What should DACA recipients do now?

This is general information, not legal advice. If this feels like a lot, start with step 1. That one matters most.

1. Renew on time

USCIS is still accepting and approving renewals. File 120 to 150 days before your DACA ends. USCIS will accept a renewal sent earlier, but it won't decide it faster, and your new period may overlap with the time you have left (DACA FAQ Q53). Ask your clinic whether filing a little earlier makes sense for you.

Don't wait for the last month. Members of Congress reported in June 2026 that the median wait had grown to 70 days. CBS News reported on October 8, 2026 that USCIS said it decided 80 percent of renewals within seven months, so some people wait much longer. DACA work permits do not get an automatic extension while a renewal is pending. If your card expires first, you must stop working until the new one comes.

If your DACA already ended, you can still renew within one year. After a year, you must file as a first time request, and USCIS is not deciding those now. Don't let it slip.

How: How do I fill out the DACA application forms?

2. Carry your work permit

Since June 29, 2026, a federal rule requires noncitizens 18 and older to carry proof of registration. Your DACA work permit counts today. Not carrying proof is a crime that can bring a fine of up to $5,000, up to 30 days in jail, or both. DHS asked for comments on possibly taking work permits off that list, so check back with us.

Know your rights if you are stopped. See Your rights with DACA and If immigration agents come.

3. Think hard before any trip

Since August 13, 2026, leaving on advance parole can trigger the 3 or 10 year bar for people with more than 180 days of past unlawful presence. USCIS posted the alert on its Form I-131 page. Never leave without advance parole, and don't leave even with it until a lawyer reviews your history. Budget for the cost too: $580 online or $630 on paper for advance parole, plus a $1,050 parole fee that CBP collects when you come back. Is it safe to travel on DACA advance parole?

4. Get screened for a stronger path

DACA does not lead to a green card on its own. But many Dreamers qualify for something more through family, a job, or protections for survivors and young people. A free screening can tell you. See Paths to a green card.

5. Keep your record clean

A felony, a significant misdemeanor such as DUI or domestic violence, or three or more other misdemeanors can cost you your DACA. If you are arrested, call an immigration lawyer before you agree to any plea.

Never claim to be a U.S. citizen. Never vote unless the law allows you. Both can bar you from a green card later.

6. Keep your papers and address up to date

• Report every move to USCIS within 10 days. The Post Office does not tell USCIS.
• Keep copies of every form you send and every notice you get, in one folder.
• File taxes if you earn enough to need to file.
• Men ages 18 through 25 must register with Selective Service.

7. Make a family plan

Write down who will care for your children, who can reach your lawyer, and where your important papers are. See Make a family preparedness plan.

8. Watch out for scams

No one can get you a faster DACA for a fee. USCIS charges nothing to ask for a faster case. Only a lawyer or a DOJ accredited representative may give you immigration advice. See Warning signs of an immigration scam.

9. Use what you qualify for in California

• Health care. Adults with DACA can still newly enroll in full scope Medi-Cal (DHCS). From January 1, 2027, your care moves to Fee for Service and you use your Medi-Cal BIC card, not a health plan card. From July 1, 2027, adults 19 to 59 face a monthly premium. The amount is not set yet. State law says it will be $30 to $50 a month per person, and the governor will set the exact amount in May 2027 (LAO, checked October 23, 2026). See Medi-Cal for adults in 2026. More: Medi-Cal changes in 2027.
• College. In state tuition and the CA Dream Act are still in effect while a federal lawsuit against them (United States v. Newsom) waits for a ruling. The 2027 to 2028 CA Dream Act deadline is March 2, 2027, or September 2, 2027 for community college. See Paying for college in California.

Is there a list I can print?

Where can I get free help?

Contact them to confirm hours, languages and openings. Being listed here is not a referral or a promise of service.

• Community Legal Services in East Palo Alto (for low income San Mateo and Santa Clara county residents): (650) 326-6440
• Immigration Institute of the Bay Area, Redwood City office: (650) 587-1558 to book a free first consultation (appointments only, no drop ins).
• Catholic Charities of San Mateo County (for San Mateo County residents): (650) 295-2160
• For Santa Clara County residents: Office of Immigrant Relations partners
• Anywhere in California: the state's map of free immigration legal services, or call (916) 651-8017.

Related questions

• What is the latest news on DACA?
• Can I get help paying my DACA renewal fee?
• Will traveling on advance parole hurt my green card chances?

Full guide: What to do now if you have DACA: a checklist

You have already done hard things to get here. Take the next step, and keep going. Do not lose hope.