Humanitarian
Form I-821D
Consideration of Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA)
Used to request deferred action under the DACA program for individuals who were brought to the U.S. as children and meet specific guidelines. Provides temporary protection from deportation and work authorization.
- Filing fee
- $85
- Biometrics
- No fee
Who can file
- Arrived in the U.S. before age 16
- Were under age 31 as of June 15, 2012
- Have continuously resided in the U.S. since June 15, 2007
- Were present in the U.S. on June 15, 2012 and at the time of filing
- Have no lawful immigration status
- Currently in school, have a GED/high school diploma, or are an honorably discharged veteran
Send with it
- Proof of identity (passport, birth certificate, school ID)
- Proof of arrival before age 16
- Proof of continuous residence since June 2007
- Proof of physical presence on June 15, 2012
- Proof of education or military service
- Passport-style photos
Worth knowing
- DACA status must be renewed every 2 years
- Note: DACA program availability may change based on court rulings and policy changes
- File renewal applications 5-6 months before expiration
- Keep meticulous records of continuous residence
- DACA does not provide a path to permanent residence by itself
Common mistakes
- Not renewing on time
- Gaps in continuous residence evidence
- Traveling outside the U.S. without advance parole
- Not understanding that DACA does not provide permanent status
Questions
- How much does Form I-821D cost?
- The USCIS filing fee for Form I-821D is $85.
- How long does Form I-821D take?
- Typically 3 to 12 months, depending on the office and the category. Check the current USCIS times for your office before you plan around it.
Often filed together with
Related forms
Fees are as published by USCIS. Confirm on USCIS's fee schedule (G-1055) before you pay - a wrong fee gets a filing rejected. General information, not legal advice.