My DACA Expired — What Happens and What Can I Do?
If your DACA expired without a timely renewal, you lose work authorization and your deferred action protection lapses. The situation is serious but not hopeless. What you can do depends on how long your DACA has been expired and your current circumstances.
Reviewed by Gracie Johnson, Certified Specialist in Immigration and Nationality Law, State Bar of California, California State Bar #276536
Last reviewed: July 2, 2026
When DACA expires without a timely renewal, your work authorization (EAD) expires with it. Your employer is required to terminate your work authorization. You no longer have deferred action protection, which means immigration enforcement is no longer deferred for you specifically.
As of 2026, USCIS continues to accept renewal applications for current and former DACA recipients under court orders. If your DACA has lapsed, you may still be able to file a late renewal, but your application will not include the automatic 180-day extension of work authorization that timely filers receive. You will need to wait for full USCIS approval before your work authorization is reinstated.
Filing a late renewal does not guarantee approval. USCIS will adjudicate your application on the merits, including your eligibility and any disqualifying criminal history that may have occurred since your last grant. If there is anything in your background that could affect eligibility, consult an attorney before filing.
Do not wait to act. Each day without DACA increases your exposure. If your DACA has lapsed, call Gracie Johnson Law at (310) 554-4630 immediately for a consultation on your specific options.
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Also available in Spanish: Mi DACA Venció — ¿Qué Pasa y Qué Puedo Hacer?