DACA Processing Time
What Happens After Filing a DACA Renewal ApplicationSteps in the USCIS Process
DACA Processing Statistics
1. Receipt of Application
Approximately 2 to 4 Weeks After Filing
A complete DACA application includes Form I-821D, Consideration of Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals, Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization, and Form I-765WS. If filed correctly, USCIS will initially respond by mailing you a receipt notice that confirms receipt of your application. Formally known as Form I-797C, Notice of Action (see example below), the receipt notice typically arrives 2 to 4 weeks after filing. If you did not properly file your application package, USCIS will send a Notice of Action to reject the application. A rejection will significantly delay your request and overall DACA processing time. Thus, it's important to prepare the DACA application package correctly and submit all required supporting documents. Learn how.
Save your I-821D receipt notice. It contains your 10-digit receipt number. You can use this receipt number to check your case status. If you didn’t receive a Notice of Action, you can make a case inquiry.
I-821D Rejection Statistics
Source: USCIS FY24
2. Biometrics Appointment
Approximately 4 to 6 Weeks After Filing
Next, USCIS mails an appointment notice that assigns your biometrics appointment date, time and location. (The location will generally be the USCIS Application Support Center nearest you.) USCIS requires applicants to be fingerprinted for the purpose of conducting a security clearance and criminal background check. Don’t be alarmed — All applicants must have background checks.
The USCIS biometrics appointment, also known as a biometric screening, is generally a short appointment (less than 20 minutes) so that USCIS can collect your fingerprints, photograph and signature. Your appointment notice will tell you what you need to take to the appointment. Expect to take some form of government-issued photo identification to enter the building. USCIS can accept ID documents such as:
- Passport or national photo identification issued by your country
- Driver’s license
- Military photo identification
- State-issued photo identification card
This is not an interview. The appointment’s purpose is to collect your biometrics information only. Try to attend the appointment as scheduled. Rescheduling the biometrics appointment will lengthen your the DACA processing time. If you think you might have a criminal record (even a DUI), contact an immigration lawyer before going to a biometrics appointment. Some crimes will make you ineligible for immigration benefits.
I-821D Historical Processing Times at USCIS
The graph below illustrates median processing times (in months) for the previous 10 fiscal years. Form I-821D is the first segment in the total DACA processing time line. Once approved, USCIS will evaluate the Form I-765 portion of the application package.
Source: USCIS
3. Form I-821D Adjudication
Approximately 2 to 3 Months After Filing
Next in the DACA processing time line, USCIS will review your case and make a decision. If everything goes well, USCIS will approve your Form I-821D, and you will receive another I-797 letter to inform you in writing. USCIS does not begin processing Form I-765 until the I-821D is approved. If USCIS denies your application, they will mail you a notice explaining the reason.
I-821D Backlog Report
The graph below shows the number of open cases at the end of each fiscal year. DACA application backlog has held steady over the past few years, but renewal applications have also dropped off as fewer individuals request a renewal.
Source: USCIS
4. Receive Your Employment Authorization Card
Approximately 1 to 3 Months After I-821D Approval
USCIS will not begin processing Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization, until they approve your primary DACA application (Form I-821D). Evaluating Form I-765 and producing your new employment authorization card (work permit) generally adds another 1-3 months to the DACA processing time. Make sure USCIS has a current and safe address where you can receive mail.
Currently, USCIS is granting DACA and producing EAD cards that are valid for a period of one year only.
Total DACA Processing Time
USCIS has a stated goal to processing DACA applications within 120 days. Real processing times have been much longer, but the Biden administration appears to be making some improvements.
Although the steps that take place are fairly consistent, the DACA processing time will vary based on the USCIS case load, the USCIS office where you filed, and your ability to properly file an accurately prepared DACA application package. You only have control over the preparation.
CitizenPath Helps Optimize Your Processing Time
How long does it take to renew DACA?
Our goal is to help you renew DACA status and get your new work permit as soon as possible. And our customers generally experience some of the best DACA processing times because of our approach. Our objective is to help you prepare an application that meets the eligibility requirements and is sufficiently documented to avoid RFEs and denials. Our system was designed by experienced attorneys. Yet, we offer an affordable online system to prepare your application and guarantee USCIS approval.
STEP 1 | Check Eligibility | |
We're going to ask you a few questions to make sure you're eligible and preparing the correct form. | ||
STEP 2 | Prepare DACA Application | |
Our software will guide you through the DACA application using simple step-by-step instructions. | ||
STEP 3 | Download, Print and File | |
Once you're completely satisfied, you’ll be able to print your DACA application and customized filing instructions. | ||
Learn more about CitizenPath's