For many years, DACA renewals were considered one of the more predictable immigration applications processed by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). In fiscal year 2025, many applicants received approvals in just a few weeks.
That has changed.
Throughout 2026, thousands of Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) recipients have experienced significant delays in receiving renewal decisions. Some applicants who filed within the recommended filing window have waited four to six months—or even longer—for USCIS to adjudicate their cases. As a result, many Dreamers have lost their employment authorization, driver’s licenses, and, in some cases, their jobs while waiting for USCIS to act.
If your DACA renewal is taking longer than expected, you are not alone.
At the Law Office of Dahlia Castillo, PLLC, we understand the uncertainty these delays create. We proudly assist immigrants throughout Fayetteville, Cumberland County, Harnett County, Wake County, Fort Liberty, and across North Carolina with DACA renewals and other immigration matters.
Are DACA Renewals Still Being Processed in 2026?
Yes.
Although ongoing federal litigation continues to prevent USCIS from approving most initial DACA requests, the agency continues to accept and adjudicate renewal applications for individuals who currently have or previously had DACA, provided they remain eligible.
Why Are DACA Renewals Taking Longer in 2026?
Several factors appear to be contributing to the increase in processing times.
1. Increased Security Screening
Many immigration advocates believe USCIS has implemented additional security screening and background review procedures, resulting in significantly longer adjudication times for some applicants. While USCIS has not publicly detailed every internal procedure, members of Congress have raised concerns regarding prolonged processing and requested explanations from the agency.
2. Biometrics Appointments
Some applicants who previously received biometric reuse notices are now being scheduled for new fingerprint appointments. If a biometrics appointment is required, the case generally cannot move forward until the appointment is completed.
Missing or rescheduling a biometrics appointment can further delay processing.
3. Higher Processing Volumes and Agency Workload
USCIS continues to process millions of immigration applications each year across numerous benefit categories. Combined with staffing challenges and shifting agency priorities, these workloads have contributed to longer wait times for many DACA renewals.
4. Increased Congressional Concern
The delays have become significant enough that members of both political parties have written to the Department of Homeland Security and USCIS requesting immediate action.
Lawmakers reported that applicants who filed on time were nevertheless waiting up to six months, causing many to lose employment authorization through no fault of their own.
How Long Are DACA Renewals Taking in 2026?
According to publicly available USCIS data discussed by higher education organizations and members of Congress:
- The median processing time increased from approximately two weeks during FY 2025 to about 2.3 months in early 2026.
- Many applicants are now experiencing four-month processing times.
- Some renewal cases have remained pending for more than six months.
Although USCIS continues to state that its goal is to process DACA renewals within 120 days, actual processing times vary considerably by case.
When Should You File Your DACA Renewal?
USCIS continues to recommend submitting your renewal:
- Approximately 150 days (5 months) before your DACA expires
- No later than 120 days (4 months) before expiration
Filing earlier than 150 days generally does not result in faster processing, while filing later than 120 days increases the risk that your work authorization will expire before USCIS issues a decision.
What Happens If Your DACA Expires Before USCIS Makes a Decision?
Unfortunately, DACA recipients generally do not receive an automatic extension of their employment authorization while a renewal application is pending.
If your current Employment Authorization Document (EAD) expires before your renewal is approved, you may experience:
- Loss of work authorization
- Suspension or termination of employment
- Difficulty renewing your North Carolina driver’s license
- Loss of employment benefits
- Increased financial hardship
For many Dreamers, even a short interruption in employment can create serious financial consequences.
What Should You Do If Your Renewal Is Delayed?
If your application has been pending longer than expected, consider the following steps:
Continue Monitoring Your USCIS Online Account
Check regularly for updates, Requests for Evidence (RFEs), or biometrics appointment notices.
Attend Every Biometrics Appointment
Failing to appear for your scheduled appointment may significantly delay your case.
Submit a Case Inquiry
USCIS generally permits applicants to submit an inquiry after a DACA renewal has been pending beyond the agency’s inquiry threshold, which is typically around 105 days.
Speak With an Experienced Immigration Attorney
An attorney can review your case, determine whether additional action may be appropriate, and evaluate whether there are issues affecting your eligibility or processing.
Frequently Asked Questions About DACA Renewal Delays
Can I continue working while my DACA renewal is pending?
Generally, no. Unlike some other employment authorization categories, DACA renewals do not provide an automatic extension of work authorization once your current Employment Authorization Document expires.
Can I travel while my renewal is pending?
International travel should never be undertaken without first consulting an experienced immigration attorney. Whether travel is possible depends on your individual circumstances and whether you have valid Advance Parole authorization.
Can USCIS deny a renewal simply because it is taking longer?
No. A delayed case does not necessarily indicate that your renewal will be denied. Processing delays can occur for many administrative reasons.
Can someone apply for DACA for the first time?
Currently, USCIS continues to accept first-time DACA requests but is generally prohibited from granting them because of ongoing federal court orders. Renewal applications, however, continue to be processed.
We Can Help With Your DACA Renewal
For many Dreamers, DACA provides the ability to work legally, support their families, and continue building their futures in the United States. Delays in renewal processing can create significant uncertainty, especially when employment authorization is about to expire.
If your DACA renewal has been delayed, your work permit is nearing expiration, or you have questions about your eligibility, the Law Office of Dahlia Castillo, PLLC can help you understand your options.
We proudly represent clients throughout Fayetteville, Cumberland County, Harnett County, Wake County, Fort Liberty, Fort Bragg, Hoke County, Robeson County, Lumber Bridge, Smithfield, St. Pauls, Lumberton, Spring Lake, Fuquay-Varina, Holly Springs, Sanford, Lillington, and communities across North Carolina. Our office provides bilingual legal services in English and Spanish, and we are committed to helping immigrants navigate the ever-changing U.S. immigration system.
Disclaimer
The information provided in this blog is for educational and informational purposes only and is not legal advice. Reading this blog or using this website does not create an attorney-client relationship with the Law Office of Dahlia Castillo, PLLC. Every legal matter is unique, and laws may change. You should consult a qualified attorney regarding your specific legal situation before taking any action based on the information provided.
