Recipients of DACA — the program that protects certain young people brought to the U.S. illegally as children — can now renew their status online.
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) said Tuesday the move was part of a broader effort to digitize the federal agency’s processes.
“The expansion of online filing is a priority for USCIS as we make our operations more efficient and effective for the agency and our stakeholders, applicants, petitioners and requestors,” USCIS Director Ur M. Jaddou said in a statement. “The option to file DACA renewal requests online is part of USCIS’ ongoing move to minimize reliance on paper records and further transition to an electronic environment.”
The online filing option is only available to applicants renewing their DACA status — first-time applicants will still need to send paper applications in the mail.
How to Renew DACA
DACA status is valid for two years. USCIS recommends that you submit your DACA renewal application between 120 and 150 days before your current DACA expires.
Applicants need to complete and sign Form I-821D (“Consideration of Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals”) and Form I-765 (“Application for Employment Authorization”). The renewal fee is $495.
To file both these forms online, you’ll first need to create a USCIS online account, where you can also pay government fees and track the status of your application.
For more info, check out our Boundless guide on DACA and renewing your status. For details on where the program currently stands, see our Boundless video on what’s going on with DACA.