Resources
DACA renewal & delays: what you can do
Last updated: September 18, 2026
Overview
USCIS is taking longer to process many DACA renewal applications, and some applicants are experiencing significant delays. In addition, more renewal applicants are receiving biometrics (fingerprinting) appointments, requests for evidence (RFEs), and additional review, which can further extend processing times.
Take action: share your story
DACA renewal delays are affecting many members of our community. You can help raise awareness by sharing your experience here on Dreams Delayed, a public storytelling platform that highlights the real-life impact of these delays.
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Considerations before applying
USCIS processing times
According to USCIS Case Processing Times, DACA renewals (Form I-821D) are taking an estimated 7 months in 80% of cases.
USCIS recommends filing a DACA renewal 120 to 150 days (4 to 5 months) before expiration. However, based on current processing trends, filing even 150 days in advance may not be enough to prevent a lapse in DACA status or employment authorization.
To reduce the risk of a gap in protection or work authorization, we recommend submitting your renewal as close as possible to USCIS’s current average processing time before your DACA and Employment Authorization Document (EAD) expire. As of September 2026, this means filing your renewal approximately 6 to 8 months (180 to 240 days) before your expiration date.
Zero-interest, no-fee loan for DACA renewal fees
Applying for DACA can be costly. TheDream.US loan program, administered by the Mission Asset Fund (MAF), offers an affordable way to cover your USCIS application fee up front and pay it back in 10 monthly installments, while building your credit. Find out more and apply.
Apply for the loan 6 weeks before you submit your DACA renewal to ensure you have funds in hand when it is time to file. If you are having trouble with your loan application, email programs@missionassetfund.org.
Delays in your DACA renewal: what to do
If your DACA renewal is taking longer than it should, please take these steps.
Tip: have all these ready when following any of the steps
- Your full name
- Your alien registration / USCIS number (A-number)
- Your application receipt numbers and receipt dates
- The expiration date of your DACA and employment authorization document (EAD)
- Information you provided in the renewal application forms (I-821D and I-765). If you made copies of the forms before you submitted them, have them on hand so you can refer to them.
Step 1
Check your case status online
Monitor your DACA renewal by using USCIS’s online My Case Status tool. Create a USCIS online account to track the progress of your case.
Step 2
Contact USCIS about your case
If your DACA renewal has been pending more than 105 days (3.5 months), contact USCIS to submit an “outside normal processing time” inquiry by calling 1-800-375-5283 or submitting a service request inquiry online. Since Form I-821D is not listed in the menu options, use your Form I-765 receipt number when submitting the request.
Step 3
Reach out to your elected official for help
If your DACA renewal is significantly delayed, contact your U.S. Senator or U.S. Representative for assistance.
Tip: Find your U.S. Representative by entering your ZIP code at house.gov. To find your U.S. Senators, select your state at senate.gov.
- Submit a request online. Most congressional offices have a “Help with a Federal Agency” section on their website. Be prepared to provide information about your case, including your name, A-number, receipt numbers, filing dates, type of case, etc. You will have to provide your address to confirm you live in the member’s state or district and complete any required privacy release forms.
- Follow up by phone. If you don’t hear back within a few days (or sooner if it’s urgent), call their local office. If they still don’t respond, call their Washington, D.C. office. (Numbers are available on their website.) Public servants are busy people and need reminders about your pending inquiry. Be polite, but persistent.
- Ask for specific help. Clearly explain your situation. DACA recipients have compelling stories; share yours. Ask the office to contact USCIS about your case and, if appropriate, request expedited processing. If available, include supporting documentation, such as a letter from your employer.
Step 4
Request expedited processing
USCIS entertains a limited number of requests to expedite application processing on a case-by-case basis, subject to discretion and supporting documentation. Qualifying criteria include severe financial loss, urgent humanitarian situations, nonprofit interests, government needs, or clear agency error. Please read USCIS guidance on this before submitting the expedite request. To include a letter from your employer, please see this template. While not required, seek legal assistance if you want help preparing the expedite request (see Step 5).
Step 5
Reach out to a legal services provider
If the steps above have not resolved the delay, seek legal assistance. Identify a local legal service provider.
Already shared your story? Your dashboard tracks these five steps and can draft letters to your representatives and from your employer.
Important notes
- Apply early! Although DACA renewals are taking longer, you should still apply as early as possible. Not renewing before DACA expiration increases immigration-related enforcement risks.
- If your DACA has been expired for over a year, do not apply without first consulting an immigration attorney or a trusted legal services provider.
- Do you have an old removal order? Check your immigration court record through the EOIR Automated Case Information System (ACIS) online at acis.eoir.justice.gov or via phone at 1-800-898-7180. You will need your A-number to access information about court dates, locations, and final decisions. If you do have an old deportation order, consult with an immigration attorney for a full understanding of your immigration history and its potential impacts on your situation (see Step 5).
Additional support for urgent cases
If you are a TheDream.US Scholar or Alum and are experiencing hardship due to your DACA expiring or you need additional support, please contact TheDream.US.
This page mirrors TheDream.US’s DACA Renewal & Delays guidance (created March 1, 2026; updated September 18, 2026). Sources for the guidance: the USCIS website, Immigrants Rising, CLINIC, and NILC’s Steps to Take if Your DACA Renewal is Delayed.