For many young immigrants in the United States, DACA (Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals) provides critical protections, including the ability to work legally. However, DACA recipients must renew their work permits before they expire to continue working without interruption. Failing to do so could jeopardize your ability to remain employed and stay in good standing with immigration authorities.
Fortunately, the process of renewing your DACA work permit is straightforward if you follow the necessary steps. Here are three essential ways to ensure you can renew your work permit before it expires.
Apply for Renewal Early to Avoid Delays
One of the most important steps in renewing your DACA work permit is applying well before it expires. USCIS recommends submitting your renewal application at least 120 days before the expiration date. Waiting until the last minute to apply could result in delays, and you might risk having a gap in your work authorization. 
Filing early allows you ample time for processing and also reduces the stress of scrambling to gather your documents at the last minute. It’s important to note that you can apply up to 150 days before your current work permit expires, but submitting your renewal request 120 days before expiration is the ideal window.
When you apply early, it also gives you time to address any potential issues that may arise during the application process. You may be asked to provide additional documentation or answer questions about your case. Submitting your application early ensures that you can follow up on any requests without risking your work permit expiring before your new one arrives.
Ensure You Meet the Eligibility Requirements for Renewal
Before you begin the renewal process, make sure you still meet all of the eligibility criteria for DACA. In order to be eligible for DACA renewal, you must meet the following requirements:
- You were under the age of 31 as of June 15, 2012.
- You arrived in the United States before turning 16.
- You have continuously resided in the U.S. since June 15, 2007.
- You are currently enrolled in school, have graduated from high school, or have been honorably discharged from the U.S. military.
- You have not been convicted of a felony or significant misdemeanor.
If you no longer meet any of these requirements, you may not be eligible for a DACA renewal, which could result in the rejection of your application. It’s crucial to be honest and thorough when reviewing your eligibility before submitting your application.
Additionally, if you’ve had any legal issues or run-ins with the law, it’s important to seek legal advice before renewing your DACA. Even if you think a past charge or conviction is minor, it could have an impact on your eligibility for renewal.
If you’re unsure about your eligibility, it’s always best to consult an immigration attorney who can help you navigate the renewal process and ensure everything is in order.
Submit the Proper Fees and Payment Information
The DACA renewal process includes a required fee, which must be paid at the time of submission. As of now, the fee is $495, which covers the application fee and biometrics (such as fingerprints and a photograph). It’s important to ensure that you submit the correct fee and that your payment is processed properly.
USCIS accepts several forms of payment, including checks and money orders. Be sure to follow the instructions on the form carefully to avoid any mistakes in payment. If you are submitting the fee by credit card, be sure to complete the required form for payment and ensure the payment information is accurate.
In some cases, you may be eligible for a fee exemption or a fee reduction, especially if you can demonstrate financial hardship. If you believe you qualify for such an exemption, be sure to provide the necessary supporting documents with your application.
Failure to submit the correct payment could delay the renewal process, so it’s important to double-check everything before you submit your renewal application. If you’re not sure whether you qualify for an exemption or how to submit your payment properly, contact an immigration attorney who can assist you.
Consider Working with an Immigration Attorney
While the process for renewing a DACA work permit is straightforward, some applicants may have unique or complex cases that require expert legal assistance. For example, if you’ve had a change in your circumstances or if you’re concerned about potential legal issues affecting your renewal, it may be worth working with an immigration attorney who specializes in DACA and immigration law.
An attorney can help you ensure that your application is complete and accurate. They can also assist with any issues or concerns that might arise during the renewal process. Additionally, they can offer advice on how to maintain your DACA status and stay in compliance with immigration laws.
At The Scheer Immigration Law Group, our immigration attorneys are committed to helping individuals navigate the DACA renewal process smoothly. We understand the challenges that many DACA recipients face, and we offer compassionate and professional support to ensure that your renewal application is handled correctly.
Renewing your DACA work permit before it expires is essential to maintaining your ability to work legally in the United States. By applying early, ensuring you meet all eligibility requirements, and submitting the correct fees, you can successfully navigate the renewal process and avoid any disruptions in your work authorization.
If you need assistance with your DACA renewal or have questions about your eligibility, the attorneys at The Scheer Immigration Law Group are here to help. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and get the legal support you need to maintain your status and keep your work permit current.
