Form I-821D Processing Times 2026

As of April 2026, I-821D DACA renewal processing takes 4–10 months at most USCIS lockbox locations. Processing times vary significantly by service center and current case volume. Renewal applications filed with a prior DACA approval in good standing typically process faster (4–6 months) than initial requests. USCIS has been processing DACA renewals more consistently since the 2023 injunction reinstating the program. Check current times at usvisastack.ai/processing-times/i-821d. Note: Always file at least 120 days before your current DACA expires to avoid a lapse in work authorization.

While your DACA renewal is pending and you have not received a new EAD, you cannot work without employment authorization. If your prior DACA has expired and you have a pending renewal, you may be able to continue working under the "pending renewal" provision if: the renewal was filed before the prior DACA expired, and your EAD category code still covers your current employment. If your DACA has been expired for more than one year, you may not qualify for pending renewal work authorization. Consult a immigration attorney or DOJ-accredited representative before assuming you can work while renewal is pending.

As of April 2026: $495 base fee for I-821D (DACA request). An additional $85 biometric services fee applies (total: $580). Fee waivers are available for applicants with household income at or below 150% of the federal poverty guidelines — use Form I-912 to request a fee waiver. The I-765 (work permit) is typically filed concurrently with I-821D for $520 additional, for a total of $1,100 when requesting both DACA status and work authorization together.

If your DACA renewal is denied, you will receive a denial notice explaining the reason. Common reasons for denial include: failure to maintain continuous residence in the US, prior criminal history that did not appear in the initial request, changes in the law since your prior approval, or insufficient documentation. You cannot appeal a DACA denial — but you may request reconsideration or file a new initial request if circumstances change. A denial does not necessarily mean you must leave the US — consult an immigration attorney before taking any action. DACA denial may also affect your work authorization if you have pending I-765.

Traveling abroad with DACA is only possible if you have an approved Advance Parole (Form I-131) before departing the US. DACA recipients who travel without advance parole generally lose their DACA status upon departure — the act of leaving US territory triggers an end to DACA. With advance parole, you can travel for humanitarian, educational, or employment purposes and return to the US without abandoning your DACA. File I-131 concurrently with your I-821D renewal and await approval before making any travel plans. Advance parole processing for DACA typically takes 4–7 months.