DACA Updates 2026: Essential Renewal Guide for Dreamers in

The landscape of immigration law is constantly shifting, and for beneficiaries of the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program, staying informed is not just helpful—it’s critical. At Imigrar, an immigration law firm based in Orlando, Florida, we understand the profound impact these changes have on individuals and families. Our mission is to "Keep Families Together," and that commitment extends to providing clear, actionable information for Dreamers across Florida and the nation.

This comprehensive guide is designed to cut through the complexity, offering you the latest DACA updates as of February 17, 2026, and a detailed roadmap for successful renewal.

The reporting that sparked this guide

Our commitment to keeping you informed is driven by the dynamic nature of immigration policy. Recent reports from USCIS and ongoing discussions in the legal sphere highlight the critical need for timely and accurate information regarding the DACA program. While the legal challenges persist, USCIS continues to accept and process DACA renewal requests. This ongoing process, coupled with the ever-present possibility of new legal rulings or legislative efforts, makes consistent updates indispensable for Dreamers and their families.

DACA Program Updates and Renewal Information (USCIS)

What This News Means for Immigrants in Orlando and Across Florida

For hundreds of thousands of young people, DACA represents a lifeline – the ability to work legally, pursue education, and live without constant fear of deportation. In Florida, particularly in vibrant communities like Orlando, the DACA program has enabled countless individuals to contribute to our economy and society. Understanding the current status and renewal process is paramount.

Why this news is showing up now

The DACA program has been a subject of intense legal and political debate since its inception in 2012. The news surrounding DACA is consistently "showing up" because the program's long-term future remains uncertain due to ongoing litigation. As of February 17, 2026, the program continues to operate under an injunction from the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Texas. This injunction prevents USCIS from approving *new* DACA applications but allows them to continue accepting and processing *renewal* requests.

Each administrative action, court filing, or legislative proposal generates significant attention because it could fundamentally alter the program. Dreamers and their advocates are vigilant, constantly monitoring these developments. The current focus remains on ensuring that eligible individuals continue to renew their deferred action and employment authorization documents (EADs) without interruption, while also advocating for a permanent legislative solution.

How it can affect Florida residents

Florida is home to one of the largest populations of DACA recipients in the United States. According to various reports, tens of thousands of DACA-eligible individuals reside in the Sunshine State, with a significant concentration in Central Florida, including Orlando, Tampa, and along the I-4 corridor. For these individuals, the continuous ability to renew DACA means:

• Continued Employment: DACA allows recipients to obtain an Employment Authorization Document (EAD), enabling them to work legally and contribute to Florida's economy. This is crucial for many families' financial stability in Orange County and beyond.
• Educational Opportunities: DACA recipients in Florida can pursue higher education without the immediate threat of deportation, and in some cases, may qualify for in-state tuition at public universities and colleges, depending on state policy.
• Driver's Licenses: With a valid EAD and DACA status, recipients can obtain a Florida driver's license, essential for daily life, commuting to work, and navigating the extensive roadways around Orlando.
• Protection from Deportation: Deferred action provides a temporary reprieve from removal proceedings, offering a sense of security and stability for families who have long called Florida home.
• Community Integration: DACA recipients are deeply integrated into Florida's communities, contributing to its cultural fabric and economic vitality. The stability offered by DACA renewals allows them to continue building lives and futures here.

The legal uncertainties, however, create immense stress. The possibility of future adverse rulings means that while renewals are currently permitted, the program could face further restrictions or termination. This underscores the importance of prompt renewal and seeking qualified legal advice to navigate potential changes. For Central Florida residents, staying informed and prepared is key.

What DACA Is (and Why It Matters)

The Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program has been a cornerstone of immigration policy for over a decade, impacting the lives of hundreds of thousands of young people across the United States. Understanding its core principles is essential for anyone affected by it.

A plain-English definition

DACA, or Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals, is an immigration policy that allows certain undocumented immigrants who entered the United States as children to receive a renewable two-year period of deferred action from deportation and to be eligible for a work permit (Employment Authorization Document or EAD). Deferred action means that the government agrees not to pursue deportation against an individual for a specific period. It is important to understand that DACA is not a pathway to citizenship or legal permanent residency; it is a temporary, discretionary relief measure. It provides a measure of stability and allows recipients, often called "Dreamers," to live and work legally in the U.S. without the immediate fear of removal.

Key terms you need to know

Navigating immigration processes requires understanding specific terminology. Here are some key terms related to DACA:

• Deferred Action: A discretionary determination by the U.S. government to defer removal action against an individual. It does not confer lawful status but rather a promise not to deport for a specified period.
• Dreamer: A colloquial term referring to young undocumented immigrants who were brought to the U.S. as children, often associated with the proposed "DREAM Act" legislation. DACA recipients are often referred to as Dreamers.
• Employment Authorization Document (EAD): Also known as a work permit, this card allows non-citizens to work legally in the United States. DACA recipients are eligible to apply for an EAD, typically valid for two years, coinciding with their deferred action period.
• USCIS (U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services): The government agency responsible for administering the country's lawful immigration system, including processing DACA applications and renewals. USCIS official website.
• ICE (U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement): The federal agency responsible for enforcing immigration laws within the U.S., including deportations. Deferred action provides protection from ICE removal actions.
• Removal Proceedings: Formal legal proceedings initiated by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to determine if an individual should be deported from the United States. DACA provides protection from these proceedings.
• Continuous Residence: A DACA eligibility requirement meaning the applicant has maintained their residence in the United States for a specified period leading up to their application. Brief, casual, and innocent absences are generally permitted, but longer or unauthorized departures can break continuous residence.
• Significant Misdemeanor/Felony: DACA eligibility requires applicants to not have been convicted of a felony, a significant misdemeanor, or three or more other misdemeanors. The definitions are specific and crucial to understand.
• Advance Parole: A document issued by USCIS that allows certain non-citizens, including DACA recipients (under specific circumstances), to travel outside the United States and re-enter without jeopardizing their deferred action status. Warning: Advance Parole is currently very restricted for DACA recipients.

Current Immigration Law: The Foundation

DACA operates within a complex legal framework. It is crucial to understand that DACA is a policy, not a law passed by Congress. It was established by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) through executive action in 2012. Its legal standing has been challenged repeatedly, leading to its current status.

As of February 17, 2026, DACA continues to be governed by a court order from the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Texas. This order, stemming from the case of *Texas v. United States*, found the original DACA memorandum unlawful. However, the court's injunction specifically allows USCIS to continue accepting and processing DACA *renewal* requests. USCIS is prohibited from approving *new* initial DACA requests filed after July 16, 2021.

The Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals has affirmed the district court's ruling, maintaining that while DACA is unlawful, the current injunction allowing renewals should remain in place pending further review. This means that for now, Dreamers whose DACA status is expiring can and should apply for renewal.

Federal requirements

To be eligible for DACA renewal, you must meet the following federal requirements, which are largely consistent with the initial DACA criteria:

• You must have received DACA previously and your DACA status must not have been terminated.
• You must have been under the age of 31 as of June 15, 2012.
• You must have come to the United States before reaching your 16th birthday.
• You must have continuously resided in the United States since June 15, 2007, up to the present time.
• You must have been physically present in the United States on June 15, 2012, and at the time of making your request for deferred action with USCIS.
• You must have had no lawful status on June 15, 2012.
• You must be currently in school, have graduated or obtained a certificate of completion from high school, have obtained a general education development (GED) certificate, or be an honorably discharged veteran of the Coast Guard or Armed Forces of the United States.
• You must not have been convicted of a felony, a significant misdemeanor, or three or more other misdemeanors, and not pose a threat to national security or public safety.

These requirements are outlined by USCIS, the agency responsible for processing your application. Always refer to the official USCIS website for the most up-to-date information and forms. USCIS official website.

The primary forms you will need for DACA renewal are:

• Form I-821D, Consideration of Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals
• Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization
• Form I-765WS, Worksheet

These forms are available for free download on the USCIS Forms page.

Florida-specific considerations

While DACA is a federal program, its impacts can vary at the state level. For DACA recipients in Florida, there are a few considerations:

• Driver's Licenses: DACA recipients with a valid EAD and DACA status are generally eligible to obtain a Florida driver's license or state identification card through the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV). This is a critical benefit for mobility, especially in a car-dependent state like Florida, including commuting along the I-4 corridor.
• In-State Tuition: Florida law has provisions that allow certain undocumented students, including some DACA recipients, to qualify for in-state tuition at public colleges and universities. This can significantly reduce the cost of higher education for Dreamers residing in Orlando, Orange County, and across the state. It's important to check with individual institutions for their specific requirements.
• Professional Licenses: The ability to obtain professional licenses (e.g., nursing, teaching, real estate) can vary by state and profession. DACA recipients often face challenges, but advocacy efforts continue to open doors. Always verify specific requirements with the relevant Florida state licensing boards.
• Local Resources: Communities like Orlando have various non-profit organizations and legal aid groups that offer support and resources specifically for immigrants and DACA recipients. These local networks can be invaluable for finding assistance, especially for those navigating the process in Central Florida.

How to Renew Your DACA: A Complete Step-by-Step Guide

Renewing your DACA is a critical process that requires careful attention to detail and adherence to deadlines. While the process may seem daunting, breaking it down into manageable steps can make it much clearer. Reminder: USCIS recommends filing your DACA renewal request between 120 to 150 days before your current DACA and EAD expire. Filing too early or too late can lead to complications.

1) Assess Eligibility and Gather Documents

Before you begin filling out forms, confirm your continued eligibility and start compiling all necessary documents. This proactive approach will save you time and stress later.

• Confirm Eligibility: Review the federal requirements listed above to ensure you still meet all criteria. Pay close attention to any changes in your criminal history or continuous residence since your last application.
• Identify Expiration Dates: Locate your current EAD card and your DACA approval notice. Note the expiration dates. This will dictate your ideal filing window.
• Required Documents Checklist:
  • Your previous DACA approval notices (Form I-797).
  • Your current Employment Authorization Document (EAD).
  • Proof of identity (e.g., passport, birth certificate, national identity card from your country of origin).
  • Proof of continuous residence since your last DACA approval (e.g., utility bills, bank statements, school transcripts, employment records, medical records). While not always explicitly requested for renewals, having them ready is prudent, especially if there have been significant gaps or changes.
  • Recent passport-style photos (2 identical, taken within 30 days of filing).
  • Any documentation related to new criminal arrests, charges, or convictions since your last DACA approval (even if charges were dropped or expunged, full disclosure is vital).

2) Complete Forms I-821D, I-765, and I-765WS

These are the core forms for your DACA renewal. Accuracy is paramount. Use the latest versions of the forms available on the USCIS Forms website.

• Form I-821D, Consideration of Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals:
  • Fill out every section completely and accurately. If a question does not apply, write "N/A" (not applicable) or "None."
  • Ensure your name, address (especially if you've moved within Orlando or Florida), and other personal details match your previous applications and identification documents.
  • For renewal, primarily focus on updating information that has changed since your last application.
  • Sign and date the form. An unsigned form will be rejected.
• Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization:
  • This form requests your work permit. In question 27, for "Eligibility Category," enter (c)(33).
  • Again, ensure all personal information is consistent with your other forms and documents.
  • Sign and date the form.
• Form I-765WS, Worksheet:
  • This worksheet is required to demonstrate your economic necessity for employment authorization.
  • Provide details about your current income, expenses, assets, and resources. Be honest and thorough.
• Important: Do not leave any blank spaces. If a question doesn’t apply, write "N/A." If the answer is zero, write "None."

3) Prepare Supporting Evidence

While renewal applications generally require less extensive documentation than initial applications, you still need to include key supporting evidence.

• Copies of Previous DACA Approval and EAD: Include clear, legible photocopies of your most recent Form I-797 (DACA approval notice) and your expiring EAD card (front and back).
• Photographs: Attach two identical, color passport-style photos (2x2 inches) taken within 30 days of filing. Write your name and Alien Registration Number (A-Number) lightly in pencil on the back of each photo.
• Criminal History Documentation (if applicable): If you have had any arrests, charges, or convictions since your last DACA approval, you *must* provide certified court dispositions for *each* incident. Failure to disclose this can lead to denial and potentially severe immigration consequences. Consult with an attorney if you have any criminal history.
• Proof of Continuous Residence (if requested or if there's a gap): While not always mandatory for renewals, if USCIS sends a Request for Evidence (RFE) or if you have had significant periods of unemployment or other gaps in your documentary evidence, you might need to provide additional proof. Examples: school records, employment records, tax returns, medical records, utility bills, bank statements.

4) Calculate and Pay Fees

There are specific fees associated with DACA renewal, and they must be paid correctly to avoid rejection of your application.

• Fee Amount: As of February 17, 2026, the total fee for DACA renewal is $495. This includes the $410 fee for Form I-765 and the $85 biometrics services fee. Note: There is no fee for Form I-821D.
• Payment Method: You can pay by money order, personal check, cashier's check, or by credit card using Form G-1450, Authorization for Credit Card Transactions.
  • If paying by check or money order, make it payable to "U.S. Department of Homeland Security." Do not abbreviate.
  • Write your A-Number on the memo line of your check or money order.
  • Submit the payment for the full amount. Do not combine payments for multiple applications into one check unless specifically instructed by USCIS.
• Fee Waivers: Fee waivers are generally *not* available for DACA applications or renewals. In rare, extreme circumstances, you might be able to request an exemption, but these are very difficult to obtain and should only be pursued with legal counsel.

5) Mail Your Application Package

Once all forms are complete, signed, and all supporting documents and fees are prepared, you will mail your package to USCIS.

• Assemble Your Package:
  • Place your check or money order on top of the package, or Form G-1450 if paying by credit card.
  • Place Form I-821D on top, followed by Form I-765, then Form I-765WS.
  • Include your two passport-style photos in a small envelope stapled to the upper left corner of Form I-765, with your name and A-Number written on the envelope.
  • Organize supporting documents logically (e.g., EAD copy, approval notice copy, then any additional evidence).
  • Make a complete copy of your *entire* application package for your records before mailing. This is crucial for future reference and if anything is lost.
• Mailing Address: The USCIS mailing address depends on your state of residence. For Florida residents, you will generally mail your application to a USCIS Lockbox facility. Always confirm the current mailing address on the USCIS Direct Filing Addresses for Form I-821D page.
• Shipping Method: Send your application via certified mail with return receipt requested, or through a courier service (like FedEx or UPS) that provides tracking. This provides proof of mailing and delivery.

6) Attend Biometrics Appointment (if required)

After USCIS receives your application, they will send you a receipt notice (Form I-797C). Subsequently, you may receive an appointment notice (Form I-797C, Action Notice) for a biometrics services appointment at an Application Support Center (ASC).

• Purpose: At this appointment, your fingerprints, photograph, and signature will be collected. This data is used for background checks.
• What to Bring: Bring your appointment notice, a valid photo ID (like your current EAD or driver's license), and any other documents requested in the notice.
• Location: For Orlando residents, your biometrics appointment will likely be at the Orlando USCIS Application Support Center. Check your notice carefully for the exact location and time.
• Importance: Attending this appointment is mandatory. Failure to appear can lead to the denial of your application.

7) Monitor Your Case Status

Once your application is submitted, you can track its progress online.

• USCIS Case Status Online: Use the receipt number from your Form I-797C notice to check your case status on the USCIS Case Status Online tool.
• Processing Times: You can also check estimated processing times for Form I-821D and I-765 on the USCIS Processing Times page. Select "Form I-821D" and the service center processing DACA applications (currently the Nebraska Service Center or Potomac Service Center).
• Responding to RFEs: USCIS may send a Request for Evidence (RFE) if they need more information. Respond promptly and thoroughly to any RFEs.
• Approval/Denial: You will receive a written notice of USCIS's decision. If approved, you will receive a new DACA approval notice and your new EAD card by mail.

Practical Steps You Can Take Today for DACA Renewal

Being proactive is the best strategy for a smooth DACA renewal process. Here's an actionable checklist to help you get started today:

• 1. Mark Your Calendar: Note your current DACA and EAD expiration dates. Set a reminder to start preparing your renewal application 150 days before these dates. This allows ample time for gathering documents and unforeseen delays.
• 2. Gather Essential Documents: Start collecting copies of your previous DACA approval notices, your current EAD, and any documents proving continuous residence since your last approval (even if not strictly required, it's good to have them).
• 3. Review Your Criminal History: Honestly assess any arrests, charges, or convictions you may have had since your last DACA approval. Obtain certified court dispositions for *all* incidents, regardless of their outcome. This is a non-negotiable step.
• 4. Check Your Contact Information: Ensure your address on file with USCIS is current. If you've moved within Orlando, Central Florida, or anywhere else, submit a change of address online using Form AR-11.
• 5. Save for Fees: Begin setting aside the $495 fee for your DACA renewal. Having this amount ready will prevent delays.
• 6. Research USCIS Forms: Download the latest versions of Form I-821D, Form I-765, and Form I-765WS from the USCIS website. Familiarize yourself with them.
• 7. Seek Legal Advice: If you have *any* concerns about your eligibility, criminal history, or simply want professional guidance, contact an experienced immigration attorney. An initial consultation can clarify many doubts.

Document preparation guidance

When preparing your documents:

• Copies, Not Originals: Always send copies of supporting documents unless USCIS specifically requests originals. Keep your originals safe.
• Organize Clearly: Use cover letters, tabs, or separators to organize your application package. This helps USCIS officers process your application more efficiently.
• Legible: Ensure all copies are clear and easy to read.
• Translate Documents: If any supporting documents are not in English, you must include a complete English translation along with a certification from the translator stating they are competent to translate and that the translation is accurate.

Timeline expectations

While processing times can vary, here's a general timeline:

• Application Window: File between 120 and 150 days before your DACA/EAD expires.
• Receipt Notice: Expect to receive a receipt notice (Form I-797C) from USCIS within 2-4 weeks after filing.
• Biometrics Appointment: If required, an appointment notice will typically arrive 3-8 weeks after filing. The appointment itself usually occurs 2-4 weeks after the notice.
• Processing Time: DACA renewal processing times can range from 3 to 6 months, sometimes longer. You can check current estimates on the USCIS Processing Times page.
• Approval/EAD Delivery: Once approved, your new EAD card should arrive within 1-2 weeks.

Warning: Do not let your DACA expire before filing for renewal. If your DACA expires before you file, or while your application is pending, you will temporarily lose your deferred action status and work authorization. If your DACA expires more than one year before you file your renewal, USCIS may treat it as an initial request, which they are currently prohibited from approving.

How Imigrar Helps DACA Recipients in Orlando

At Imigrar, we are