U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) outlined recommendations to help ensure timely processing of all Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) renewals. Currently, USCIS is processing DACA renewal submissions within the 120-day goal. However, a recent technical issue affected some submissions.

USCIS recommends submitting renewal requests 150 days, between 4 and 5 months, prior to expiration date. The expiration date is noted on the Form I-797 DACA approval notice. Filing well in advance of the expiration date helps ensure there is no lapse in status as well as retaining employment authorization. Filing earlier than the recommended 150 days prior to expiration does not advance the decision date.

DACA recipients have the option to file renewals either online or via paper. A USCIS online account is required for online filing. This method gives users a convenient and secure option to submit documents, pay fees, and track the status of the filing. There is no cost for the USCIS online account. All online DACA renewal requests must include three forms, Form I-821D, Form I-765, and Form I-765WS, and related fees. Fees for Form I-765 increased to $520 as of April 1, 2024. If filed online, a $50 discount is applied. There are no fee change for Form I-821D.

If filing via paper, users can access Form I-821D via the USCIS website. USCIS recommends DACA requestors also submit Form G-1145, E-Notification of Application/Petition Acceptance. When Form G-1145 is submitted, individuals receive an e-notification when their form is accepted.

USCIS noted processing times for DACA renewals. Fiscal year 2023 submissions were processed in 1 month. Fiscal year 2024, first quarter, DACA renewals were processed in under 2 months, below the 120-day DACA renewal goal. Of course, some submissions were not completed within that time frame. USCIS outlines the following as factors affecting DACA renewals:

• Failure to complete the required biometrics appointment,
• Issues found when checking an applicant’s criminality, public safety, or national security background which requires additional vetting,
• Additional information required due to travelling abroad,
• Discrepancies in name or date of birth,
• Incomplete submissions,
• Questions on eligibility for the DACA renewal where additional information or explanation is required.

USCIS notes that in recent months, some individuals are seeing processing times of over 120-days. A technical issue that affected some filings has been identified and rectified, per USCIS. Further, USCIS states the majority of filings affected by the technical issue will be resolved within the next 30-45 days. If a submission has been pending for 105 days or longer, individuals can submit an online inquiry. Expedited cases are considered on a case-by-case approach.

As always, ILBSG actively monitors ongoing developments that affect U.S. immigration policy and practice. If you have questions about a DACA renewal or any other U.S. immigration related issue, contact us. Our team of experienced professionals work directly with our clients to ensure they get the right advice.

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