DACA Immigration Law
Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals, or DACA, is meant for people who were brought to the United States as children and have built their lives here. The program doesn’t provide legal status or a path to citizenship, but it does offer protection from deportation and the ability to work legally if you qualify. Understanding the requirements can understandably feel overwhelming, which is where an immigration lawyer for DACA can make a big difference. At Ginsburg and Perez, we help with DACA renewals and guide you through each step so you know exactly what to expect. With the right support, you can feel confident that your renewal is handled correctly and on time.
DACA Renewal Cost
A DACA renewal currently costs $605. This amount goes entirely to USCIS for the required filing and biometrics fees. This fee is the same for every applicant and doesn’t include any attorney costs or legal help. Every renewal must include the full $605 payment or USCIS won’t process the request.
Who is Eligible For DACA?
DACA has specific rules about age, arrival dates, education, and criminal history. These rules help the government decide who fits the intention of the program. The requirements are fairly straightforward once each one is broken down. Keep in mind that meeting these requirements doesn’t automatically mean you’re guaranteed approval.
Eligibility requirements include:
• You came to the United States before turning 16
• You were under 31 years old on June 15, 2012
• You have lived continuously in the United States since June 15, 2007
• You were physically present in the United States on June 15, 2012 and when you applied
• You entered the country without inspection before June 15, 2012 or your lawful status expired before that date
• To meet the education requirement you must be currently enrolled in school, have graduated or obtained a certificate of completion from high school, have obtained a General Education Development (GED) certificate, or be an honorably discharged veteran of the United States Coast Guard or armed forces of the United States at the time of their initial DACA application.
• You haven’t been convicted of a felony, a significant misdemeanor, or 3 or more other misdemeanors, and you don’t pose a threat to national security or public safety
How Long Does DACA Renewal Take?
A DACA renewal typically takes about two to six months, though timelines can vary. Many people start seeing updates within the first month, but delays are not uncommon, especially if USCIS is experiencing a high volume of applications or needs additional information.
Most renewal cases move through a few stages. USCIS receives your application, sends a receipt notice, and then completes background checks and reviews your documents. After that, you receive an approval notice and your new work permit if everything is accepted.
Because timing can be unpredictable, most attorneys recommend submitting your DACA renewal about 120-150 days before your current DACA expires. This helps reduce any risk of a lapse in lawful presence in the U.S. and in work authorization. If you want help making sure everything is filed correctly and on schedule, a DACA immigration lawyer can guide you through the process and keep things on track.
How to Renew Your DACA Status
Renewing your DACA is a straightforward process, but timing and accuracy really are important. A DACA renewal lawyer can help you avoid mistakes, track deadlines, and make sure everything is submitted correctly. Here is a simple breakdown of the renewal steps.
1. Make sure you qualify for renewal. You must still meet all basic DACA requirements and have no new disqualifying issues.
2. Gather your documents. This includes your previous approval notices, work permit, identification, and any updated information USCIS may need.
3. Complete the required forms. Most applicants file Form I-821D, Form I-765, and the I-765 worksheet.
4. Pay the $605 USCIS fee. This fee covers processing and biometrics only.
5. Submit your renewal 120 to 150 days before your current DACA expires. This helps reduce any risk of a lapse in lawful presence in the U.S. and in work authorization. Filing earlier than 150 days won’t result in a faster decision.
6. Watch for USCIS notices. You may receive updates, a biometrics appointment, or requests for more information.
Can You Get a Green Card From DACA?
DACA by itself doesn’t provide a direct path to a green card, but some DACA recipients can become eligible through other options. For example, marriage to a U.S. citizen or having an employer sponsor you may open doors, but it depends on how you originally entered the country and your specific immigration history. Some people may need to apply for waivers or leave the country for consular processing, while others might qualify for adjustment of status without leaving. Since the rules can get complicated, many DACA recipients choose to speak with a DACA immigration lawyer to understand what options could apply to their situation.
Why Working With a DACA Renewal Lawyer Matters
Renewing DACA is more than just completing paperwork. It's about protecting your lawful presence in the U.S. and your work authorization and keeping your life moving without interruptions. Knowing the rules, staying ahead of deadlines, and submitting accurate forms can make the process go much smoother. When you work with a DACA renewal lawyer, you get guidance that helps you avoid delays and common mistakes. For DACA renewals and support you can rely on, Ginsburg and Perez are here to help you move forward with clarity and confidence.
*Nothing herein constitutes legal advice. You should obtain independent legal counsel regarding your specific factual situation.
