Can I still renew my DACA in 2026 — and can new applicants apply?

4 min read · October 6, 2026

Yes, you can renew your DACA in 2026 if you already have the status. However, the courts currently prohibit the government from processing first-time applications for new beneficiaries.

Renewing DACA in 2026: What you should know

The Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program has been a lifeline for thousands of people. You may wonder what will happen to your status during this year. The short answer is that renewals remain in effect for those already in the program. However, the legal landscape remains very complex due to federal court decisions.

At Mendoza Immigration Law, we understand that your work permit and your protection from deportation are vital. Therefore, we want to explain how to navigate these current rules. Staying informed is the best way to protect your future in this country.

Who can apply for renewal in 2026?

If you already have DACA protection, you have the right to apply for a renewal. U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) continues to accept these petitions. It is essential that you do not let your permit expire. If your protection expires, you lose the right to work legally and remain exposed to immigration risks.

The process to extend your benefit requires submitting several forms. You must demonstrate that you continue to meet the requirements of good moral character and physical presence. We recommend reviewing our section on daca and tps to better understand the basic requirements.

The situation for new applicants

Unfortunately, there is difficult news for those who have never had DACA. Due to previous court orders, the government cannot grant DACA to new individuals at this time. If you have never had this benefit, you can submit your initial application, but USCIS will not process it. The agency will hold the filing but will not be able to approve it while the courts maintain the current restriction.

This situation is frustrating for many young people who just reached the necessary age. If this is your case, it is possible that there are other forms of humanitarian relief that you can explore. Do not assume you have no options just because DACA is blocked for new entries.

The importance of filing times

You should submit your renewal application well in advance. USCIS suggests doing so between 120 and 150 days before your current card expires. If you submit the application too early, the agency might return it. If you do it too late, you could be left without a work permit for weeks or months.

You can consult the current status of filings in our guide on the daca renewal 2026 status. Remember that processing delays are common. Planning ahead will give you peace of mind and job security.

Traveling abroad with Advance Parole

Many DACA beneficiaries do not know that they can apply for a travel permit. This document is known as Advance Parole. You can request it for educational, work, or humanitarian reasons. Traveling with this permit and returning legally can be very useful for your future.

In some cases, a legal entry with Advance Parole facilitates the path to other benefits. For example, this can help in family petition processes. To learn more about these strategies, you can read about the pathways to a green card for daca and tps. It is a technical topic, but very valuable for those seeking a permanent solution.

What happens if I have legal problems?

DACA is not a permanent status. The government can revoke it if you commit certain crimes. If you face criminal charges, your protection is in serious danger. In these situations, it is urgent to seek support in deportation defense.

Certain offenses can make you ineligible to renew. Even some minor crimes can cause serious problems with USCIS. Always better to be honest in your application and have professional advice if you have a criminal record.

Looking for permanent alternatives

DACA is a temporary solution that must be renewed every two years. However, many beneficiaries qualify for other benefits without knowing it. For example, if you marry a U.S. citizen, you could be eligible for an adjustment of status.

If you have a pending family petition but have unlawful presence, you might need a waiver. You can inform yourself about the i601a provisional waiver to see if it applies to your case. There are many laws that could benefit you beyond deferred action.

Prepare your renewal with care

To renew, you must complete the official forms and pay the current fee (consult uscis.gov for the current amount). Make sure to include recent photos and all necessary evidence. A simple error can cause the rejection of your package.

The future of this program remains in the hands of the judges. Meanwhile, take advantage of the right you have to keep your permit active. Keeping your DACA current is your best defense in the current system.

This page is general legal information for the U.S., not legal advice. Speak with a licensed attorney about your case.

Frequently asked questions

How long before my permit expires should I submit the renewal?

You should send your renewal package between 120 and 150 days before the expiration date of your current card. Submitting the application in this period helps to avoid interruptions in your work permit. If you send it later, you run the risk of your protection expiring before receiving the new approval.

Can I apply for DACA for the first time in 2026 if I have never had it?

You can submit an initial application to USCIS, but the agency will not be able to process or approve it due to existing court orders. Currently, federal courts have blocked the granting of new DACA benefits. We recommend consulting an attorney to explore other legal options that might be available to you.

What happens if my DACA expired more than a year ago?

If your DACA protection expired more than a year ago, you can no longer submit a simple renewal application. In that case, your petition would be considered an initial application. Due to current legal restrictions, initial applications are not being processed, so it is vital to always renew before expiration.

Is it possible to travel to Mexico or to other countries if I have DACA?

You can travel outside the United States only if you apply for and receive an Advance Parole document before leaving. Traveling without this prior permit will result in the automatic loss of your DACA and could prevent you from returning to the country. The travel permit is generally granted for work, study, or family emergency reasons.

Legal sources