The Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program has provided temporary relief from deportation and work authorization to hundreds of thousands of young immigrants who arrived in the United States as children. While DACA does not provide a pathway to citizenship or permanent residency, it offers recipients the chance to live and work legally in the U.S. for renewable periods of two years.
Understanding the importance of maintaining an active DACA status is essential for recipients. DACA protections and work authorization must be renewed regularly, and applicants must remain informed about the status of their initial applications, renewal requests, or requests for evidence. In this article, we will explore in detail the different ways to check your DACA status and ensure your protection is not jeopardized by expired documents or missed notices.
Why It Is Important to Monitor Your DACA Status
Your DACA status is directly tied to your legal ability to work and stay in the United States. Failure to renew on time or missing an important notice from U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) can lead to the expiration of your protection. Additionally, because immigration laws and policies may change depending on court rulings or presidential administrations, staying informed about your case is more important than ever.
Keeping track of your application’s progress also helps you respond quickly if USCIS requests additional documentation or if there are processing delays. In many cases, timely action can prevent disruptions in employment, travel, and overall legal standing.
How to Check Your DACA Status: A Step-by-Step Guide
There are several ways to check your DACA status depending on the stage of your application—whether it’s pending, approved, or under review. These include online tracking tools, customer service phone lines, paper notifications, and more.
1. USCIS Online Case Status Tool
The most direct and convenient method is the USCIS Case Status Online tool. Every applicant receives a unique 13-character receipt number after submitting their DACA application (Form I-821D). This number begins with three letters, such as “WAC,” “EAC,” or “LIN,” followed by ten numbers.
To use this service:
- Visit the official USCIS website linked above.
- Enter your 13-character receipt number exactly as it appears (without dashes).
- Click “Check Status.”
You will then see the most recent updates related to your case, including when it was received, when fingerprints were taken, and whether any action has been taken. Be sure to check this regularly during the processing period.
2. USCIS MyAccount Portal
For a more robust experience, create a free account through the USCIS MyAccount portal. Once registered, you can:
- Track multiple applications at once.
- Receive case status updates via email and text.
- Respond to Requests for Evidence (RFEs) online.
- Upload documents directly.
This platform is especially useful for applicants who prefer digital communication and want quick access to all aspects of their case in one place.
3. USCIS Case Inquiry Tools
If your DACA application is outside the normal processing time, or you believe an error has occurred, you can file a case inquiry through the USCIS e-Request system. This tool allows you to:
- Submit inquiries about delays or errors.
- Check for missing correspondence.
- Notify USCIS of address changes or document issues.
This is not the same as checking your status but is helpful when standard tracking does not provide adequate answers.
4. Receipt Notices and Official Mail
When USCIS receives your initial DACA application or renewal, they send a Form I-797C Notice of Action. This paper notice contains your receipt number and key information about your case. Always keep these documents in a safe place and refer to them when tracking your case online.
Also watch for official mail from USCIS regarding biometrics appointments, Requests for Evidence (RFE), or decisions. Ignoring or misplacing these can result in your application being denied or delayed.
5. Contacting USCIS Directly
If you are unable to get answers online, you can contact the USCIS Contact Center at 1-800-375-5283. The interactive voice response (IVR) system may be able to provide basic status updates using your receipt number.
If necessary, you can also request to speak to a Tier 2 immigration officer. These representatives are trained to handle more complex questions or issues regarding your case. Wait times may be long, so call early in the day and be patient.
6. InfoPass Appointments
In some cases, you may schedule an in-person appointment with a USCIS officer at your local field office using the InfoPass system. These are usually reserved for urgent matters that cannot be resolved by phone or online.
Bring all relevant documents with you, including your receipt number, identification, and a detailed explanation of your concern.
Common DACA Case Status Messages and What They Mean
Understanding the language used in your case status update is crucial. Here are some common messages and their meanings:
“Case Was Received”
This means USCIS has officially received your DACA application. The receipt notice will be mailed shortly, and initial processing begins.
“Biometrics Appointment Was Scheduled”
You are required to appear at an Application Support Center (ASC) for fingerprinting and photograph collection. This is a routine step.
“Request for Evidence Was Sent”
USCIS requires more information or documentation before proceeding. The notice will specify what is needed and the deadline to respond.
“Case Was Approved”
Your application has been approved. USCIS will mail your new work authorization card (EAD) and approval notice.
“Card Was Mailed To Me”
Your Employment Authorization Document (EAD) has been shipped. You should receive it within 10 business days.
“Case Was Denied”
Your application was not approved. The mailed notice will provide reasons and possible next steps.
How to Prepare for DACA Renewal
You can apply for renewal up to 150 days (five months) before your current DACA expires. USCIS recommends submitting your renewal no later than 120 days in advance to avoid gaps in coverage.
Check your current expiration date, collect the necessary forms (I-821D, I-765, and I-765WS), and submit them with the required fee. You can track this renewal process using the same tools mentioned above.
What to Do If You Have Trouble Accessing Your Status
If you lost your receipt number or never received a notice, take the following steps:
- Check your bank statements to see if your application fee was processed. This can confirm receipt.
- Contact the USCIS Contact Center to request a duplicate notice.
- Use your USCIS online account, if created during filing, to retrieve your case information.
It is vital to update your address promptly to avoid missing mail. Use the USCIS Change of Address tool to ensure you continue receiving all notifications.
Can an Immigration Attorney Help Check My Status?
Yes, if you are working with an accredited immigration attorney or representative, they can assist in tracking your DACA application, communicating with USCIS, and even resolving problems on your behalf. They often have access to additional tools and can interpret case status language more precisely.
If your DACA has been denied or delayed unusually long, consulting with a legal professional may be your best course of action.
Additional Resources for DACA Recipients
- USCIS DACA Form I-821D Overview
- United We Dream – DACA Advocacy
- Immigrant Legal Resource Center DACA Page
- National Immigration Project
Conclusion
Maintaining your DACA status is not only essential for your ability to live and work in the U.S., but it also ensures you remain protected under existing immigration policies. Whether you are submitting an initial application or renewing, staying informed about your case status through USCIS tools, official notices, or legal support is critical.
By understanding the various ways to check your DACA status—online, by mail, by phone, or in person—you can stay ahead of deadlines and respond quickly to any issues that arise. Don’t let a missed notice or expired status affect your future. Use the resources available, and when in doubt, consult a legal expert to help navigate your case with confidence.
Related topics:
- How Can I Work for Immigration? A Comprehensive Guide
- Where Can I Travel with Indefinite Leave to Remain?
- Is It Illegal to Provide Housing to Illegal Immigrants?
