; or
• You have, at the time of the request, accumulated  $10,000  or more in debt in the past 12 months because of unreimbursed medical expenses for yourself or an immediate family member, and your income is less than 150 percent of the U.S. poverty level; or
• homeless, or
• in foster care, or
• otherwise lacking any parental or other familial support.

You can find additional information on our  Fee Exemption Guidance  webpage. Your fee exemption request must be submitted and decided before you submit a Form I-821D and related Form I-765 without fees. You must provide evidence that you meet any of the above conditions when you make the request. For evidence, we will accept:

• Affidavits from community-based or religious organizations establishing that you are homeless or lack parental or other familial financial support;
• Copies of tax returns, bank statement, pay stubs, or other reliable evidence of income level. Evidence can also include an affidavit from you or a responsible third party attesting that you do not file tax returns, have no bank accounts, or have no income to prove income level; and
• Copies of medical records, insurance records, bank statements, or other reliable evidence of unreimbursed medical expenses of at least $10,000 .

We will address factual questions through Requests for Evidence (RFEs).

Q10: If individuals meet the guidelines for consideration of DACA and are encountered by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) or ICE, will they be placed into removal proceedings? A10: Under the direction of the Secretary of Homeland Security, if an individual meets the guidelines for DACA, CBP or ICE should exercise their discretion on a case-by-case basis to prevent qualifying individuals from being apprehended, placed into removal proceedings, or removed. If individuals believe that, in light of this policy, they should not have been apprehended or placed into removal proceedings, contact your case officer or the ICE Detention Reporting and Information Line at 1-888-351-4024 (staffed 8 a.m. – 8 p.m., Monday – Friday); or email  [email protected]

Q11: Does this process apply to me if I am currently in removal proceedings, have a final removal order, or have a voluntary departure order? A11: This process is open to any individual who can demonstrate they meet the guidelines for DACA consideration under 8 CFR 236.21 – 236.25, including those who have never been in removal proceedings as well as those in removal proceedings, with a final order of removal, or with a voluntary departure order.

Q12: If I am not in removal proceedings but believe I meet the guidelines for consideration of DACA, should I seek to place myself into removal proceedings through encounters with CBP or ICE? A12: No. If you are not in removal proceedings but believe that you meet the guidelines for DACA consideration under 8 CFR 236.21 – 236.25, you should submit your DACA request to USCIS under the process outlined below and at 8 CFR 236.23.

Q13: Can I request consideration of DACA from USCIS if I am in immigration detention under the custody of ICE? A13: Yes. If you are currently in immigration detention, you may request consideration of DACA from USCIS. However, if we decide to grant you DACA, we will not approve your DACA request until you are released from detention. If you are requesting DACA, you should tell your deportation officer.

Q14: If I am about to be removed by ICE and believe that I meet the guidelines for consideration of DACA, what should I do to seek review of my case before removal? A14: If you believe you can demonstrate that you meet the guidelines and are about to be removed, you should immediately contact your case officer or the ICE Detention Reporting and Information Line at 1-888-351-4024 (staffed 8 a.m. – 8 p.m. Eastern, Monday – Friday) or email  [email protected] .

Q15: What should I do if I meet the guidelines of this process and have been issued an ICE detainer following an arrest by a state or local law enforcement officer? A15: If you meet the guidelines and have been served a detainer, you should immediately contact the ICE Detention Reporting and Information Line at 1-888-351-4024 (staffed 8 a.m. – 8 p.m. Eastern, Monday–Friday); or email  [email protected]

Q16: If I accepted an offer of administrative closure under the case-by-case review process or my case was terminated or dismissed as part of the case-by-case review process, can I be considered for deferred action under this process? A16: Yes. If you can demonstrate that you meet the guidelines, you will be able to request consideration of DACA even if you have accepted an offer of administrative closure or termination under the case-by-case review process.

Q17: If I declined an offer of administrative closure under the case-by-case review process, can I be considered for deferred action under this process? A17: Yes. If you can demonstrate that you meet the guidelines, you will be able to request consideration of DACA even if you declined an offer of administrative closure under the case-by-case review process.

Q18: If my case was reviewed as part of the case-by-case review process but I was not offered administrative closure, can I be considered for deferred action under this process? A18: Yes. If you can demonstrate that you meet the guidelines, you will be able to request consideration of DACA even if you were not offered administrative closure following review of your case as part of the case-by-case review process.

Q19: Can I request consideration of DACA under this process if I am in a nonimmigrant status (for example F-1, E-2, H-4) or have Temporary Protected Status (TPS) at the time I submit my request? A19: No. You can only request consideration of DACA under this process if, at the time of submitting your request and at the time of adjudication of your request, you have no immigration status and were not in any lawful status on June 15, 2012. However, a pending petition or application for nonimmigrant status does not prevent you from requesting DACA, if you otherwise meet the threshold criteria at 8 CFR 236.22.

Q20: Will the information I share in my request for consideration of DACA be used for immigration enforcement purposes? A20: Under 8 CFR 236.23(e)(1), DHS will not use information about a requestor in a request for DACA to initiate immigration enforcement proceedings against that requestor, unless DHS is initiating immigration enforcement proceedings due to a criminal offense, fraud, a threat to national security, or public safety concerns. Individuals whose cases are deferred under DACA will not be referred to ICE. The information may be shared with national security and law enforcement agencies, including ICE and CBP, for purposes other than removal, including for assistance in the consideration of DACA, to identify or prevent fraudulent claims, for national security purposes, or to investigate or prosecute a criminal offense.

Q21: If my case is referred to ICE for immigration enforcement purposes or if I receive a Notice to Appear, will ICE receive information about my family members and guardians for immigration enforcement purposes? A21: Under 8 CFR § 236.23(e)(2), information contained in your DACA request related to your family members or guardians will not be used for immigration enforcement purposes against them. However, we may share this information with national security and law enforcement agencies, including ICE and CBP, for purposes other than removal, including for assistance in the consideration of DACA, to identify or prevent fraudulent claims, for national security purposes, or for the investigation or prosecution of a criminal offense.

Q22: Will USCIS verify documents or statements I provide to support my request for DACA? A22: We have the authority to verify documents, facts, and statements provided to support requests for DACA. We may contact education institutions, other government agencies, employers, or other entities to verify information.

C. Background Checks

Q23: Will USCIS conduct a background check when you review my request for DACA? A23: Yes. You must undergo biographic and biometric background checks before we will consider your DACA request.

Q24: What do background checks involve? A24: Background checks involve checking biographic and biometric information provided by an individual against a variety of databases maintained by DHS and other federal government agencies.

Q25: What steps will USCIS and ICE take if I engage in fraud through the new process? A25: If you knowingly misrepresent information, or knowingly fail to disclose facts, in an effort to obtain DACA or work authorization through this process, DHS will treat you as an immigration enforcement priority to the fullest extent permitted by law, and you will be subject to criminal prosecution or removal from the United States or both.

D. After USCIS Makes a Decision

Q26: Can I appeal USCIS’ determination? A26: No. You cannot file a motion to reopen or reconsider and cannot administratively appeal the decision if we deny your DACA request.

You may request a review of your Form I-821D denial by contacting the USCIS Contact Center at 800-375-5283 Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Eastern. For people who are deaf, hard of hearing or have a speech disability: TTY 800-767-1833. We will not review its discretionary determination to deny your request for DACA. However, you can have a Service Request created if you believe that you met all of the DACA guidelines and that your request was denied because we:

• Denied the request based on abandonment, when you responded to an RFE or Notice of Intent to Deny (NOID) within the prescribed time;
• To ensure the address is updated on a pending case as quickly as possible, we recommend that customers  change your address online . Please note that only an online change of address or a Form AR-11 submission will satisfy the legal requirements to notify us of an address change. Therefore, if you called a customer service representative to change your address, please be sure you also change your address online or with a Form AR-11.
• Denied the request on the grounds that you did not come to the United States before your 16th birthday, but the evidence submitted at the time of filing shows that you did arrive before reaching that age.
• Denied the request on the grounds that you were under age 15 at the time of filing but not in removal proceedings, while the evidence submitted at the time of filing show that you indeed were in removal proceedings when the request was filed;
• Denied the request on the grounds that you were 31 or older as of June 15, 2012, but the evidence submitted at the time of filing shows that you were under the age of 31 as of June 15, 2012;
• Denied the request on the grounds that you had lawful status on June 15, 2012, but the evidence submitted at the time of filing shows that you indeed were in an unlawful immigration status on that date;
• Denied the request on the grounds that you were not physically present in the United States on June 15, 2012, and up through the date of filing, but the evidence submitted at the time of filing shows that you were, in fact, present;
• Denied on the grounds that you are not currently in school, have not graduated or obtained a certificate of completion from high school, have not obtained a GED certificate, and are not an honorably discharged veteran of the U.S. Coast Guard or armed forces of the United States;
• Denied the request due to your failure to appear at a USCIS ASC where we may collect your biometrics, when you in fact either did appear at a USCIS ASC to have this done or requested before the scheduled date of your biometrics appointment to have the appointment rescheduled; or
• Denied the request because you did not pay the filing fees for Form I-821D or Form I-765 when you actually did pay these fees.

Q27: If USCIS does not exercise deferred action in my case, will I be placed in removal proceedings? A27: If we deny your request for DACA under 8 CFR 236.23, we will not issue a Notice to Appear or refer your case to ICE for possible enforcement action based on our denial, unless we determine that your case involves denial for a criminal offense, fraud, a threat to national security, or public safety concerns. We may consider factors including, but not limited to, whether a misrepresentation is willful, material, and knowing in determining whether fraud is involved in a case.

Q28: Can USCIS terminate my DACA before it expires? A28: Yes. DACA is an exercise of prosecutorial discretion, and under 8 CFR 236.23(d), we may terminate a grant of DACA at any time, at USCIS’ discretion. We will provide a Notice of Intent to Terminate (NOIT) and an opportunity to respond before terminating a DACA grant, except we may terminate a grant of DACA without an NOIT and an opportunity to respond if you are convicted of a national security-related offense involving conduct described in 8 U.S.C. 1182(a)(3)(B)(iii), (iv), or 1227(a)(4)(A)(i)), or an egregious public safety offense. If we terminate your grant of DACA without an NOIT and an opportunity to respond, we will notify you of the termination.

Q29: What happens to my employment authorization if USCIS terminates my DACA before it expires?

A29: A grant of employment authorization based on DACA, under 8 CFR 274a.12(c)(33), will automatically terminate when DACA terminates. See 8 CFR 236.23(d)(3).

II. Initial Requests for DACA

Q30: What guidelines must I meet to be considered for DACA? A30: Under current court orders, we are accepting, but not adjudicating, initial requests for DACA. Under 8 CFR 236.22, to be considered for DACA you must submit evidence, including supporting documents, showing that you:

• Have continuously resided in the United States since June 15, 2007, up until you filed your request for DACA;
• Were physically present in the United States on June 15, 2012, and when you filed your request for DACA with USCIS;
• Had no lawful immigration status on June 15, 2012,* and when you filed your request for DACA, meaning that:
• You never had a lawful immigration status on or before June 15, 2012, or
• Any lawful immigration status or parole that you had before June 15, 2012, expired as of June 15, 2012, and
• Any lawful status that you had after June 15, 2012, expired or otherwise ended before you submitted your request for DACA;
• Are currently enrolled in school, have graduated or obtained a certificate of completion from high school, have obtained a GED certificate, or are an honorably discharged veteran of the U.S. Coast Guard or armed forces of the United States; and

We consider on a case-by-case basis deferred action requests submitted under 8 CFR 236.21-236.25. Even if you meet the threshold criteria listed above and at 8 CFR 236.22(b), we retain the discretion to assess your circumstances and determine that any specific factor makes deferred action inappropriate. See 8 CFR 236.22(c).

* Please review Q19 if you are currently in a lawful immigration status.

Q31: I first came to the United States before I turned 16 years old, and I have been continuously residing in the United States since at least June 15, 2007. Before I turned 16 years old, however, I left the United States for some period before returning and beginning my current period of continuous residence. May I be considered for deferred action under 8 CFR 236.21-236.25? A31: Yes, but only if you established residence in the United States during the period before you turned 16 years old, as evidenced, for example, by records showing you attended school or worked in the United States during that time, or that you lived in the United States for multiple years during that time. In addition to establishing that you initially resided in the United States before you turned 16 years old, you must also have maintained continuous residence in the United States from June 15, 2007, until the present time to be considered for deferred action under this process. See 8 CFR 236.22(b)(1)-(2).

Q32: To prove my continuous residence in the United States since June 15, 2007, must I provide evidence documenting my presence for every day, or every month, of that period? A32: To meet the continuous residence guideline under 8 CFR 236.22(b)(2), you must submit documentation that shows you have been living in the United States from June 15, 2007, up until the time of filing your request. You should provide documentation to account for as much of the period as reasonably possible, but there is no requirement that every day or month of that period be specifically accounted for through direct evidence.

It is helpful for us if you can submit evidence of your residence during at least each year of the period. We will review the documentation in its totality to determine whether it is more likely than not that you were continuously residing in the United States for the period since June 15, 2007. Gaps in the documentation for certain periods may raise doubts about your continued residence if they are lengthy or the record otherwise indicates that you may have been outside the United States for a period that was not brief, casual or innocent.

If gaps in your documentation raise questions, we may issue a Request for Evidence(RFE) to allow you to submit additional documentation that supports your claimed continuous residence.

You may submit affidavits to explain a gap in the documentation showing that you meet the 5-year continuous residence requirement. If you submit affidavits related to the continuous residence requirement, you must submit 2 or more affidavits, sworn to or affirmed by people other than yourself who have direct personal knowledge of the events and circumstances during the period when there is a gap in the documentation. You may only use affidavits to explain gaps in your continuous residence; you cannot use them as evidence that you meet the entire 5-year continuous residence requirement.

Q33: I came to the United States when I was very young and before I began attending school, so I do not have primary evidence of the start of my continuous residence in the United States. Can I submit an affidavit as proof of the start of my continuous residence period?

A33: DHS will accept affidavits for the start of the continuous residence period if you are a new initial requestor who arrived in the United States at or before age 8. We recognize that age 8 is the highest age at which school attendance becomes required within the United States, and that it may be more challenging for individuals who arrived before that age to provide primary evidence of the start of their continuous residence period.

Q34: Does “currently enrolled in school” refer to the date when I file the request for consideration of deferred action? A34: To be considered “currently enrolled in school” under 8 CFR 236.22(b)(5), you must be enrolled in school on the date you submit a DACA request.

Q35: Who is considered to be “currently enrolled in school” under 8 CFR 236.22(b)(5)? A35: To be considered “currently enrolled in school” under 8 CFR 236.22(b)(5), you must be enrolled in:

• A public, private, or charter elementary school, junior high or middle school, high school, secondary school, alternative program, or homeschool program that meets state requirements;
• An education, literacy, or career training program (including vocational training) that has a purpose of improving literacy, mathematics, or English or is designed to lead to placement in postsecondary education, job training, or employment and where you are working toward such placement; or
• An education program helping students obtain a regular high school diploma or its recognized equivalent under state law (including a certificate of completion, certificate of attendance, or alternate award), or in passing a GED exam or other state-authorized exam (such as HiSet or TASC) in the United States.

Education, literacy, and career training programs (including vocational training), or education programs helping students obtain a regular high school diploma or its recognized equivalent under state law, or in passing a GED exam or other state-authorized exam in the United States, may include, but are not limited to, programs wholly or partially funded by federal, state, county or municipal grants or administered by nonprofit organizations. Programs funded by other sources may qualify if they have demonstrated effectiveness.

In assessing whether programs are of demonstrated effectiveness, we will consider:

• The duration of the program’s existence;
• Assisting students in obtaining a regular high school diploma or its recognized equivalent;
• Passing a GED or other state-authorized exam (such as HiSet or TASC); or
• Placing students in postsecondary education, job training, or employment; and
• Other indicators of the program’s overall quality.

If you seek to demonstrate that you are “currently enrolled in school” with your enrollment in such a program, you must show the program’s demonstrated effectiveness.

Q36: How do I establish that I am currently enrolled in school? A36: Documentation showing that you are enrolled in school may include evidence that you are enrolled in:

• A public, private, or charter elementary school, junior high or middle school, high school or secondary school, alternative program, or homeschool program that meets state requirements; or
• Has a purpose of improving literacy, mathematics, or English, or is designed to lead to placement in postsecondary education, job training, or employment and where you are working toward such placement; and
• Is wholly or partially funded by federal, state, county or municipal grants or administered by nonprofit organizations or, if funded by other sources, is of demonstrated effectiveness; or
• An education program assisting students in obtaining a high school equivalency diploma or certificate recognized under state law (such as by passing a GED exam or other state-authorized exam such as HiSet or TASC), and that the program is wholly or partially funded by federal, state, county or municipal grants or administered by nonprofit organizations or, if funded by other sources, is of demonstrated effectiveness.

Evidence of enrollment may include acceptance letters, school registration cards, letters from a school or program, transcripts, report cards, or progress reports that may show the name of the school or program, date of enrollment, and current educational or grade level, if relevant. See Chart #1, below, for examples of documents. Q37: What documentation may be sufficient to demonstrate that I have graduated or obtained a certificate of completion from high school? A37: See Chart #1, below, for examples of documents. Documentation showing that you have graduated or obtained a certificate of completion from high school for purposes of 8 CFR 236.22(b)(5) may include, but is not limited to:

• A high school diploma from a public or private high school or secondary school; or
• A certificate of completion, a certificate of attendance, or an alternate award from a public or private high school or secondary school or a recognized equivalent of a high school diploma under state law, or a GED certificate or certificate from passing another such state authorized exam (e.g., HiSet or TASC) in the United States.

Q38: What documentation may be sufficient to demonstrate that I have obtained a GED certificate or certificate from passing a similar state-authorized exam (such as HiSet or TASC)? A38: See Chart #1, below, for examples of documents. Documentation demonstrating that you have obtained a GED certificate or certificate from passing a similar state-authorized exam for purposes of 8 CFR 236.22(b)(5) may include, but is not limited to, evidence that you have passed a GED exam or other state-authorized exam (such as HiSet or TASC) and received the recognized equivalent of a regular high school diploma under state law.

Q39: If I am enrolled in a literacy or career training program, can I meet the guidelines at 8 CFR 236.22(b)(5)? A39: Yes, in certain circumstances. You may be able to establish that you meet the education guidelines at 8 CFR 236.22(b)(5) if you are enrolled in an education, literacy, or career training program that has a purpose of improving literacy, mathematics, or English or is designed to lead to placement in postsecondary education, job training, or employment and where you are working toward such placement. Such programs include, but are not limited to, programs wholly or partially funded by federal, state, county or municipal grants or administered by nonprofit organizations, or if funded by other sources, are programs of demonstrated effectiveness.

Q40: If I am enrolled in an English as a second language (ESL) program, can I meet the guidelines? A40: Yes, in certain circumstances. You may be able to establish that you meet the education criteria at 8 CFR 236.22(b)(5) through enrollment in an ESL program if the ESL program is wholly or partially funded by federal, state, county or municipal grants or administered by nonprofit organizations, or is a program of demonstrated effectiveness. You must submit direct documentary evidence that the program is wholly or partially funded by federal, state, county or municipal grants, administered by a nonprofit organization, or of demonstrated effectiveness.

Q41: Will USCIS consider evidence other than that listed in Chart #1 to show that I have met the education guidelines at 8 CFR 236.22(b)(5)? A41: No. We will not accept evidence that is not listed in Chart #1 to establish that you are currently enrolled in school, have graduated or obtained a certificate of completion from high school, or have obtained a GED or passed another state-authorized exam (such as HiSet or TASC) for purposes of 8 CFR 236.22(b)(5). You must submit any of the documentary evidence listed in Chart #1 to show that you meet the education guidelines at 8 CFR 236.22(b)(5).

Q42: Will USCIS consider evidence other than that listed in Chart #1 to show that I have met certain threshold criteria at 8 CFR 236.22(b)? A42: You may use evidence other than those documents listed in Chart #1 to establish that you meet the following guidelines and factual showings, if available documentary evidence is insufficient or lacking and shows that:

• You were physically present in the United States on June 15, 2012;
• You came to the United States before reaching your 16th birthday;
• You satisfy the continuous residence requirement, if you present direct evidence of your continued residence in the United States for a portion of the required period and the circumstantial evidence is used only to fill in gaps in the length of continuous residence demonstrated by the direct evidence; and
• Any travel outside the United States during the period of required continuous presence was brief, casual, and innocent.

However, we will not accept evidence other than the documents listed in Chart #1 as proof that you meet any of the following guidelines:

• You were under the age of 31 on June 15, 2012 (that is, you were born on or after June 16, 1981); and
• You are currently enrolled in school, have graduated or obtained a certificate of completion from high school, have obtained a GED certificate, or are an honorably discharged veteran of the Coast Guard or armed forces of the United States.

For example, even if you do not have documentary proof of your presence in the United States on June 15, 2012, you may still be able to demonstrate that you meet the guideline. You may do so by submitting credible documentary evidence that you were present in the United States shortly before and shortly after June 15, 2012, which may be enough to infer you were present June 15, 2012, as well. However, we will not accept evidence other than that listed in Chart #1 to establish that you have graduated high school. You must submit the designated documentary evidence to satisfy that you meet this guideline.

Chart #1 provides examples of documentation you may submit to demonstrate you meet the threshold criteria for DACA under 8 CFR 236.21-236.25. Please see the instructions for  Form I-821D, Consideration of Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals , for additional details of acceptable documentation.

Q43: May I file affidavits as proof that I meet the threshold criteria for consideration of DACA at 8 CFR 236.22(b)? A43: Affidavits generally will not be sufficient on their own to demonstrate that you meet the threshold criteria at 8 CFR 236.22(b) for us to consider you for DACA. However, you may use affidavits to support meeting the following guidelines if the documentary evidence available to you is insufficient or lacking:

• Showing that you meet the 5-year continuous residence requirement;
• Establishing the start of the continuous residence period if you entered the United States before age 8; and
• Establishing that departures during the required period of continuous residence were brief, casual, and innocent.

If you submit affidavits related to the above criteria, you must submit 2 or more affidavits, sworn to or affirmed by people other than yourself, who have direct personal knowledge of the events and circumstances. If we determine that the affidavits are insufficient to overcome the unavailability or lack of documentary evidence with respect to either of these guidelines, we will issue a Request for Evidence, indicating you must submit further evidence to demonstrate that you meet these guidelines. We will not accept affidavits to satisfy the following guidelines at 8 CFR 236.22(b):

• You are currently enrolled in school, have graduated or obtained a certificate of completion or other alternate award from high school, have obtained a high school equivalency diploma or certificate (such as by passing the GED exam or other similar state-authorized exam such as HiSet or TASC), or are an honorably discharged veteran from the U.S. Coast Guard or armed forces of the United States;
• Your lack of disqualifying criminal history.

If the only evidence you submit to demonstrate you meet any of the above guidelines is an affidavit, we will issue a Request for Evidence, indicating that you have not demonstrated that you meet these guidelines and that you must submit evidence to demonstrate that you meet that guideline.

Q44: Can I be considered for deferred action under this process if I had an application for asylum or cancellation of removal pending before either USCIS or the Executive Office for Immigration Review (EOIR) on June 15, 2012? A44: Yes. If you had an application for asylum or cancellation of removal, or similar relief, pending before either USCIS or EOIR as of June 15, 2012, but had no lawful status, you may request consideration of DACA.

Q45: I was admitted for "duration of status" or for a period that extended past June 14, 2012, but I violated my immigration status (for example, by engaging in unauthorized employment, failing to report to my employer, or failing to pursue a full course of study) before June 15, 2012. May I be considered for deferred action under 8 CFR 236.21-236.25? A45: No, unless the Executive Office for Immigration Review terminated your status by issuing a final order of removal against you before June 15, 2012.

Q46: I was admitted for "duration of status" or for a period that extended past June 14, 2012, but I "aged out" of my dependent nonimmigrant status as of June 15, 2012. May I be considered for deferred action under 8 CFR 236.21-236.25? A46: Yes. For purposes of satisfying the “had no lawful status on June 15, 2012," guideline at 8 CFR 236.22(b)(4) alone, if you were admitted for duration of status or for a period of time that extended past June 14, 2012, but aged out of your dependent nonimmigrant status on or before June 15, 2012, (meaning you turned 21 years old on or before June 15, 2012), you may be considered for deferred action under 8 CFR 236.21-236.25.

Q47: I was admitted for duration of status, but my status in the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS) is listed as terminated on or before June 15, 2012. May I be considered for deferred action under 8 CFR 236.21-236.25? A47: Yes. For the purposes of satisfying the “had no lawful status on June 15, 2012,” guideline at 8 CFR 236.22(b)(4) alone, if your status as of June 15, 2012, is listed as “terminated” in SEVIS, you may be considered for DACA under 8 CFR 236.21-236.25.

Q48: I am a Canadian citizen who was inspected by CBP but was not issued a Form I-94 at the time of admission. May I be considered for deferred action under 8 CFR 236.21-236.25? A48: In general, a Canadian citizen who was admitted as a visitor for business or pleasure and not issued a Form I-94, Arrival/Departure Record (also known as a “non-controlled” Canadian nonimmigrant) is lawfully admitted for a period of 6 months. For that reason, unless there is evidence, including verifiable evidence provided by the individual, that they were specifically advised that their admission would be for a different length of time, DHS will consider, for purposes of 8 CFR 236.21-236.25 only, that the noncitizen was lawfully admitted for a period of 6 months. If DHS can verify from its records that your last noncontrolled entry occurred on or before Dec. 14, 2011, DHS will consider your nonimmigrant visitor status to have expired as of June 15, 2012, and you may be considered for deferred action under 8 CFR 236.21-236.25.

Q49: I used my Border Crossing Card (BCC) to obtain admission to the United States and was not issued a Form I-94 at the time of admission. May I be considered for deferred action under 8 CFR 236.21-236.25? A49: Because the limitations on entry for a BCC holder vary based on location of admission and travel, DHS will assume that the BCC holder who was not provided a Form I-94 was admitted for the longest period legally possible—30 days—unless the individual can demonstrate, through verifiable evidence, that they were specifically advised that their admission would be for a different length of time. Accordingly, if DHS is able to verify from its records that your last admission was using a BCC, you were not issued a Form I-94 at the time of admission, and it occurred on or before May 14, 2012, DHS will consider your nonimmigrant visitor status to have expired as of June 15, 2012, and you may be considered for deferred action under 8 CFR 236.21-236.25.

Q50: Do I accrue unlawful presence if I have a pending initial request for consideration of DACA? A50: You will continue to accrue unlawful presence while the request for consideration of DACA is pending unless you are under 18 years of age at the time of the request. If you are under 18 years of age at the time you submit your request, you will not accrue unlawful presence while the request is pending, even if you turn 18 while your request is pending with USCIS. If we grant your DACA request, you will not accrue unlawful presence during the period of deferred action. However, having deferred action will not excuse previously accrued unlawful presence.

III. Renewal of DACA

Q51: When should I file my DACA renewal request? A51: We strongly encourage you to submit your DACA renewal request between 120 and 150 days (4 to 5 months) before the expiration date located on your current Form I-797 DACA approval notice and EAD. Filing during this window reduces the risk that your current period of DACA will expire before you receive a decision on your renewal request. Filing earlier than 150 days before your current DACA expiration date will not result in a faster decision.

DACA recipients may submit a DACA renewal request online. To file Form I-821D and Form I-765 online, a DACA requestor must first create a USCIS online account, which provides a convenient and secure method to submit forms, pay fees and track the status of any pending USCIS immigration request throughout the adjudication process. There is no cost to set up an account, which offers a variety of features, including the ability to communicate with USCIS through a secure inbox and respond online to Requests for Evidence. For additional information on filing a DACA renewal request online, go to the Form I-821D webpage. All online DACA renewal requests must include Form I-821D, Form I-765, and Form I-765WS and accompanying fees.

• If you fail to appear at an ASC for a scheduled biometrics appointment to obtain fingerprints and photographs. It will take longer to process your request if you miss or reschedule your appointments;
• Issues of national security, criminality or public safety discovered during the background check process that require further vetting;
• Issues of travel abroad that need additional evidence or clarification;
• Name or date of birth discrepancies that may require additional evidence or clarification; or
• A renewal submission that is incomplete or contains evidence that suggests a requestor may not satisfy the DACA renewal guidelines and we must request additional evidence or an explanation.

Q52: Can I file a renewal request outside the recommended filing period of 120 to 150 days before my current DACA expires? A52: We strongly encourages you to file your renewal request within the recommended 120- to 150-day filing period to minimize the possibility that your current period of DACA will expire before you receive a decision on your renewal request. We will accept requests we receive earlier than 150 days before your current DACA expires; however, this could result in an overlap between your current DACA and your renewal. This means your renewal period may extend for less than a full 2 years from the date that your current DACA period expires.

If you file less than 120 days before your current period of DACA expires, there is more risk that your current period of DACA and employment authorization will expire before you receive a decision on your renewal request. If you file after your most recent DACA period expires, but within 1 year of its expiration, you may submit a request to renew your DACA. If you are filing beyond 1 year after your most recent period of DACA expired, or if your most recent grant of DACA was terminated at any time, you may still request DACA by submitting a new initial request.

Please note: An ongoing  July 16, 2021, injunction (PDF, 401.59 KB)  from the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Texas, which was affirmed by the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit, and, on Oct. 14, 2022, was extended by the district court to the DACA final rule, remains in effect and prohibits DHS from granting initial DACA requests and related employment authorization under the final rule. Due to the partial stay of the injunction, DHS presently may grant DACA renewal requests under the final rule.

Q53: How will USCIS evaluate my request for renewal of DACA under 8 CFR 236.21-236.25? A53: We may consider renewing your DACA if you met the guidelines for consideration of Initial DACA (see above and 8 CFR 236.22(b)) and you:

• Did not engage in unauthorized travel outside the United States on or after Aug. 15, 2012;
• Have continuously resided in the United States since you submitted your most recent request for DACA that was approved up to the present time; and

These guidelines must be met for consideration of DACA renewal. We consider deferred action requests submitted under 8 CFR 236.21-236.25 on a case-by-case basis. Even if you meet the guidelines, we have discretion to assess your circumstances and determine that deferred action is inappropriate. See 8 CFR 236.22I.

Q54. Do I accrue unlawful presence if I am seeking renewal and my previous period of DACA expires before I receive a renewal of deferred action under DACA? Similarly, what would happen to my work authorization? A54: Yes, if your previous period of DACA expires before you receive a renewal of deferred action under DACA, you will accrue unlawful presence for any time between the periods of deferred action, unless you are under 18 years of age at the time you submit your renewal request.

Similarly, if your previous period of DACA expires before you receive a renewal of deferred action under DACA, you will not be authorized to work in the United States regardless of your age at time of filing until and unless you receive a new EAD from USCIS.

Q55. Do I need to provide additional documents when I request renewal of deferred action under DACA? A55. No, unless you have new documents pertaining to removal proceedings or criminal history that you have not already submitted to USCIS in a previously approved DACA request. However, we reserve the authority, at our discretion, to request additional documents, information or statements relating to a DACA renewal request determination.

CAUTION: If you knowingly and willfully provide materially false information on Form I-821D, you will be committing a federal felony punishable by a fine, imprisonment up to 5 years, or both under 18 U.S.C. Section 1001. In addition, you may be placed into removal proceedings, face severe penalties provided by law, and be subject to criminal prosecution.

Q56.; If I am no longer enrolled in school, can I still request to renew my DACA? A56. Yes. Neither Form I-821D nor the instructions ask renewal requestors for information about continued school enrollment or graduation. The instructions for renewal requests specify that you may be considered for DACA renewal if you met the guidelines for consideration of initial DACA, including the educational guidelines and:

• Did not engage in unauthorized travel outside the United States on or after Aug. 15, 2012, without advance parole;
• Have continuously resided in the United States, up to the present time, since you submitted your most recent request for DACA that was approved; and
• Have not been convicted of a felony, a misdemeanor described in 8 CFR 236.22(b)(6)or 3 or more other misdemeanors and are not a threat to national security or public safety.

Q57. If I initially received DACA and was under age 31 on June 15, 2012, but have since become 31 or older, can I still request renewal of DACA? A57. Yes. You may request consideration for a renewal of DACA as long as you were under age 31 as of June 15, 2012.

Q58: May I travel outside the United States before I submit an initial DACA request or while my initial DACA request is pending with USCIS? A58: Any unauthorized travel outside of the United States on or after Aug. 15, 2012, will interrupt your continuous residence, and you will not be considered for deferred action under 8 CFR 236.21-236.25. We will assess any travel outside of the United States that occurred on or after June 15, 2007, but before Aug. 15, 2012, to determine whether the travel qualifies as brief, casual and innocent. (See Chart #2.)

CAUTION: You should be aware that if you have been ordered deported or removed, and you then leave the United States, your departure will likely mean you are considered deported or removed, with potentially serious future immigration consequences.

Q59: If my case is deferred under DACA, will I be able to travel outside of the United States? A59: Not automatically. If we decide to defer action in your case and you want to travel outside the United States, you must apply for an advance parole document by filing  Form I-131, Application for Travel Document , and paying the applicable fee. We will determine whether your purpose for international travel is justifiable based on the circumstances you describe in your request. Generally, we will only issue an advance parole document if your travel abroad is for:

• Humanitarian purposes, including travel to obtain medical treatment, attend funeral services for a family member, or visit an ailing relative;
• Educational purposes, such as semester abroad programs and academic research; or
• Employment purposes, such as overseas assignments, interviews, conferences or training, or meetings with clients overseas.

Travel for vacation is not a valid basis for advance parole.

Travel for educational purposes means travel affiliated with an institution that provides education as its primary purpose. The DACA recipient does not have to be enrolled in the institution that the program is affiliated with, but you must be enrolled in the program you will be traveling with.

You may not apply for an advance parole document unless and until USCIS approves your DACA request. If you are a current DACA recipient and submitting a renewal request, you may apply for advance parole at the same time to the separate filing address for advance parole requests. We will consider all advance parole requests on a case-by-case basis.

If we have granted DACA under 8 CFR 236.21-236.25 after you have been ordered deported or removed, you may still request advance parole if you meet the guidelines for advance parole described above.

CAUTION: If you have been ordered deported or removed, before you leave the United States, you should seek to reopen your case before the EOIR and obtain administrative closure or termination of your removal proceeding. Even after you have asked EOIR to reopen your case, you should not leave the United States until after EOIR has granted your request. If you depart after being ordered deported or removed, and your removal proceeding has not been reopened and administratively closed or terminated, you may be considered deported or removed, with potentially serious future immigration consequences. If you have any questions about this process, you may contact ICE through the local ICE Office of the Principal Legal Advisor with jurisdiction over your case.

Q60: What happens to my DACA grant if I leave the United States without advance parole?

A60: CAUTION: When you leave the United States, you are no longer in a period of deferred action. DACA recipients who leave the United States without first obtaining an advance parole document run a significant risk of being unable to reenter the United States. We strongly encourage you to obtain an advance parole document before you leave to reduce the risk of being unable to return and resume DACA.

We may terminate a grant of DACA, in our discretion and after issuing a Notice of Intent to Terminate with an opportunity to respond, for DACA recipients who depart from the United States without first obtaining an advance parole document and subsequently enter the United States without inspection. See 8 CFR 236.23(d)(2). Generally, a recent entry without inspection will be a significant negative factor warranting termination of DACA as a threat to border security, but where there are exigent circumstances, such as accidental or involuntary border crossings, DHS may choose to continue exercising prosecutorial discretion and allow the grant of deferred action to continue.

DACA recipients who depart the United States without first obtaining advance parole but who are paroled into the United States may resume their DACA upon expiration of the period of parole.

Q61: Why does my advance parole document show a 1-day parole period?

A61: Your advance parole document may show a parole period of 1 day because it is to facilitate your reentry into the United States, at which time you will resume your current DACA validity period. This is different from the language on your advance parole document that authorizes a departure and reentry between specified dates. Please review your advance parole document carefully to understand the details of your travel authorization.

Q62: Do brief departures from the United States interrupt the continuous residence requirement? A62: A brief, casual, and innocent absence from the United States will not interrupt your continuous residence. However, unauthorized travel outside of the United States on or after Aug. 15, 2012, will interrupt continuous residence, regardless of whether it was otherwise brief, casual, and innocent. Your absence from the United States will be considered brief, casual, and innocent if it was on or after June 15, 2007, and before Aug. 15, 2012, and:

• The absence was short and reasonably calculated to accomplish the purpose for the absence;
• The absence was not because of a post-June 15, 2007, order of exclusion, deportation, or removal;
• The absence was not because of a post-June 15, 2007, order of voluntary departure, or an administrative grant of voluntary departure before you were placed in exclusion, deportation, or removal proceedings; and
• The purpose of the absence and your actions while outside the United States were not contrary to law.

Once we have approved your request for DACA, you may file  Form I-131, Application for Travel Document , to request advance parole to travel outside of the United States.

CAUTION: If you travel outside the United States on or after Aug. 15, 2012, without authorization and subsequently enter without inspection, DHS will issue you a Notice of Intent to Terminate and may, barring exigent circumstances, terminate your deferred action under DACA in its discretion,

Q63: May I file a request for advance parole at the same time I file my DACA package? A63: You may file your DACA renewal request and a request for advance parole at the same time. However, the filing addresses for those two requests are different, and you must send each request to its appropriate filing address. We will not issue an advance parole document for a period that continues past your DACA validity period.

To request advance parole, you must submit Form I-131, Application for Travel Document (PDF, 455.32 KB) . Please visit the Form I-131 webpage before you begin the process to make sure you are using the current version of the form. To request advance parole to travel outside the United States, you must complete and sign Form I-131, and include the required filing fee as listed on the Form I-131 webpage .

You can find information on where to file on the Direct Filing Addresses for Form I-131 webpage under “Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA).” If you do not send Form I-131 to the correct address, it may significantly delay adjudication of your application or cause us to deny it.

If you are filing an initial DACA request, you may not file an advance parole request at the same time.

Q64: Will USCIS expedite the processing of a DACA Form I-131 advance parole application currently pending with USCIS? A64: We consider all expedite requests on a case-by-case basis and generally requires documentation to support such requests. The decision to grant or deny an expedite request is within the sole discretion of USCIS. Please visit the USCIS Policy Manual Chapter 5 - Requests to Expedite Applications or Petitions for more information and guidance on expedite requests.

Q65: What if I am experiencing an extremely urgent situation and have not filed my Form I-131 advance parole application? A65:If you are experiencing an extremely urgent situation and need to travel within 90 days, you may request an emergency advance parole appointment at your local field office by contacting the  USCIS Contact Center . You should bring the following items to your appointment:

• A completed and signed Form I-131, Application for Travel Document;
• The correct Form I-131 filing fee;
• Evidence to support the emergency request (such as medical documentation, death certificate, etc.); and
• 2 passport-style photos.

V. Criminal Convictions

Q66: If I have a conviction for a felony offense, a misdemeanor offense described in 8 CFR 236.22(b)(6), or multiple other misdemeanors, can I be granted DACA under 8 CFR 236.21-236.25? A66: No. If you have been convicted of a felony offense, a misdemeanor offense described in 8 CFR 236.22(b)(6), or 3 or more other misdemeanor offenses not occurring on the same date and not arising out of the same act, omission, or scheme of misconduct, we will not consider you for DACA under 8 CFR 236.21-236.25.

Q67: What offenses qualify as a felony? A67: A felony is a federal, state, or local criminal offense punishable by imprisonment for a term exceeding 1 year.

A single conviction for a felony offense is disqualifying for purposes of DACA.

Q68: What offenses constitute disqualifying misdemeanors (as described at 8 CFR 236.22(b)(6)) for purposes of DACA? A68: For purposes of DACA, a misdemeanor (as described at 8 CFR 236.22(b)(6)) is a misdemeanor as defined by federal law (specifically, a misdemeanor for which the maximum term of imprisonment authorized is 1 year or less but greater than 5 days) that meets the following criteria:

• Regardless of the sentence imposed, is an offense of domestic violence; sexual abuse or exploitation; burglary; unlawful possession or use of a firearm; drug distribution or trafficking; or driving under the influence; or
• If not an offense listed above, is an offense for which you were sentenced to time in custody of more than 90 days. The sentence must involve time to be served in custody, and does not include a suspended sentence.

The time in custody does not include any time served beyond the sentence for the criminal offense based on a state or local law enforcement agency honoring a detainer issued by ICE.

A single conviction for a misdemeanor offense as described above is disqualifying for purposes of DACA.

A single misdemeanor conviction that is not a misdemeanor as described at 8 CFR 236.22(b)(6) is not per se disqualifying for DACA purposes. However, we may consider such offenses in the totality of circumstances to determine whether a DACA requestor merits a favorable exercise of prosecutorial discretion.

Notwithstanding the above, the decision whether to defer action in a particular case is an individualized, discretionary decision that takes into account all the circumstances. The absence of any misdemeanor convictions as described in 8 CFR 236.22(b)(6) is not necessarily determinative, but it is a factor we will consider when we exercise our discretion.

Q69: What offenses constitute “other misdemeanors” at 8 CFR 236.22(b)(6))? A69: For purposes of 8 CFR 236.22(b)(6), an “other misdemeanor” is any misdemeanor as defined by federal law (specifically, a misdemeanor for which the maximum term of imprisonment authorized is 1 year or less but greater 5 days) that meets the following criteria:

• Is not an offense of domestic violence; sexual abuse or exploitation; burglary; unlawful possession or use of a firearm; drug distribution or trafficking; or driving under the influence; and
• Is an offense for which the individual was sentenced to time in custody of 90 days or less. The time in custody does not include any time served beyond the sentence for the criminal offense based on a state or local law enforcement agency honoring a detainer issued by ICE.

Three or more convictions of “other misdemeanors” not occurring on the same date and not arising out of the same act, omission, or scheme of misconduct are disqualifying for purposes of DACA.

The decision to defer action in a particular case is an individualized, discretionary decision that takes into account all the circumstances. The absence of three or more convictions of “other misdemeanors”  is not necessarily determinative, but it is a factor we will consider when we exercise our discretion.

Q70: If I have a minor traffic offense, such as driving without a license, will it be considered a misdemeanor that counts towards the “3 or more other misdemeanors” and make me unable to receive consideration for an exercise of prosecutorial discretion under 8 CFR 236.21-236.25? A70: We will not consider a minor traffic offense a misdemeanor for purposes of 8 CFR 236.22(b)(6), and it is not per se disqualifying for DACA purposes. However, we can consider your entire offense history along with other facts to determine whether, under the totality of the circumstances, you warrant a favorable exercise of prosecutorial discretion.

It is important to emphasize that driving under the influence is a disqualifying misdemeanor as described at 8 CFR 236.22(b)(6), regardless of the sentence imposed.

Q71: What qualifies as a national security or public safety threat? A71: If the background check or other information uncovered during the review of your request for deferred action indicates that your presence in the United States threatens public safety or national security, we will not grant your DACA request. Indicators that you pose such a threat include, but are not limited to, gang membership, participation in criminal activities, or participation in activities that threaten the United States.

Q72: Will offenses criminalized as felonies or misdemeanors by state immigration laws be considered disqualifying convictions for purpose of DACA? A72: No. Under 8 CFR 236.22(b)(6), convictions under state laws (including U.S. territories) for immigration-related offenses are not considered convictions for purposes of DACA.

Q73: Will USCIS consider my expunged conviction or juvenile delinquency adjudication as a disqualifying conviction for purposes of DACA? A73: No. Under 8 CFR 236.22(b)(6), we do not consider expunged convictions and juvenile delinquency adjudications disqualifying convictions for purposes of DACA. However, we will assess expunged convictions and juvenile delinquency adjudications on a case-by-case basis to determine whether, under the circumstances, you present a national security or public safety concern and a favorable exercise of prosecutorial discretion is otherwise warranted. If you were a juvenile, but tried and convicted as an adult, we will not consider your conviction a juvenile delinquency adjudication.

VI. Employment Authorization

Q74. What should I do if my EAD was lost, stolen, or damaged? A74. If your deferred action under DACA is currently valid, and you do not need to renew it, but you need to replace a valid EAD because yours was lost, stolen, or damaged, file Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization, and select box 1.b. Submit the properly completed Form I-765, evidence that you are a current DACA recipient (such as your most recent DACA approval notice), and filing fee to the filing address for the location where you live.

Do not file Form I-821D, Consideration of Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals, with this Form I-765. If you submit Form I-821D when you are filing to replace a lost, stolen, or damaged EAD, we will deny your Form I-821D and we will not refund the $85 filing fee for Form I-821D.

VII. Miscellaneous

Q75: Can USCIS terminate my DACA grant? A75: DHS may seek to terminate a grant of DACA at any time in its discretion. However, in most cases we will provide DACA recipients with a Notice of Intent to Terminate (NOIT), with an opportunity to respond, before termination. We have discretion to terminate without providing a DACA recipient a NOIT and opportunity to respond if you were convicted of a national security-related offense involving conduct described in 8 U.S.C. 1182(a)(3)(B)(iii), 1182(a)(3)(B)(iv), or 1227(a)(4)(A)(i), or an egregious public safety offense.

Q76: Does deferred action provide a path to permanent resident status (a Green Card) or citizenship? A76: No. Deferred action is a form of prosecutorial discretion that does not confer lawful permanent resident status or a path to citizenship. Only Congress, acting through its legislative authority, can confer these rights.

Q77: Can I be considered for deferred action even if I do not meet the guidelines to be considered for DACA? A77: The process at 8 CFR 236.21-236.25 is only for individuals who meet the specific guidelines for DACA. Other individuals may, on a case-by-case basis, request deferred action from USCIS or ICE in certain circumstances, consistent with longstanding practice.

Q78: How will ICE and USCIS handle cases involving individuals who do not satisfy the guidelines of this process but believe they may otherwise warrant an exercise of prosecutorial discretion? A78: If we find that you do not satisfy the DACA guidelines at 8 CFR 236.22(b) or otherwise determines you do not warrant a favorable exercise of prosecutorial discretion, then we will decline to defer action in your case. If you are currently in removal proceedings, have a final order, or have a voluntary departure order, you may then request ICE consider whether to exercise prosecutorial discretion. Guidance on requests to ICE for prosecutorial discretion is available at ICE’s Prosecutorial Discretion webpage .

Q79: How should I fill out question 9 on Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization? A79. When you are filing a Form I-765 as part of a DACA request, question 9 is asking you to list those Social Security numbers that were officially issued to you by the Social Security Administration.

Q80: Is there supervisory review of decisions by USCIS under this process? A80: Yes. We have implemented a successful supervisory review process to ensure a consistent process for considering requests for DACA under 8 CFR 236.21-236.25.

Q81: Do USCIS personnel responsible for reviewing requests for DACA receive special training? A81: Yes. USCIS personnel responsible for considering requests for consideration of DACA have received special training.

Q82: Must attorneys and accredited representatives who provide pro bono services to deferred action requestors at group assistance events file a Form G-28 with USCIS? A82: Under 8 C.F.R. §§ 292.3 and 1003.102, practitioners are required to file Form G-28, Notice of Entry of Appearance as Attorney or Accredited Representative , when they engage in practice in immigration matters before DHS, either in person or through the preparation or filing of any brief, application, petition, or other document. Under these rules, a practitioner who consistently violates the requirement to file a Form G-28 may be subject to disciplinary sanctions; however, on Feb. 28, 2011, we issued a statement indicating that we do not intend to initiate disciplinary proceedings against practitioners (attorneys and accredited representatives) based solely on the failure to submit a Form G-28 in relation to pro bono services provided at group assistance events. DHS is in the process of issuing a final rule, at which time this matter will be reevaluated.

Q83: When must an individual sign a Form I-821D as a preparer? A83: Anytime someone other than the requestor prepares or helps fill out the Form I-821D, that individual must complete Part 5 of the form.

Q84: If I provide my employee with information regarding their employment to support a request for consideration of DACA, will that information be used for immigration enforcement purposes against me or my company? A84: You may, as you determine appropriate, provide individuals requesting DACA with documentation which verifies their employment. This information will not be shared with ICE for civil immigration enforcement purposes under section 274A of the Immigration and Nationality Act (relating to unlawful employment) unless there is evidence of egregious violations of criminal statutes or widespread abuses.

Q85: Can I request consideration for deferred action under 8 CFR 236.21-236.25 if I live in the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands (CNMI)? A85: Yes, in certain circumstances. The CNMI is part of the United States for immigration purposes and is not excluded from this process. However, because of the specific guidelines for consideration of DACA, individuals who have been residents of the CNMI are in most cases unlikely to meet the criteria at 8 CFR 236.22(b). You must, among other things, have come to the United States before your 16th birthday and have resided continuously in the United States since June 15, 2007.

Under the Consolidated Natural Resources Act of 2008, the CNMI became part of the United States for purposes of immigration law only on Nov. 28, 2009. Therefore, entry into, or residence in, the CNMI before that date is not entry into, or residence in, the United States for purposes of 8 CFR 236.22(b).

We have used parole authority in a variety of situations in the CNMI to address humanitarian needs on a case-by-case basis since Nov. 28, 2009. If you live in the CNMI and believe that you meet the guidelines for consideration of deferred action under this process, except that your entry or residence to the CNMI took place entirely or in part before Nov. 28, 2009, we are willing to consider your situation on a case-by-case basis for a grant of parole. If this situation applies to you, you should make an appointment  in Saipan to discuss your case with an immigration officer.

Q86: Will USCIS expedite the processing of my pending DACA request? A86: We consider all expedite requests on a case-by-case basis and generally requires documentation to support such requests. The decision to grant or deny an expedite request is within our sole discretion. Please visit the USCIS Policy Manual Chapter 5 - Requests to Expedite Applications or Petitions for more information and guidance on expedite requests.

Evidence showing the humanitarian need for expediting your DACA request may include, but is not limited to, evidence of loss of employment, disenrollment from an educational program, or medical or health-related emergencies.

We strongly recommend that you submit your DACA renewal requests between 120 and 150 days before your current period of DACA expires to minimize the risk of your DACA lapsing.

Q87: Someone told me if I pay them a fee, they can expedite my DACA request. Is this true? A87: No. While practitioners may charge a fee for preparation of your DACA request, including a request to expedite, an attorney or accredited representative who guarantees faster processing by USCIS if you pay them a fee may be trying to scam you and take your money. Visit our  Avoid Scams  page to learn how you can protect yourself from immigration scams.

Although you may request that USCIS expedite processing of your DACA request, there is no fee to request expedited processing. Make sure you seek information about requests for consideration of DACA from official government sources such as USCIS or DHS. If you are seeking legal advice, visit our  Find Legal Services  page to learn how to choose a licensed attorney or accredited representative.

Q88: Am I required to register with the Selective Service? A88:  Most male persons residing in the United States, who are ages 18 through 25, are required to register with Selective Service. Visit the Selective Service System website for more information.

Q89: How can I tell if an employer is discriminating against me because I am a DACA recipient? A89: An employer may be engaging in discrimination if they:

• Demand that an employee show specific documents or ask for more or different documents than are required to complete  Form I-9, Employment Eligibility Verification , or create an  E-Verify  case; or
• Reject documents from the Lists of Acceptable Documents that reasonably appear to be genuine and relate to the employee, including documentation showing work authorization because it has a future expiration date or because of an employee’s prior unauthorized status.

The Civil Rights Division of the U.S. Department of Justice has an office dedicated to ensuring that employers do not discriminate against individuals who are permitted to work in the United States. These include DACA recipients who have been granted work authorization. If you think your employer may be discriminating against you, contact the Immigrant and Employee Rights Section (IER) at 1-800-255-7688 (TDD for the deaf and hard of hearing: 1-800-237-2515).

For more information about unfair employment practices against DACA recipients, please read IER’s factsheet in  English (PDF)  or  Spanish (PDF) .

For additional resources and information about workers’ rights, visit the Department of Justice Reminders for DACA Recipients and Employers webpage.

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Renew Your DACA as Early as Possible

On May 13, 2024, the  Office of the Citizenship and Immigration Services Ombudsman (CIS Ombudsman )  sent out this stakeholder message:

If you need to renew your Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) , the Office of the Citizenship and Immigration Services Ombudsman (CIS Ombudsman) encourages you to file your DACA renewal request as early as possible.

• Filing your renewal request during this timeframe reduces the risk that your current DACA and employment authorization will expire before USCIS makes a decision on your renewal request. Filing earlier than 150 days before your current DACA expiration will not result in a faster decision.
• Filing online allows you to track your case, respond to requests for evidence electronically, and communicate with USCIS through your online account. It may also save you money.
• If you are submitting a paper form, make sure you 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 that you have signed them.
• Confirm you are paying the appropriate fees. As of April 1, 2024, the Form I-765 filing fee increased to $520 if you file the paper form and $470 if you file 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.
• Remember, USCIS will not adjudicate your DACA-based Form I-765 until after it makes a decision on your Form I-821D DACA renewal request.
• You may request an expedite of your DACA renewal request in emergencies or unforeseen circumstances. Please see USCIS’ Immigration Relief in Emergencies or Unforeseen Circumstances page.

Why this matters

DACA renewals and the associated EAD renewals represent a sizeable workload for USCIS. Filing within the recommended timeframe reduces the risk that your current period of DACA and employment authorization will expire before you receive a decision on your renewal request.

If you file more than one year after your current DACA expires, USCIS considers it an initial request and not a renewal. While USCIS is accepting initial DACA requests, recent court rulings prohibit USCIS from approving them at this time. Therefore, you may submit an initial request by mail, but all initial DACA requests are on hold and USCIS will not adjudicate them at this time.

More information

For more information on DACA, go to USCIS’ Consideration of Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) and Frequently Asked Questions pages. For information about current court cases affecting DACA, go to the agency’s DACA Litigation Information page.

The CIS Ombudsman is committed to working with stakeholders and USCIS to address concerns related to DACA. We will share additional updates on this topic when available.

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DACA Application Sample Cover Letter

This is a sample cover letter that can be used when submitting a DACA application. This is a sample cover letter that can be used when submitting a DACA application.

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What Supporting Documents Do I Need for a DACA Application? Checklists for New Applications and Renewals

When you file your DACA renewal or new DACA application, you will need to submit supporting documents to prove that you are eligible for DACA. The documents you need to submit will be different depending on whether you are renewing or applying for the first time. They will also vary based on your personal background. This article provides document checklists for all scenarios so that you can confidently apply for your DACA renewal or initial DACA status without an attorney.

Written by Jonathan Petts .  Written May 25, 2022

If You’re Submitting an Initial DACA Application

As of October 31, 2022, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) is accepting but not processing first-time Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) applications and accompanying employment authorization requests. But the agency is accepting and processing applications for renewal of DACA status and accompanying employment authorization and advance parole requests. The situation may change in the future, so we want to make sure that you are ready when it does. 

To submit a new DACA application and hold your place in line for when USCIS does begin processing initial applications, you must file these three forms:

Form I-821D: Consideration of Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals

‍ Form I-765: Application for Employment Authorization

Form I-765WS

Supporting Document Checklist for a New DACA Application

In addition to the forms above, you must submit two recent passport photos with your application and pay the filing and biometrics fees. The total fee for a DACA application is $495. The full charge includes the $410 work authorization fee for Form I-765 and an $85 biometrics fee. You can pay the fees either with a credit card or by check or money order. Make your check or money orders payable to the “U.S. Department of Homeland Security”. If you want to pay your filing fees with a credit card, you must submit Form G-1450: Authorization for Credit Card Transactions with your application.

Some applicants qualify for a fee waiver that allows them to avoid paying these fees. To qualify for DACA status, you must provide sufficient evidence to prove your eligibility in several categories. Keep reading to see what supporting documentation you need. 

‍Your Identity

Submit at least oneof these documents to prove that you are who you say you are:

Birth certificate with photo identification

Passport or national I.D. from your country of origin

School I.D. with photo

Military I.D. with photo

Any U.S. government immigration document with your name and photo on it

Entering the U.S. Before Your 16th Birthday

Submit at least one of these documents that shows that you came to the U.S. before your 16th birthday: 

Expired Immigration Status

If applicable, submit at least oneof these documents that shows that you had immigration status that has expired:

Form I-94, I-94W or I-95 showing authorized stay expiration date

Final order of exclusion, deportation, or removal issued as of June 15, 2012

A charging document placing you into removal proceedings

Living in U.S. Since June 15, 2007, and Present in the U.S. on June 15, 2012

‍ Submit at least oneof these documents that shows you were living in the U.S. during this time frame: 

Passport entries

Copies of money order receipts for money sent within the U.S. or from the U.S. to a person or place outside the U.S.

Dated bank transactions

Tax receipts or insurance policies

Automobile license receipts or registration

Deeds, mortgages, or rental agreement contracts

Official records from a U.S.-based religious entity confirming your participation in a religious ceremony

Rent receipts or utility bills

Employment records (W-2 forms, pay stubs, etc.)

U.S. school records (report cards, transcripts, etc.)

Birth certificates of children born in the U.S.

Military records (Form DD-214 or NGB Form 22)

Student Status

If applicable, submit at least one of these documents that shows that you are currently a student: 

Official records from the school you are currently attending in the U.S. (transcripts, report cards, etc.)

U.S. high school diploma or certificate of completion

U.S. GED certificate

Honorably Discharged U.S. Coast Guard or U.S. Armed Forces Veteran

If applicable, submit at least oneof these documents that shows you are a U.S. Coast Guard or U.S. Armed Forces veteran who was honorably discharged: 

Military personnel records

Military health records

Form DD-214 (Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty)

NGB Form 22 (Natural Guard Report of Separation and Record of Service) 

Compiling Your Initial Application Packet

When you are ready to submit your application, you should organize your forms, filing fees, passport photos, and the required supporting documents into a filing packet to mail to the USCIS lockbox or service center. We recommend that you include a cover letter at the front of your immigration packet that lists the forms and documents included in your application. This summary letter makes it easy for USCIS to review your application. You are welcome to use this sample DACA application cover letter as a template.

Go ahead and make a copy of everything in your renewal packet (including your check or money order) for your records. You should not submit original documents for anything other than passport photos to USCIS. You may not get these materials back. Instead, submit copies of the original documents with your renewal packet. 

If You’re Submitting a DACA Renewal Application

Unlike new DACA applications, DACA renewals don't require many supporting documents unless something has changed since the most recently approved application. For example, you may need additional supporting documents if any of the following happened since your most recently approved DACA renewal:

You were charged with a significant misdemeanor. 

A judge ruled that you were a threat to national security or public safety.

You enlisted in the U.S. Coast Guard or Army.

Supporting Document Checklist for a DACA Renewal Application

A completed DACA renewal and work permit application must include the following supporting documents, in addition to a completed Form I-821D , Form I-765 , and Form I-765WS :

$495 filing fees ($410 for the work permit and $85 for biometrics services)

You can pay this with either a check or money order paid to the U.S. Department of Homeland Security or a completed Form G-1450 if you prefer to pay with a credit card.

Two recent passport photos

A copy of the front and back of your current Employment Authorization Document (EAD)

Any documents related to changes to your application since your last approval

If you would like to receive email notifications about your DACA application, you should complete Form G-1145 as well.

Compiling Your Renewal Application Packet

Organize everything into a filing packet to mail to the USCIS lockbox or service center. It’s a good idea to include a cover letter at the front of your immigration packet that lists the forms and documents included in your packet. This summary letter allows USCIS to easily review your application. Feel free to use this sample DACA application cover letter as a template.

Make a copy of everything in your renewal packet, including your check or money order, for your records. You should not submit original documents for anything other than passport photos to USCIS. You may not get them back. Instead, submit copies of the original documents with your renewal packet.

Check out our DACA renewal guide for more frequently asked questions about the renewal process.

Continue reading and learning!

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Reminders for DACA Recipients and Employers that Work Authorization Continues After the Latest Decision in the DACA Litigation

On September 13, 2023, a district court issued a decision finding that the Department of Homeland Security’s 2022 DACA regulation is unlawful. This decision follows prior court decisions from the district court and Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals finding the original DACA program (established in 2012) unlawful. As a result of these rulings, existing DACA recipients retain their grant of DACA and are allowed to apply for (and receive) renewal, but the government cannot grant new DACA applications. There is no change to current grants of deferred action, DACA Employment Authorization Documents (EADs), and advance parole granted under the original 2012 DACA program. Those grants and EADs remain valid. These court rulings do not affect ICE’s enforcement policies. Like the earlier court rulings, the most recent district court order does not require DHS or the Department of Justice to take any immigration, deportation, or criminal action against any DACA recipient, applicant, or any other individual that it would not otherwise take. In light of the most recent district court decision, we are re-issuing these reminders about employment discrimination and immigrant employee rights.

Reminders for DACA Recipients and Employers

• DACA recipients with current, unexpired EADs continue to be authorized to work.   
• Workers who already have DACA can continue to renew their DACA EADs.
• USCIS has posted Frequently Asked Questions with guidance for DACA requestors and recipients.
• DACA recipients are not required to tell employers they have DACA.
• Employers are not expected to know which employees, if any, have DACA, and the DACA court decisions do not require employers to review Forms I-9, reverify employment authorization, or take any action at all.
• Employers are not required or encouraged to ask their employees or job applicants about their immigration status or whether they have DACA. 
• Federal laws such as the Immigration and Nationality Act, Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, and 42 U.S.C. § 1981 protect employees from employment discrimination based on several factors, including their citizenship, immigration status, national origin, and race. State and local laws may offer additional protections to workers.
• Firing employees who have the legal right to work, such as DACA recipients with EADs, based on their immigration status, national origin, or assumptions about these characteristics may violate federal, state, or local law.

Reminders for employers on hiring new employees

• Employers generally should not ask job applicants or employees for their specific citizenship or immigration status information. More information is available here .
• DACA recipients do not have to volunteer information about their immigration status to their employers.
• When hiring a new employee, employers are required to verify the employee’s identity and authorization to work, not their immigration status. Employers use the Form I-9 for this process. More information about this process is available at I-9 Central and in USCIS’s Handbook for Employers (M-274) . The DACA court decisions do not change Form I-9 rules or processes.
• The Department of Homeland Security’s rules  for verifying an employee’s work authorization explain that employers must accept documentation that reasonably appears to be genuine and to relate to the employee, and cannot reject documents because of a future expiration date. The DACA court decisions do not change this rule for existing DACA recipients and their Employment Authorization Documents.
• Employers should not question whether an employee’s Form I-9 documentation is valid because of the employee’s citizenship, immigration status, or national origin. Employers that treat employees differently in verifying work authorization based on these or other protected characteristics might violate federal law. More information about preventing discrimination is available here and here .

Reminders on when employers must reverify current employees’ work authorization

• Once an employer verifies a new employee’s employment eligibility, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) only requires employers to examine additional documentation from an employee that shows they continue to have the legal right to work in limited circumstances. These limited circumstances include when an Employment Authorization Document expires, or when the employee includes a date on the Form I-9 for when their employment authorization expires. More information is available here .
• The DACA court decisions do not change DHS rules for existing DACA recipients or any other employees. These DACA court decisions are not a basis to ask employees to show documentation to reverify their work authorization.
• Depending on the circumstances, asking employees for documentation when not required based on their citizenship, immigration status, or national origin may violate federal law. More information is available here .
• The DACA court decisions do not require employers to review or audit their Forms I-9. If an employer decides to review its Forms I-9, it should do so in a non-discriminatory way. This may mean reviewing all Forms I-9 or a sample selected based on neutral criteria. Employers should not single out Forms I-9 based on employees’ citizenship, immigration status, national origin, or any other protected basis. More information is available here .

Reminders for employers that use E-Verify

• Employers that use E-Verify must follow DHS rules and use E-Verify consistently, without regard to an employee’s citizenship, immigration status, or national origin. Employers that violate these rules run the risk of losing access to E-Verify and violating federal law. More information on avoiding discrimination is available here .
• Employers that use E-Verify generally are not allowed to run current employees through E-Verify. In addition, employers are not allowed to run employees through E-Verify because they have DACA, or because of assumptions or suspicions about employees’ immigration status or national origin. The DACA court decisions have no effect on a DACA recipient’s ability to receive an “employment authorized” E-Verify result.

How DACA recipients can get more information

• DACA recipients and other workers can learn more about their rights in the Form I-9 process here and information on their rights in the E-Verify process here and here . Workers can call USCIS at 1-888-897-7781 (TTY 1-877-875-6028).
• Workers with questions about employment discrimination based on citizenship, immigration status, or national origin can visit www.justice.gov/ier or call the Department of Justice’s Civil Rights Division, Immigrant and Employee Rights Section at 1-800-255-7688 (TTY 1-800-237-2515). Callers can remain anonymous and language services are available.

How employers can get more information

• Employers can learn more about the Form I-9 at  I-9 Central or by calling USCIS at 1-888-464-4218 (TTY 1-877-875-6028).
• For more information about how to avoid unlawful employment discrimination based on citizenship, immigration status, or national origin, employers can visit www.justice.gov/ier or call the Department of Justice’s Civil Rights Division, Immigrant and Employee Rights Section at 1-800-255-8155 (TTY 1-800-237-2515). Callers can remain anonymous and language services are available.

Justice Department, Immigrant and Employee Rights Section Worker Hotline 1-800-255-7688 Employer Hotline 1-800-255-8155 Mon-Fri 9am-5pm ET Calls can be anonymous and language services are available. www.justice.gov/ier | www.justice.gov/crt-espanol/ier   TTY 1-800-237-2515

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Do you have a sample I-90 cover letter?

Home » Do you have a sample I-90 cover letter?

July 25, 2021

Always keep your cover letter short and simple. Include the vital information such as your name and alien registration number. Be concise when explaining the purpose of the letter.

Sample I-90 Cover Letter

CitizenPath has created a sample I-90 cover letter for several situations. There for four cover letter samples below. Select the one that most closely matches your need and modify it for your use.

Sample Cover Letters for Form I-90

Use these sample cover letters for Form I-90 as a guide. Do not submit any of these letters without updating them to fit your specific situation. It’s not mandatory to submit a cover letter when you file Form I-90, but a cover letter can help to clarify the purpose of the application and why your application may require special attention.

Mistakes on your I-90 application can cause costly delays or a denial.

Where to address your cover letter.

You should generally file Form I-90 with the Phoenix, Arizona address as provided on USCIS.gov/i-90 . You may write your letter using the same address. After you have prepared your Form I-90, Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card, you can refer to the custom filing instructions from CitizenPath for the USCIS mailing address, filing fee and additional documents to submit.

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Obamacare for 'Dreamers': Biden expands access to affordable healthcare for DACA recipients

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Beneficiaries of the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals, commonly known as DACA, will now be eligible for health coverage and financial assistance under the Affordable Care Act, granting about 100,000 undocumented immigrants the chance to enroll in health care coverage through the federal health insurance marketplace.

The new rule, announced Friday by the Biden administration, will help streamline administrative and verification processes, promoting greater clarity and transparency, according to a statement from the White House.

"Nearly twelve years ago, President Obama and I announced the DACA program to allow our young people to live and work in the only country they’ve called home," President Joe Biden said in his statement on the new rule. "I’m proud of the contributions of Dreamers to our country and committed to providing Dreamers the support they need to succeed."

DACA recipients, commonly known as "Dreamers," will be able to apply for coverage starting in November through the HealthCare.gov website and through state marketplaces, where they may qualify for financial assistance when purchasing health insurance coverage.

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Immigrants 'deserve access to these resources'

More than one-third of DACA recipients currently do not have health insurance, and limits on healthcare access have significant impacts on the health of hundreds of thousands of Dreamers.

Mario Montoya, research analyst and coalition consultant for the Arizona-based Aliento organization, has experienced concerns about the cost of going to the doctor and the impact this can have on his health.

"I've been in that situation before, needing a simple checkup or physical exam and not having insurance or the availability of services at a lower cost," Montoya said in an interview with La Voz Arizona/The Arizona Republic. "(The new rule) benefits me personally."

As a DACA recipient, Montoya said he was excited about the implications this rule will have for the health of many people in his situation across Arizona and the country.

As of March 2024, the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services reported more than 530,000 active DACA recipients , of which approximately 4%, or just over 20,000 people, were located in Arizona, according to the Migration Policy Institute. The majority of DACA recipients are from Mexico.

Aliento is a local organization that seeks to improve the well-being of those impacted by the inequalities of not having legal immigration status in the United States.

“This is a step in the right direction, and I am glad to see that many people will now have access to affordable health care,” Montoya said. However, the battle does not end here, he said.

When this measure was initially introduced in April 2023, it sought to extend the Affordable Care Act to include DACA recipients and the scope of Medicaid and the Children's Health Insurance Program, which was not successful.

“(Undocumented immigrants) have been living here for a long time, paying taxes, and they are part of the working population that is essential to our community,” Montoya said. “They deserve access to these resources to care for their well-being.”

Nearly 1 million DACA recipients since 2012

According to USCIS, more than 832,000 young immigrants have benefited from this program since its inception. Beneficiaries of the protections provided by DACA have received work permits and the ability to go to school and build their lives without the constant threat of deportation.

A survey by the Center for American Progress estimates that 254,000 children born in the U.S. have a parent who is a DACA recipient , and 1.5 million people live with a DACA recipient. From these mixed-status families, the government receives more than $5 billion in federal taxes and $3 billion in state and local taxes. Additionally, these households have a combined $24 billion in purchasing power.

The benefits to Dreamers have allowed a significant sector of the population in this country to advance in educational and professional terms. Still, the program has not lived up to its original promise: citizenship.

The DACA program began in 2012 through an executive order signed by President Barack Obama to protect young immigrants who came to the United States as children from deportation. Despite efforts over the past decade to create permanent solutions and provide a path to citizenship, this has yet to happen.

In 2018, former President Donald Trump announced the decision to rescind DACA. Since then, the status of the program has been renewed but its future remains uncertain, and with it, the benefits currently offered to Dreamers.

Reach La Voz reporter Silvia Solis at [email protected] .