Free Resource · DFT Digital Multiservice

DACA Renewal Checklist 2026

Complete checklist of everything you need to prepare and submit a successful DACA renewal application. Check off each item as you go.

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Critical — do not skip

Standard requirement

1. Identity Documents

Gather before starting your application

Passport (foreign) — all pages, front and back

Expired passports are acceptable

Birth certificate with official translation (if not in English)

State-issued ID or Driver's License (if you have one)

Any USCIS documents showing prior immigration status

Arrival/Departure Record (I-94), if applicable

2. Proof of Continuous U.S. Presence

Must prove you were in the U.S. before age 16

School enrollment / transcripts / diplomas

Medical records with dates

Tax returns (Form 1040, W-2s) for recent years

Employment records / pay stubs

Utility bills, bank statements, or lease agreements

Church, community organization, or volunteer records

3. Required USCIS Forms

All three must be submitted together

Form I-821D — Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals

Download free at USCIS.gov

Form I-765 — Application for Employment Authorization

Select eligibility category (c)(33)

Form I-765WS — Worksheet (income-to-poverty calculation)

Must be filed alongside I-765

4. Filing Fee Payment

Current USCIS fee for DACA renewal

Check or money order for $495 (combined I-821D + I-765 fee)

Payable to: U.S. Department of Homeland Security

Do NOT send cash — check or money order only

Verify current fee at USCIS.gov before mailing

5. Education or Military Service

One of these must apply to you

High school diploma, GED, or currently enrolled in school

Current school enrollment letter or most recent transcript

Military discharge papers (Form DD-214), if applicable

6. Biometrics & Background Check

USCIS will schedule this separately

Disclose ALL criminal history (even dismissed charges)

Failure to disclose can result in denial or removal

Court records for any arrests or charges (certified copies)

Wait for your biometrics appointment notice (ASC) from USCIS

7. Mailing & Submission

How to correctly send your package

Use USPS Priority Mail with tracking or certified mail

Include all three forms in one sealed envelope

Keep copies of EVERYTHING before mailing

Check USCIS.gov for the current mailing address for your state

Do NOT use overnight or express international carriers (FedEx, UPS may be rejected)

8. After You Mail

Track and protect your application

Save your USPS tracking number

Watch for your I-797 Receipt Notice (arrives within 4–6 weeks)

Check case status at USCIS.gov using your receipt number

Update your USCIS mailing address if you move (Form AR-11)

Contact DFT if you receive an RFE or any unexpected USCIS notices

Important Disclaimer

This checklist is for informational purposes only. DFT Digital Multiservice is a Document Preparer Specialist — not an attorney. Requirements may change; always verify at USCIS.gov before submitting your application.

Want DFT to Handle the Entire Process?

We prepare all three forms, review your documents, and submit your complete package — remotely, anywhere in the U.S.

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