What is DACA?
Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) is a program that provides temporary protection from deportation and work authorization for individuals who came to the United States as children. DACA recipients can live, work, and study in the U.S. without fear of removal.
DACA status must be renewed every two years. It's critical to file your renewal application on time to maintain continuous protection and work authorization.
DACA Benefits
DACA Renewals
When to Renew
You should file your DACA renewal application 120-150 days (4-5 months) before your current DACA expires. This ensures you maintain continuous protection and work authorization.
⚠️ Important: If your DACA expires before your renewal is approved, you will lose work authorization and could be subject to removal proceedings.
Renewal Requirements
Continuous Residence
You must have continuously resided in the United States since your most recent DACA approval.
No Significant Misdemeanors or Felonies
You must not have been convicted of a felony, significant misdemeanor, or three or more misdemeanors.
Not a Threat to National Security or Public Safety
You must not pose a threat to national security or public safety.
Advanced Parole for DACA Recipients
What is Advanced Parole?
Advanced parole is travel authorization that allows DACA recipients to leave the United States and return lawfully. Without advanced parole, leaving the U.S. will terminate your DACA status and could trigger immigration bars.
Advanced parole is granted for humanitarian reasons, educational purposes, or employment reasons. Common examples include visiting sick relatives abroad, attending academic conferences, or business travel.
Qualifying Reasons for Advanced Parole
Humanitarian
- • Visiting seriously ill family member
- • Attending funeral of family member
- • Receiving urgent medical treatment abroad
- • Family emergencies
Educational
- • Attending academic conferences
- • Study abroad programs
- • Research projects
- • Educational seminars
Employment
- • Business meetings abroad
- • Professional conferences
- • Work-related training
- • Client meetings
Critical Warning
NEVER travel outside the U.S. without approved advanced parole. Leaving without it will automatically terminate your DACA and could trigger a 3 or 10-year bar from returning to the United States.
You must receive your approved advanced parole document (Form I-512L) before you leave the U.S. Traveling on a pending application is not allowed.
Process & Timeline
DACA Renewal Timeline
File 120-150 days before expiration
Submit Form I-821D, I-765, and supporting documents
Receipt notice (2-4 weeks)
USCIS confirms receipt of your application
Biometrics (if required)
Fingerprinting appointment at ASC
Approval (3-5 months)
New EAD card mailed to you
Advanced Parole Timeline
File at least 4-6 months before travel
Submit Form I-131 with supporting evidence
Receipt notice (2-4 weeks)
USCIS confirms receipt
Biometrics (if required)
Fingerprinting appointment
Approval (4-8 months)
Travel document (Form I-512L) issued
Why Choose Zubkoff Law for DACA?
Timely Filings
We track your expiration dates and ensure your renewal is filed on time to maintain continuous protection.
Expert Guidance
We stay updated on DACA policy changes and provide accurate advice on your eligibility and options.
Advanced Parole Specialists
We help you build strong cases for advanced parole approval and ensure safe international travel.