How much does DACA renewal cost in 2025?
The USCIS filing fee for a DACA renewal is $495, covering Form I-821D and Form I-765 (employment authorization). Add legal fees ($0-$750+), document costs ($20-$200), and total out-of-pocket costs range from $515 to $1,445+. Fee waivers are not available for DACA - the full $495 must be paid to USCIS.
When should I renew my DACA?
USCIS recommends submitting your renewal application 150 to 120 days (5 to 4 months) before your current DACA and EAD expire. Filing early helps prevent a gap in work authorization. If your EAD expires before your renewal processes, you will temporarily lose the right to work legally in the US.
Can I travel outside the US on DACA?
DACA does not grant lawful immigration status and does not include a travel document automatically. You must separately apply for advance parole (Form I-131) for humanitarian, educational, or employment travel. Traveling without advance parole abandons your DACA and makes re-entry into the US extremely difficult.
What documents do I need to renew DACA?
For a renewal, you typically need your current valid EAD (copy of both sides), your most recent DACA approval notice (Form I-797), completed Forms I-821D, I-765, and I-765WS, and the $495 payment. You generally do not need to resubmit original supporting documents unless USCIS specifically requests them.
What happens if DACA is terminated?
If DACA were terminated, current recipients would revert to undocumented status after a wind-down period. It is critical to consult an immigration lawyer about alternative relief options, including asylum, U visas, T visas, special immigrant juvenile status, or adjustment of status through a qualifying family member, based on individual circumstances.