DACA Renewal in Nebraska: What You Need to Know in 2025

If you’re a DACA recipient living in Nebraska, keeping your status current is essential. DACA protections—including work authorization and protection from deportation—are still available to those who renew on time. And while the legal future of the program remains uncertain, renewals are active and fully processable in 2025.

Here’s what you need to know to protect your status this year, from updated filing options to common pitfalls and Nebraska-specific support.

DACA Renewals Are Still Being Accepted

As of 2025, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) continues to accept and process DACA renewal applications nationwide. Initial applications—those for individuals who have never received DACA—can still be filed but are not being processed due to ongoing federal litigation. That means if your DACA expired more than a year ago, your request will be treated as an initial application and placed on hold.

If your DACA expired less than one year ago, you are eligible to file a standard renewal. For those with active DACA, it’s critical to file early to avoid any lapse in protection or work authorization.

When to File Your DACA Renewal

USCIS recommends renewing your DACA 120 to 150 days (4 to 5 months) before the expiration date on your work permit. However, due to processing delays—especially at the Nebraska Service Center—many immigration attorneys suggest filing even earlier, sometimes as early as 6 months out, to be safe.

Keep in mind that filing too early doesn’t mean your renewal will be processed sooner. USCIS generally won’t approve your case until closer to your current expiration date. But submitting your application early can give you more time to respond to any delays or Requests for Evidence (RFEs).

How to Renew DACA in 2025: Filing Options and Forms

DACA renewals can now be submitted online through a USCIS account or by mail. Regardless of how you file, you’ll need to include the following forms:

• Form I-821D – Consideration of Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals

• Form I-765 – Application for Employment Authorization

• Form I-765WS – Worksheet explaining your economic need (uploaded or mailed as a supporting document)

Optional: You can also submit Form G-1145 to receive a text or email confirmation when your application is accepted (if filing by mail).

The total filing fee is $495, and fee waivers are generally not available. There are limited exceptions for extreme hardship, but these are rarely granted.

You may also want to include a simple cover letter listing your forms and supporting documents, especially if filing by mail.

What Supporting Documents to Include

For most renewal cases, you do not need to resubmit school records or personal declarations. However, the following documents are typically required:

• A copy of your most recent DACA approval notice

• A copy of your current or most recent Employment Authorization Document (EAD)

• Updated documents if your name, address, or other identifying information has changed

• Proof of continued U.S. residence (if requested—this is not always required)

If USCIS needs more documentation, they will issue a Request for Evidence (RFE). Be sure to respond fully and promptly.

What Happens After Filing

Once your renewal is submitted, here’s what to expect:

• Receipt Notice (Form I-797C): Confirms that USCIS has received your application

• Biometrics Appointment: Some applicants may be scheduled for new fingerprints and photos. Others may have previous biometrics reused.

• RFE (Request for Evidence): If issued, this must be responded to quickly and completely to avoid delay or denial.

You can track the status of your case through your USCIS online account, and you can create one even if you file by mail.

Common DACA Renewal Mistakes to Avoid

Filing early, being consistent, and following instructions carefully can prevent unnecessary setbacks. Here are common missteps:

• Waiting too long to renew—submit your renewal at least 120 days in advance to avoid a lapse.

• Inconsistent information—use the same identifying details (name, address, A-number) as your previous applications.

• Ignoring status updates—track your case online and sign up for alerts.

• Traveling outside the U.S.—never leave the country without approved advance parole, or you may lose your DACA status.

• Letting delays go unresolved—if your case is delayed more than 105 days, you can file a service request or ask your congressional representative for assistance.

Local Help for DACA Renewals in Nebraska

Many DACA recipients in Nebraska choose to work with an immigration attorney to avoid errors and delays. At Zachary W. Anderson Law, we help DACA recipients across the state with:

• Online or mail-in application assistance

• Help gathering documents and understanding USCIS instructions

• Guidance on extreme hardship fee exemption requests

• Responses to Requests for Evidence (RFEs)

We understand the stress of navigating immigration paperwork—especially when your ability to work and stay in the U.S. depends on it. Our goal is to make the process as clear and smooth as possible, so you can renew with confidence.

Final Thoughts

DACA still offers real protection for Nebraska residents—but only if you renew on time and follow the steps carefully. With so much riding on your ability to work, live, and support your family, staying current on your DACA status is not something to leave to chance.

If your expiration date is coming up, now is the time to act. And if you want help making sure everything is done right, I’m here to support you. Contact me at 402-259-0059 or zach@zandersonlaw.com.