do i need a cover letter for daca renewal

• Immigration

Guide to Writing an Effective DACA Renewal Cover Letter: Tips, USCIS Application Process, and Eligibility

A daca renewal cover letter is not required but recommended when applying for uscis' deferred action for childhood arrivals program. it can help explain unique circumstances and serve as an organizational tool. the cover letter should include the uscis lockbox address, date, subject line, greeting, a brief introduction, an ordered list of application contents, a closing paragraph, and the applicant's signature. supporting documents such as a photo id, form i-765, form i-765ws, and a copy of the current work permit should also be included in the application package. the filing fee is $495 and can be paid by money order or credit card. it is important to write the cover letter clearly, without stapling any documents, and using certified mail for submission..

Key Takeaways:

• Understanding DACA and Its Renewal Process: Learn about DACA, its benefits, and how to renew your status to stay protected and work legally in the U.S.
• Importance of a DACA Renewal Cover Letter: A cover letter helps organize your application and provides crucial information to USCIS officers.
• DACA Renewal Application Tips: Follow guidelines, include essential documents, pay the fee, and ensure clear communication with USCIS for a successful application.

Understanding DACA and Its Renewal Process

Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) is a policy that provides eligible undocumented immigrants with work permits and protection from deportation. The DACA status is granted for two years and can be renewed. To remain in this program, it’s vital to understand the DACA renewal cover letter and the USCIS application process.

The Importance of a DACA Renewal Cover Letter

While not mandatory, a DACA renewal cover letter is highly recommended. It helps organize your application and ensures that the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) officers have all the information they need to review your case. A cover letter can be especially beneficial if you have a complex situation that requires further explanation.

“A cover letter makes it easier for a USCIS officer to review your application without overlooking anything important.”

Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals Eligibility

To be eligible for DACA renewal, you must:

• Have previously been granted DACA status.
• Renew within a year of your last DACA status expiring, or else submit a new application.
• Have an upcoming DACA expiration date that is less than a year away.
• Not have left the U.S. without advance parole since your initial DACA acceptance.
• Have continuously resided in the U.S. since the last approved DACA application.
• Have no disqualifying criminal records.

For more detailed information on the eligibility criteria, visit the official USCIS DACA page.

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A well-prepared cover letter should include:

• The USCIS lockbox address where you’re mailing your application.
• The current date.
• A subject line with the purpose of the letter (e.g., “RE: Request for DACA Renewal”).
• A formal greeting.
• An introduction stating the purpose of the package.
• A list of enclosed documents.
• A conclusion with your contact information, followed by your signature and name.

Essential Documents to Include with Your Renewal Application

To renew your DACA status, you need several key documents:

• Photo identification, such as a birth certificate, school, or military ID.
• Two passport photos.
• Completed Form I-765 (Application for Employment Authorization).
• Completed Form I-765WS (Employment Authorization Worksheet).
• A copy of your current work permit (front and back).

Further details on the required documents can be found on the USCIS website.

Fee Payment for DACA Renewal

The DACA renewal process includes a $495 filing fee. Payment can be made via money orders payable to the “U.S. Department of Homeland Security” or by credit card using Form G-1450.

DACA Renewal Sample Cover Letter Template

Below is a sample cover letter template for a DACA renewal application. Remember, it’s important to personalize and adjust the template to your specific circumstances and include any relevant details about your situation.

[Your Name][Your Address][City, State, ZIP Code][Your Email Address][Your Phone Number][Date]

U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services[USCIS Service Center Address][City, State, ZIP Code]

Subject: DACA Renewal Application

Dear Sir/Madam,

I am writing to submit my application for the renewal of my Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) status. My current DACA status is set to expire on [Expiration Date], and I am seeking to maintain my eligibility for work authorization and protection from deportation.

Enclosed with this letter are the required forms and documents for my renewal application:

• Form I-821D, Consideration of Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals

Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization

Form I-765WS, Worksheet

Copy of my current Employment Authorization Document (EAD)

Two passport-style photographs

[Any other supporting documents, if applicable]

I have been a beneficiary of the DACA program since [Year of Initial Approval], and it has significantly impacted my life in a positive manner. Through DACA, I have been able to [mention specific benefits, such as work, education, community involvement].

[Include a paragraph about your personal story, background, educational achievements, community service, or work experience that may strengthen your application. Explain how DACA has helped you and why its continuation is important for your future.]

I respectfully request that my DACA status be renewed, allowing me to continue contributing positively to my community and the United States. I am committed to upholding the responsibilities that come with this status and am hopeful for a favorable decision.

Thank you for considering my application. If there are any questions or if additional information is required, please feel free to contact me at [Your Phone Number] or via email at [Your Email Address].

[Your Name]

This template is a basic guide and should be tailored to fit your individual situation. Be sure to review all requirements and provide all necessary documentation as outlined by USCIS for DACA renewals.

Tips for a Successful DACA Renewal Application

• Write your cover letter clearly and type it up if possible to facilitate easy reading and comprehension.
• Do not staple your documents—use paper clips instead.
• Mail your application package via certified mail for tracking and proof of delivery.

Remember, your cover letter is your chance to communicate directly with USCIS, increasing the likelihood that your renewal is processed smoothly.

For a sample DACA renewal cover letter and additional tips on the USCIS application process, please refer to trusted resources and always keep updated with the latest immigration forms and guidelines directly from USCIS .

By maintaining an orderly application with a comprehensive cover letter, you’re taking a significant step towards securing your status under DACA and continuing your life in the United States with less uncertainty.

And there you have it! That’s everything you need to know about understanding DACA and its renewal process. So grab your pen, prepare your paperwork, and get ready to charm those USCIS officers with a killer cover letter. And hey, if you want more tips and tricks on navigating the immigration world, head over to visaverge.com. They’ve got all the juicy details to help you on your immigration journey. Good luck!

This Article in a Nutshell:

DACA provides work permits and protection from deportation. Understand the DACA renewal process. A cover letter is recommended to help USCIS officers review your case. Eligibility includes having been granted DACA status, renewing within a year of expiration, and continuously residing in the US. Include essential documents and a $495 filing fee. Follow tips for a successful application.

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For: Immigrants

• January 8, 2021
• Updated: September 15, 2021

How to set up your DACA Application Cover Letter

So I have completed all the forms, gathered all documentation necessary, I am ready to send in my DACA application package! What now?

When sending in your DACA application,  it is helpful to include a cover letter. This will help you keep your application organized and serve as a table of contents to the USCIS officer reviewing your documents to walk them through your package.

You can also use your cover letter as a checklist to ensure you have included all necessary forms and documents in your application package.

You cover letter should include:

• USCIS Lockbox Address where you’re sending your application.
• Date of letter
• A subject (re:) line
• A brief introductory paragraph/sentence to say what’s in the letter and package.
• A list of content in the application packet in order of inclusion in your packet.
• Closing, signature and printed name.

Remember not to staple any of the documents, use paper clips if necessary.

Only submit copies of your documents and the original forms, keep originals of all documents used for proof.

Mail in your package as certified mail.

Here is a sample letter that you can edit depending on what you are including in the packet:

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Home » USCIS Cover Letter Samples: A Complete Guide

USCIS Cover Letter Samples

Sample uscis cover letter by form type.

Form I-90 | Form I-129F | Form I-130 | Form I-131 | Form I-485 | Form I-751 | Form I-765 | Form I-821D | Form N-400 | Form N-565 | Form N-600

A cover letter is an overview document that gives the USCIS officer a quick summary of what to expect in the application package. Generally, it should include an outline of the contents. In some cases, it may be a good way to communicate any special circumstances that you have.

Use each sample USCIS cover letter as an example only. You’ll need to customize it to fit your own specific situation. Although supporting documents listed in the letter may be representative of a typical case, you may need different evidence based on the way you prepared the USCIS form. Use CitizenPath to get step-by-step instructions and a checklist of supporting documents.

Form I-90 Cover Letter Sample

Form i-129f cover letter sample, form i-130 cover letter sample, form i-131 cover letter sample, form i-485 cover letter sample, form i-751 cover letter sample, form i-765 cover letter sample, form i-821d cover letter sample, form n-400 cover letter sample, form n-565 cover letter sample, form n-600 cover letter sample, tips when writing a letter.

The USCIS generally is not required when filing an immigration application or petition. However, it is recommended. A well written letter projects care and professionalism. If you present your case with pride and attention to detail, it’s more likely that a USCIS officer will notice the importance you place on the request. With this in mind:

• Keep your cover letter short and simple;
• Use typed English on single-sided white paper;
• Proofread before sending.

What to Include in Your USCIS Cover Letter

Our examples are for informational purposes only. You must review and customize the letter for your specific use. In general, a USCIS cover letter should contain the following elements:

• USCIS address
• Date of filing
• Subject line that identifies the relevant benefit
• Short introductory paragraph describing the purpose of the letter
• List of the documents in your package that support your request for the immigration benefit
• Name and signature

The USCIS filing fee, supporting documents, and mailing address will vary based on form and other factors. You may find this information on the USCIS website . If you’re using CitizenPath to prepare your application or petition , you’ll receive filing instructions that are customized to your situation. Our filing instructions include easy-to-follow directions and a checklist of supporting documents.

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Important Notice!

If you are encountering technical difficulties with the online registration process for the DACA renewal clinics, please contact the DREAMLine (855-313-7326) from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm Monday through Friday to register by speaking with our clinic coordinator.

We HIGHLY encourage you to secure registration for a virtual DACA Renewal Clinic at least six months before the expiration date on your EAD (Employment Authorization Document/work permit) to minimize the risk of a lapse in your DACA status.

NOTE: Our virtual DACA renewal clinics fill up fast, and typically fill out at least one month in advance.

Information on DACA Renewal Clinics

NWIRP, through its partnership with Microsoft and with the law firm of Perkins Coie LLP, offers free monthly virtual DACA clinics to assist clients seeking to renew their DACA status. We want to extend our deepest gratitude to our partners at Microsoft and Perkins Coie LLP (and all those involved in making these virtual DACA clinics possible) who continue to serve our clients during these challenging times.

Due to the current COVID-19 crisis, all clinics remain virtual at this time. See below for the current DACA Clinic schedule. Please click the “Register for a DACA Renewal Clinic” button below to verify your eligibility to attend and to register for a virtual DACA renewal clinic. If you are encountering technical difficulties with the online registration process for the DACA renewal clinics, please contact the DREAMLine (855-313-7326) from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm Monday through Friday to register by speaking with our clinic coordinator.

Upcoming Clinics

Daca renewal clinics – frequently asked questions, how do i know if i qualify for a virtual daca renewal clinic appointment.

Currently, virtual DACA Renewal Clinic appointments are reserved for clients who meet the following criteria:

1. Your DACA status is current (the expiration date can be found in the lower right corner of your Employment Authorization Document (EAD / work permit)) OR your DACA status expired less than nine months from when you are seeking to renew. 2. You have no new criminal charges or arrest history since your last DACA renewal application was submitted. (Minor traffic violations such as speeding and parking tickets are not considered criminal charges.) 3. You currently reside in Washington State. (If you live outside of Washington State, please visit this website which provides a map of resource providers near you.)

If you meet these criteria, you are eligible for a virtual DACA Renewal Clinic appointment. If you are unsure if you qualify please call the DREAMLine (855-313-7326) from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Monday through Friday to speak with our clinic coordinator to assess whether we can help you.

How much does it cost to attend a virtual DACA Renewal Clinic?

Thanks to our generous partners at Microsoft and Perkins Coie LLP and to the volunteers who continue to serve our clients, our DACA renewal clinics are completely free.

Please note that there are costs associated with submitting a DACA renewal application. These include the cost associated with obtaining two passport-style photos, and a money order or check for $495 payable to the “U.S. Department of Homeland Security.”

How do I sign up for a virtual DACA Renewal Clinic?

You have two options to register for a virtual DACA Renewal Clinic: 1. Online: Go to the “Register for a DACA Renewal Clinic” link across the top of this page to register online OR 2. Via Phone: Call the DREAMLine (855-313-7326) from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm Monday through Friday to register by speaking with our clinic coordinator.

Can I pick the date of the virtual DACA Renewal Clinic I attend?

Yes. Whether you sign up by using the online format or calling the DREAMLine, you can pick which of our available virtual DACA Renewal Clinic dates you wish to attend, space permitting.

Please keep in mind that, due to USCIS processing times, we HIGHLY recommend that you schedule your DACA Renewal Clinic appointment at least six months before the expiration date on your Employment Authorization Document (EAD /work permit) to minimize the risk of a lapse in your DACA status.

What documents do you need from me to sign up for a virtual DACA Renewal Clinic?

To sign up for a virtual DACA Renewal Clinic, you will need the following documents ready in a CLEAR, READABLE, PDF FORMAT. If you need instructions on how to scan using your cell phone, please view our instructions for scanning documents: English | Spanish .

• ALL PAGES of your entire prior DACA Renewal Application Packet, which includes Form I-821D, Form I-765, and Form I-765WS Worksheet. If you do not have your prior application, you can provide the most recent copy you have. Sample I-821D     Sample I-765     Sample I-765WS
• FRONT AND BACK COPY of your most recent Employment Authorization Document (EAD / work permit). Sample Employment Authorization Document (EAD / work permit)

If you no longer have these documents, please contact the DREAMLine (855-313-7326) from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Monday through Friday to speak with our clinic coordinator.

What if I no longer have one of the documents you need?

When must i have all my documents submitted in order to attend my daca renewal clinic appointment.

All documents are due by 5:00 p.m. Pacific Time the Thursday prior to your virtual DACA Renewal Clinic appointment.

What happens if I can’t get all of the documents in on time?

You will be removed from the virtual DACA Renewal Clinic and your spot will be given to another applicant. Please note that spots in our clinics are limited. You can always contact us to register for a future virtual DACA Renewal Clinic.

Note: Due to USCIS processing times, you should schedule your virtual DACA Renewal Clinic appointment at least six months before your DACA status is set to expire to minimize the risk of a lapse in your DACA status.

Where do I upload documents?

Please note that your virtual DACA Renewal Clinic appointment is not officially reserved unless we receive all of your documentation prior to the deadline (See “When must I have all my documents submitted in order to attend my DACA Renewal Clinic appointment?”). 

If you sign up through our website , you can follow the prompts telling you which documents you need to submit and how to upload them. Once you have responded to all of the questions and uploaded all required documents, you will receive confirmation of your appointment within two business days.*

* If you have not received an email within two business days, please contact us via email ([email protected]) or by calling the DREAMLine (855-313-7326) from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Monday through Friday. Please remember to check your email’s spam mailbox before contacting us.

**If your documents are not in pdf format they will be rejected. If you need instructions on how to scan using a smartphone or tablet, please click here .

Will I receive confirmation that I am signed up for a clinic?

If you sign up through our website , you will receive an automatic confirmation that your documents have been received and are being reviewed. Once your documents have been approved, you will receive an email confirmation that you are officially registered for the virtual DACA Renewal Clinic.

If you sign up by calling the DREAMLine, you will receive an initial email with your tentative virtual DACA Renewal Clinic appointment date, and how to submit your documents for review. Once your documents have been approved, you will receive an email confirmation that you are officially registered for the virtual DACA Renewal Clinic.

Note: Your reserved spot at a clinic is not a confirmed appointment until your documents are submitted and approved by our clinic coordinator before the given deadline. (See “What happens if I can’t get all of the documents in on time?”)

What happens after I sign up for a virtual DACA Renewal Clinic?

Our clinic coordinator will review your documents. If your documents are in the proper format, you will receive an email confirmation that you are officially registered for the virtual DACA Renewal Clinic.

If your documents are not in their proper format, or we are missing documents, our clinic coordinator will contact you so that we can work with you to finalize your document submission and confirm your appointment.

You will receive reminders about the DACA Renewal Clinic with the last reminder being sent a day before the clinic. The message subject line will read:  [NWIRP DACA Clinic] .  Please check your spam folders.

What happens during the virtual DACA Renewal Clinic?

During the virtual DACA Renewal Clinic, one of our volunteers will call you via a regular phone call (no video) to review your application and ask clarifying questions. Although volunteers typically call within the first hour of the virtual DACA Renewal Clinic, they may call you at any time during the two-hour window, so please make sure that you are available during the whole time block.

The Clinic volunteer will call from an unknown/blocked number. Clinic volunteers are instructed to identify themselves. The Clinic volunteer will make any needed edits to your forms based on your conversation, and complete a final draft of your forms. Please have the documents you submitted as part of your registration process on hand in case the volunteer has a specific question about one of your documents.

IMPORTANT NOTES REGARDING PHONES: If the current settings on your phone block unknown numbers, you MUST disable that setting for the complete duration of the virtual DACA Renewal Clinic. The Clinic volunteer will be calling you from an unknown/blocked number and may need to reach you more than once.

If your phone does not accept calls from unknown/blocked numbers, please let us know before the clinic so that we can best route your case. You can provide us with this information by sending an email to [email protected].

What happens after the virtual DACA Renewal Clinic? How do I get and mail my forms?

Within two business days after the virtual DACA Renewal Clinic, everyone who attends a virtual DACA Renewal Clinic will automatically receive an Instructions Letter from [email protected] outlining any remaining steps you need to take, a cover letter to be sent to USCIS along with your DACA application packet, and the final draft of your forms. Please note: when you register for a virtual DACA Renewal Clinic, you will have the option to choose whether you would like for us to also mail you a printed copy of the above. If you select this option, we will automatically mail you the documents within two business days of your DACA Renewal Clinic appointment.

After we send you your application materials, our services are complete and we will close your case. We have no way to save your completed renewal application packet. We HIGHLY recommend you scan and save your completed renewal application packet, along with tracking information, for your records.

Once you receive your draft DACA application materials from us, you will need to follow the instructions in the Instructions Letter and, after you have made any necessary edits, you will send the DACA application packet to USCIS . The mailing addresses will be on the draft cover letter. Please note that there is a different mailing address if you mail via the U.S. Post Office versus FedEx or UPS. Please make sure that you have checked the appropriate box on your cover letter and that you use the correct mailing address on the mailing envelope. Whichever form of mailing you use, make sure that you can track your application packet.

Please remember that you will need to attach a check or money order payable to the “U.S. Department of Homeland Security” for $495, and two passport-style photos to your application . Many pharmacies and mail services are able to take passport photos for you.

IMPORTANT: Though we do review your application for errors prior to sending it to you, it is your responsibility to carefully look through your application before signing to ensure all information is true and accurate.

What happens after I mail my application packet to USCIS?

After USCIS receives your application packet, you should receive two receipt notices, one for your Form I-821D (DACA application) and one for your Form I-765 (employment authorization application). The receipt notices may take several weeks to arrive. Each receipt notice will indicate the date that USCIS received your application and will provide you with a receipt number.

After USCIS ensures that your application is complete, you may receive a biometrics appointment notice. If so, you must attend the biometrics appointment at the date and time indicated on the notice , or USCIS may deny your application.

You will then wait until USCIS issues a decision on your application. This process may take anywhere from several weeks to several months.

How can I check the status of my application?

Your receipt notice for your Form I-821D (DACA application) and for your Form I-765 (employment authorization application) will each contain a receipt number. You can use the receipt number to monitor your case’s status by using USCIS’s online “My Case Status” tool, located at https://egov.uscis.gov/casestatus/landing.do . You can enter the receipt number from either the I-821D or I-765 receipt notice.

You can also check the processing times of DACA applications by visiting https://egov.uscis.gov/processing-times/ and selecting the Service Center that is stated on your receipt notice, usually found on the lower left-hand side.

How do I cancel or reschedule my DACA Renewal Clinic appointment?

If you need to cancel/reschedule your appointment , or have any questions not answered in our FAQs, please send an email to [email protected] or contact the DREAMLine (855-313-7326) from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Monday through Friday to speak with our clinic coordinator.

Please note that although we try to update the information contained on this page frequently, the DACA landscape is continuously changing and this page may not have the most up-to-date information. We always encourage you to seek legal advice.

If you would like additional information on DACA, please review our DACA General Information Page here.

What Supporting Documents Do I Need for a DACA Application? Checklists for New Applications and Renewals

When you file your DACA renewal or new DACA application, you will need to submit supporting documents to prove that you are eligible for DACA. The documents you need to submit will be different depending on whether you are renewing or applying for the first time. They will also vary based on your personal background. This article provides document checklists for all scenarios so that you can confidently apply for your DACA renewal or initial DACA status without an attorney.

Written by Jonathan Petts .  Written May 25, 2022

If You’re Submitting an Initial DACA Application

As of October 31, 2022, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) is accepting but not processing first-time Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) applications and accompanying employment authorization requests. But the agency is accepting and processing applications for renewal of DACA status and accompanying employment authorization and advance parole requests. The situation may change in the future, so we want to make sure that you are ready when it does. 

To submit a new DACA application and hold your place in line for when USCIS does begin processing initial applications, you must file these three forms:

Form I-821D: Consideration of Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals

‍ Form I-765: Application for Employment Authorization

Form I-765WS

Supporting Document Checklist for a New DACA Application

In addition to the forms above, you must submit two recent passport photos with your application and pay the filing and biometrics fees. The total fee for a DACA application is $495. The full charge includes the $410 work authorization fee for Form I-765 and an $85 biometrics fee. You can pay the fees either with a credit card or by check or money order. Make your check or money orders payable to the “U.S. Department of Homeland Security”. If you want to pay your filing fees with a credit card, you must submit Form G-1450: Authorization for Credit Card Transactions with your application.

Some applicants qualify for a fee waiver that allows them to avoid paying these fees. To qualify for DACA status, you must provide sufficient evidence to prove your eligibility in several categories. Keep reading to see what supporting documentation you need. 

‍Your Identity

Submit at least oneof these documents to prove that you are who you say you are:

Birth certificate with photo identification

Passport or national I.D. from your country of origin

School I.D. with photo

Military I.D. with photo

Any U.S. government immigration document with your name and photo on it

Entering the U.S. Before Your 16th Birthday

Submit at least one of these documents that shows that you came to the U.S. before your 16th birthday: 

Expired Immigration Status

If applicable, submit at least oneof these documents that shows that you had immigration status that has expired:

Form I-94, I-94W or I-95 showing authorized stay expiration date

Final order of exclusion, deportation, or removal issued as of June 15, 2012

A charging document placing you into removal proceedings

Living in U.S. Since June 15, 2007, and Present in the U.S. on June 15, 2012

‍ Submit at least oneof these documents that shows you were living in the U.S. during this time frame: 

Passport entries

Copies of money order receipts for money sent within the U.S. or from the U.S. to a person or place outside the U.S.

Dated bank transactions

Tax receipts or insurance policies

Automobile license receipts or registration

Deeds, mortgages, or rental agreement contracts

Official records from a U.S.-based religious entity confirming your participation in a religious ceremony

Rent receipts or utility bills

Employment records (W-2 forms, pay stubs, etc.)

U.S. school records (report cards, transcripts, etc.)

Birth certificates of children born in the U.S.

Military records (Form DD-214 or NGB Form 22)

Student Status

If applicable, submit at least one of these documents that shows that you are currently a student: 

Official records from the school you are currently attending in the U.S. (transcripts, report cards, etc.)

U.S. high school diploma or certificate of completion

U.S. GED certificate

Honorably Discharged U.S. Coast Guard or U.S. Armed Forces Veteran

If applicable, submit at least oneof these documents that shows you are a U.S. Coast Guard or U.S. Armed Forces veteran who was honorably discharged: 

Military personnel records

Military health records

Form DD-214 (Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty)

NGB Form 22 (Natural Guard Report of Separation and Record of Service) 

Compiling Your Initial Application Packet

When you are ready to submit your application, you should organize your forms, filing fees, passport photos, and the required supporting documents into a filing packet to mail to the USCIS lockbox or service center. We recommend that you include a cover letter at the front of your immigration packet that lists the forms and documents included in your application. This summary letter makes it easy for USCIS to review your application. You are welcome to use this sample DACA application cover letter as a template.

Go ahead and make a copy of everything in your renewal packet (including your check or money order) for your records. You should not submit original documents for anything other than passport photos to USCIS. You may not get these materials back. Instead, submit copies of the original documents with your renewal packet. 

If You’re Submitting a DACA Renewal Application

Unlike new DACA applications, DACA renewals don't require many supporting documents unless something has changed since the most recently approved application. For example, you may need additional supporting documents if any of the following happened since your most recently approved DACA renewal:

You were charged with a significant misdemeanor. 

A judge ruled that you were a threat to national security or public safety.

You enlisted in the U.S. Coast Guard or Army.

Supporting Document Checklist for a DACA Renewal Application

A completed DACA renewal and work permit application must include the following supporting documents, in addition to a completed Form I-821D , Form I-765 , and Form I-765WS :

$495 filing fees ($410 for the work permit and $85 for biometrics services)

You can pay this with either a check or money order paid to the U.S. Department of Homeland Security or a completed Form G-1450 if you prefer to pay with a credit card.

Two recent passport photos

A copy of the front and back of your current Employment Authorization Document (EAD)

Any documents related to changes to your application since your last approval

If you would like to receive email notifications about your DACA application, you should complete Form G-1145 as well.

Compiling Your Renewal Application Packet

Organize everything into a filing packet to mail to the USCIS lockbox or service center. It’s a good idea to include a cover letter at the front of your immigration packet that lists the forms and documents included in your packet. This summary letter allows USCIS to easily review your application. Feel free to use this sample DACA application cover letter as a template.

Make a copy of everything in your renewal packet, including your check or money order, for your records. You should not submit original documents for anything other than passport photos to USCIS. You may not get them back. Instead, submit copies of the original documents with your renewal packet.

Check out our DACA renewal guide for more frequently asked questions about the renewal process.

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USCIS Announces Online Filing for DACA Renewal Forms

WASHINGTON — U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services announced today that individuals who previously received deferred action under Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) may now file Form I-821D, Consideration of Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals , online.

“The expansion of online filing is a priority for USCIS as we make our operations more efficient and effective for the agency and our stakeholders, applicants, petitioners and requestors,” said USCIS Director Ur M. Jaddou. “The option to file DACA renewal requests online is part of USCIS’ ongoing move to minimize reliance on paper records and further transition to an electronic environment.”

At this time, the option to file online is only available for individuals who have previously been granted DACA. Such individuals must also file Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization , which is available for online filing, as well as the Form I-765 Worksheet, which is required as evidence in support of the filing for DACA.

During fiscal year (FY) 2021, USCIS received more than 8.8 million requests for immigration benefits and other requests, including 438,950 Form I-821D DACA requests. Since launching online filing in 2017, the overall number of forms filed online has increased significantly. In FY 2021, approximately 1,210,700 applications, petitions and requests were filed online, a 2.3% increase from the 1,184,000 filed in FY 2020.

To file Form I-821D and Form I-765 online, a DACA requestor must first create a USCIS online account , which provides a convenient and secure method to submit forms, pay fees and track the status of any pending USCIS immigration request throughout the adjudication process. There is no cost to set up an account, which offers a variety of features, including the ability to communicate with USCIS through a secure inbox and respond online to Requests for Evidence.

With the addition of online filing for Form I-821D, individuals can now file 13 USCIS forms online, which can all be found on the  Forms Available to File Online  page. USCIS continues to accept the latest paper versions of all forms by mail.

Consistent with a court order issued in State of Texas, et al., v. United States of America, et al., 1:18-CV-00068 (S.D. Tex. July 16, 2021), the Department of Homeland Security continues to accept the filing of both initial and renewal DACA requests, as well as accompanying requests for employment authorization. However, under the July 16, 2021, order issued by the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Texas, DHS is prohibited from granting initial DACA requests.

For more information on USCIS and its programs, please visit  uscis.gov  or follow us on Twitter , Instagram , YouTube , Facebook and LinkedIn .

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DACA Application Sample Cover Letter

This is a sample cover letter that can be used when submitting a DACA application. This is a sample cover letter that can be used when submitting a DACA application.

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DACA RENEWAL COVER LETTER

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