Form I-821D Processing Time
What Happens After Filing a DACA Renewal Application
Putting your DACA application in the mail is a big moment, but then the waiting begins. You’re probably anxious to know what happens after filing Form I-821D, Consideration of Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals, (and Forms I-765 and I-765WS), as well as how long it will take to receive your employment authorization card. We’ve provided an outline of the I-821D processing time and the different steps along the way.
Although the steps that take place are fairly consistent, the Form I-821D processing time will vary based on the USCIS case load and your ability to properly file an accurately prepared DACA application package. The following outline describes the basic steps of the I-821D time line for most people.

Receipt of Application
APPROXIMATELY 2 TO 3 WEEKS AFTER FILING
Tip: Save this important letter. 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.
Nearly 9% of DACA renewal applications are rejected, and thousands more are denied. A poorly prepared application can also delay the approval process and even create significant immigration problems. When you prepare your DACA package (I-821D, I-765, and I-765WS) on CitizenPath, we provide simple, step-by-step instructions and alerts to help you avoid costly delays. We even guarantee USCIS will approve your application. No credit card is required to try it.

Appointment Notice for Biometrics
APPROXIMATELY 2 TO 4 WEEKS AFTER FILINGBiometrics Appointment
APPROXIMATELY 3 TO 6 WEEKS AFTER FILINGThe biometrics appointment, also known as a biometrics screening, is generally a short appointment (approximately 30 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

Form I-821D Adjudication
APPROXIMATELY 2 TO 4 MONTHS AFTER FILINGNext in the I-821D 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.
Receive Your Employment Authorization Card
APPROXIMATELY 3 TO 6 MONTHS AFTER FILINGUSCIS will not begin processing Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization, until they approve your primary DACA application (Form I-821D). It generally takes at least 90 days to process the I-765 and produce your new employment authorization card (work permit). 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.
