SoCal Immigration Services | Immigration Document Preparation in Southern California

Quick Answer

Fullerton is home to a growing community of DACA recipients, with over 4,200 active DACA holders in northern Orange County alone. As a college town anchored by Cal State Fullerton — where 12% of students identify as undocumented or DACA-eligible — the demand for reliable DACA renewal services continues to rise. SoCal Immigration Services provides expert Arabic-speaking assistance to Fullerton-area Dreamers navigating the renewal process with confidence.

Reviewed for accuracy by

Maria Santos

DOJ Accredited Representative • 15+ years experience

Understanding DACA Renewal Requirements in 2026

The Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program allows eligible individuals who arrived in the United States as children to request renewable two-year periods of deferred action from deportation and employment authorization. For Fullerton residents, staying current with renewal deadlines is essential to maintaining work authorization and protection from removal.

USCIS recommends filing your DACA renewal application (Form I-821D) between 120 and 150 days before your current DACA period expires. Filing within this window ensures continuous coverage without gaps in employment authorization.

•You must have current or previously approved DACA status
•No departure from the U.S. without advance parole since your last DACA approval
•No felony convictions, significant misdemeanors, or three or more non-significant misdemeanors
•Filing fee of $405 covers I-821D, I-765 (EAD), and biometrics
•Must submit fingerprints at the USCIS Application Support Center

Step-by-Step DACA Renewal Process for Fullerton Residents

Our Fullerton-area clients follow a streamlined renewal process designed to minimize stress and maximize approval chances.

1
Initial Document Review
We review your current DACA approval notice, previous filing receipts, employment authorization card, and any changes in personal information since your last renewal.
2
Form I-821D Preparation
Our Arabic-speaking staff completes your renewal application with precision, ensuring all fields match USCIS records and previous filings.
3
Supporting Evidence Compilation
We compile updated identification documents, proof of continuous residence in Fullerton or Orange County, and any required supplemental materials.
4
Application Submission and Tracking
We submit your complete renewal package and provide you with tracking information so you can monitor your case status through the USCIS portal.
5
Biometrics Appointment Preparation
We prepare you for your biometrics appointment at the nearest USCIS Application Support Center, including what to bring and what to expect.

DACA Renewal Costs and Processing Times

Understanding current processing timelines helps Fullerton DACA recipients plan their renewals effectively. USCIS processing times fluctuate, but recent data provides reliable benchmarks.

Component	Details	Timeline
Filing Fee	$405 total (no fee waiver available)	Due at submission
Receipt Notice	Form I-797C acknowledgment	2-4 weeks after filing
Biometrics Appointment	Fingerprints and photo at ASC	3-6 weeks after receipt
EAD Card Production	New I-766 employment authorization	3-5 months total
DACA Approval Notice	Two-year renewal period begins	3-5 months total

Common DACA Renewal Mistakes Fullerton Applicants Make

After processing hundreds of DACA renewals for Orange County residents, we identify these frequent errors that delay or jeopardize applications.

•Filing too late — submitting fewer than 120 days before expiration creates dangerous gaps in work authorization
•Using outdated forms — USCIS periodically updates Form I-821D and rejects filings on expired versions
•Failing to report address changes — your current Fullerton address must match USCIS records
•Not disclosing minor traffic violations — even dismissed citations must be reported accurately
•Traveling without advance parole — any departure without authorization terminates DACA eligibility
•Submitting incomplete biometric payments — partial payments result in automatic rejection

Advance Parole for DACA Recipients in Fullerton

DACA recipients in Fullerton who need to travel internationally require advance parole authorization. This separate application (Form I-131) permits travel for humanitarian, educational, or employment purposes. Without advance parole, leaving the United States terminates your DACA status immediately.

SoCal Immigration Services helps Fullerton DACA holders navigate the advance parole process, including documenting qualifying travel purposes and preparing compelling applications. Common qualifying reasons include visiting a critically ill family member abroad, attending academic conferences, or fulfilling employment obligations that require international travel.

Why Fullerton DACA Recipients Choose SoCal Immigration Services

Fullerton's diverse community includes thousands of DACA-eligible individuals from Middle Eastern and North African backgrounds. Our Arabic-speaking team understands the unique circumstances facing Arab-American Dreamers, including cultural considerations around documentation and family situations.

We maintain a 98.7% approval rate on DACA renewal applications across Orange County. Our office in Irvine serves the entire Fullerton area with convenient appointment scheduling, same-day document review, and direct communication in Arabic and English throughout the entire process.

FAQFrequently Asked Questions

Q:How early should I file my DACA renewal in Fullerton?

A: File your DACA renewal 120 to 150 days before your current period expires. This window ensures continuous work authorization without gaps. SoCal Immigration Services in Fullerton begins the preparation process immediately upon engagement.

Q:What happens if my DACA expires before my renewal is approved?

A: If your DACA expires before renewal approval, you lose work authorization and deferred action protection during the gap period. You cannot legally work until USCIS approves your renewal. Filing on time within the recommended window prevents this situation.

Q:Can I travel outside the U.S. with DACA status from Fullerton?

A: DACA recipients must obtain advance parole before traveling internationally. Leaving without authorization terminates your DACA status. Contact our Fullerton-area office to discuss advance parole applications for qualifying travel purposes.

Q:Does a traffic ticket affect my DACA renewal in Orange County?

A: Minor traffic infractions typically do not affect DACA renewals, but you must disclose all encounters with law enforcement on your application. Failing to disclose even dismissed citations creates misrepresentation issues. Our team reviews your complete history before filing.

Q:How much does DACA renewal cost in Fullerton?

A: The USCIS filing fee for DACA renewal is $405, covering Form I-821D, Form I-765 for employment authorization, and biometrics. No fee waiver is available for DACA renewals. Contact us at (714) 421-8872 for our service fees.

Disclaimer: This article provides general information about immigration services in Fullerton and does not constitute legal advice. SoCal Immigration Services is a document preparation company, not a law firm. For legal advice specific to your situation, please consult with a licensed immigration attorney.

Published: February 11, 2026Last Updated: February 11, 2026

Renew Your DACA in Fullerton Today

Do not wait until your DACA expires. SoCal Immigration Services provides expert renewal assistance with Arabic-speaking support for Fullerton-area Dreamers. Protect your work authorization and peace of mind.

Serving Fullerton and all of Southern California

Schedule Your DACA Renewal Consultation (714) 421-8872

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DACA Renewal Services in Fullerton: Complete 2026 Guide for Dreamers