When Should I Renew My DACA?

If you currently have DACA, (Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals), you probably know how much the program has changed over the years, especially when it comes to renewing your status. In the past, your DACA lawyer may have recommended renewing very early to ensure that you could renew at all. Or you may have filed your renewal at the last minute, but you got your new work permit with no problem.

USCIS recommends filing your DACA renewal application between 150 and 120 days before your current status expires. That means it’s best to file your renewal 4 or 5 months before the expiration date on your work permit. The National Immigration Law Center has a handy DACA renewal calculator to help you figure out the best timeframe to file your renewal.

Can I file my DACA renewal earlier than the recommended time?

Even though you may have filed early in the past due to changes in the program, it’s best to file no earlier than 5 months before your current status expires. That way, there’s less chance of overlap between your old and new work permits. Also, since the program is not under threat right now, USCIS may reject early renewal applications.

Last time I renewed my DACA, it was approved in less than a month. Is it really necessary to renew 4-5 months before the expiration?

USCIS processing time can change at any time, so there’s no guarantee your renewal application will be approved as quickly as it was last time. To avoid gaps in your status and your work authorization, it’s best to stick with the 4-5 month recommendation.

My DACA is only valid for one year. When should I renew?

If you received a work permit that is only valid for one year, you will most likely get a notice from USCIS showing that your DACA status and work authorization are automatically extended for one more year. If so, USCIS will mail you a new work permit with the updated expiration date around 90 days before your current one expires. If you’re not sure if this applies to you, give us a call at 206-774-8758.

Seattle DACA lawyer, Inna Scott and her team at Global Law Advocates specialize in helping immigrants of all kinds gain legal status and other immigration benefits in the United States, such as Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA). To consult with an experienced attorney about your immigration options, call us at 206-774-8758 or send us an email at info@globallawadvocates.com.