Helping DACA Recipients Understand the Renewal Process

The DACA program and the legal rulings surrounding it have undergone numerous changes in the last decade, leaving many current and prospective recipients uncertain about the current process and its application to them. While some parts of the program continue to remain in place, others are currently paused, adding to the confusion. Even seemingly minor policy changes can significantly impact essential aspects of the application and renewal procedure. Working with an attorney can make the process more transparent and less overwhelming.

At Mi Sueño Americano, we recognize that the DACA program has played a vital role in the immigration journey for many recipients since its inception. We’re dedicated to ensuring that everyone affected understands what’s required of them and how they can complete the renewal process to maintain their benefits. Call (323) 672-4423 to speak to a Los Angeles immigration lawyer and find out what you need to do to stay informed on the current status and any upcoming changes to the DACA program and ensure you meet essential renewal deadlines.

One of the greatest DACA benefits is Advance Parole

DACA holders may be eligible to travel outside the United States through Advance Parole, a special travel authorization that allows them to leave and lawfully return without abandoning their DACA status. Advance Parole for DACA recipients is commonly approved for educational, employment, or humanitarian reasons, such as studying abroad, work-related travel, visiting a sick relative, or attending a funeral. When approved and used correctly, Advance Parole can be a powerful immigration tool because a lawful entry may open the door to future green card options for some DACA holders. 

However, the application process is highly technical, and travel without proper approval can result in being denied reentry. For this reason, many DACA recipients choose to work with an experienced immigration lawyer in Los Angeles who understands both DACA and Advance Parole requirements and can evaluate risks such as prior unlawful presence or immigration violations before filing. Working with a qualified Los Angeles immigration attorney helps ensure the Advance Parole application is properly prepared, supported with strong evidence, and strategically aligned with long-term immigration goals.

What Is DACA?

DACA stands for the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals, which was established in 2012. The purpose of this program was to provide a way for undocumented immigrants who were childhood arrivals to the United States to be able to live and work legally in the United States. While DACA status doesn’t provide permanent residence or citizenship within the United States, it removes the immediate fear of deportation so that immigrants can finish school, find lawful employment, and potentially take steps to apply for a Green Card if they qualify.

What Is the Current Status of DACA?

In 2017, the Department of Homeland Security took action to rescind the DACA program. This launched a series of legal rulings and appeals that have resulted in some changes to the DACA process. As of 2025, those who have already been granted deferred action through the DACA program will be able to retain those benefits until the expected expiration date, which is generally two years from approval. The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services office will also continue to accept and process renewal requests from those already in the program.

While initial DACA requests from undocumented immigrants will also be accepted, those are not being processed at this time. This effectively means that DACA is now unavailable to anyone not already accepted. However, this could change in the future, and having an initial application already in process could expedite the timeline if the program is reinstated for new applicants.

What Is the DACA Renewal Process?

If you are already a DACA recipient and you need to renew your status, it’s important to do so well before your status is actually set to expire. The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services office recommends that recipients submit their renewal request at least 120 days before the expiration date. In most cases, submitting as early as 150 days before the expiration date is better to ensure that the government has enough time to review your request before your current DACA and employment authorization document expires.

You can file your renewal request online, which also allows you to get notification of any Requests for Evidence and track the progress of your renewal. You will need to submit the Consideration of Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals and the Application for Employment Authorization forms as part of your renewal application and pay the corresponding fees.

How long it takes for your renewal request to be processed depends on the backlog at the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services office. If there are extenuating circumstances, you may be able to request that your DACA renewal be expedited, and an immigration attorney can help you with that process.

Are There Any Alternatives to DACA?

If you have not already been approved as a DACA recipient or your renewal application was denied, there may be other immigration options. An attorney can evaluate your situation and determine if another path, such as family-based immigration or military parole in place, may offer you a way to remain in the country while working toward legal status.

Every situation is unique, and the first step is to meet with an attorney to discuss your current circumstances and your immigration goals.

What Happens If Your DACA Renewal Petition Is Rejected?

Many people assume that if you have already received DACA benefits, your renewal request will automatically be approved, but this isn’t always the case. It’s essential to treat every renewal request as seriously as you did your initial application. Even minor issues like missing signatures or not providing all of the requested information can result in your renewal petition being denied. At Mi Sueño Americano, we understand how disheartening, confusing, and even scary this can be, and we’re here to help you work through this process and understand what comes next.

The most critical part of addressing a DACA renewal denial is to act as quickly as possible. Call an attorney to ensure you understand why your renewal request was denied and what your next steps should be. In some cases, you can file an appeal or pursue alternative relief measures. If there was a simple error in paperwork, an appeal with additional documentation may be enough to address the situation. An attorney can represent you during this process, giving you peace of mind.

Get Help From a DACA Immigration Lawyer

Ensuring you fully understand the DACA program as it stands now and how it is relevant to your specific situation is one of the most important steps you can take to secure your benefits. Working with an immigration law firm that has experience helping DACA recipients means that you can get help with filing your renewal, keeping track of deadlines, responding to Requests for Evidence, and ensuring you stay up to date with any future changes to the program.

If you’re a DACA recipient who is hoping to renew your protections, Mi Sueño Americano is here to make sure you don’t have to go through this process alone. Our team can offer clear guidance and support at every step, so you always know what’s happening with your case and what’s next. Call (323) 672-4423 to talk to an immigration attorney who truly cares about you and your future.