I cannot afford the DACA fee
Loans, grants and free filing help.
4 steps
Step 1 of 4: Know the real cost
Check the current fee before you look for help.
Step 2 of 4: Look for money help
Loans and grants exist. See which ones fit you.
- Help with the DACA feeYes. If you live in California, you can get a 0% interest loan for the $555 online fee from Mission Asset Fund. There is no USCIS fee waiver for DACA, and the old California fee program ended in 2023, so plan early and ask local clinics about any help they have this year.Quick answer
- DACA Fee HelpThe fee can feel out of reach. It doesn't have to stop you. Here is what DACA and citizenship cost today, who can lend or give you the money, how to save for it, and how to keep it safe from scammers.Guide
- Bay Area Dreamer grantAdults with DACA, or Dreamers who came to the U.S. young, who have ties to one of 10 Bay Area counties and are working with a lawyer or nonprofit toward lawful status. The grant gives up to $5,000 and you don't pay it back.Quick answer
- My fee planPrint it and fill it in by handChecklist
Step 3 of 4: Get free help filing
Nonprofits can help you file for free or at low cost.
- Free help filing DACACalifornia pays nonprofits across the state to help with DACA for free or at low cost. Find one on the state map, or use the Bay Area list below. Get help only from a licensed lawyer or a DOJ accredited representative at a recognized nonprofit. Never from a notario.Quick answer
- What to say when you call a clinicPrint it and fill it in by handChecklist
Step 4 of 4: Get help from a person
You do not have to do this alone. Ask about cost, languages and current openings before you share documents.
- Mission Asset FundInformation about immigration programs and financing for some application fees.Organization
- California state-funded immigration legal servicesThe California Department of Social Services funds nonprofit organizations to give free immigration legal services to people who live or have lived in California. Services include DACA, naturalization, other immigration applications, removal defense and help for unaccompanied minors.Organization
This page puts DNLH guides in a useful order. It is general information, not legal advice. Each guide shows its sources and the date its facts were checked.
Not quite your situation?
All situations- My DACA expires in the next few monthsRenew on time and keep working while you wait.6 steps
- My DACA already expired, or my renewal is lateFile now, push a slow case and protect your income.5 steps
- I have never had DACAWhat a first request means right now, and other options to ask about.5 steps
- I want to travel outside the U.S. with DACAUnderstand the risk, get legal advice, then apply.5 steps