DACA Immigration Lawyer

Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (or DACA) has helped protect certain undocumented immigrants who came to the United States as children and have only known this country as home. The program’s legal status has changed over time and is currently the focus of various legal battles. While DACA is not currently accepting new applications, current recipients of the program’s benefits can still renew their status and explore pathways to lawful residency.

If you are uncertain about your legal status or need guidance with a DACA renewal or obtaining advance parole DACA, working with an experienced DACA immigration lawyer can help you protect what you’ve built. Let’s talk. Call Lira Bravo Law, PLLC at 214-390-6294.

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What is DACA?

Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) is a federal immigration program that grants qualifying individuals deferred action. This means the removal actions against them are temporarily paused. The program also allows applicants to request work authorization. This program is limited in scope, including those who entered the United States as children and meet specific background requirements.

DACA can be a lifeline for qualifying individuals, but it does have limitations. Recipients must remember that the program does not grant lawful immigration status or provide a direct path to permanent residency or citizenship. It is also subject to legal and policy changes.

Recipients must renew every two years to continue protecting themselves from removal.

DACA Renewals: Who’s Eligible?

A DACA Immigration lawyer can help DACA recipients apply for renewal, but the DACA program is not currently processing new initial applications. Those who have never received DACA can apply for it, but USCIS is not processing any applications. We highly recommend speaking to an immigration attorney before submitting a DACA application.

As a result, our legal services in this area focus largely on renewals, obtaining advance parole for DACA holders so they can travel abroad and return, and helping recipients understand how current laws and policies may affect their status in the United States

Generally, you may be eligible for DACA renewal if:

You currently hold DACA or your status expired less than one year ago
You have not left the United States without permission since August 15, 2012
You have not been convicted of a felony or serious criminal offense
You continue to meet the program’s eligibility requirements

Because eligibility can be affected by even small changes in your circumstances, consulting a DACA immigration lawyer before filing is strongly recommended.

Understanding DACA Renewal Fees

DACA renewal fees include both the USCIS filing fee and biometrics fee. Filing with incorrect forms, missing information, or payment errors can lead to rejection or delays, making accuracy essential.

USCIS recommends submitting your renewal application 120 to 150 days before your current DACA period expires. Filing too late can result in a lapse in protection, while filing too early may also create issues. A lawyer can help ensure your application is submitted at the right time and with proper documentation.

Why DACA Renewals Require Careful Legal Review

DACA renewal is not automatic, and errors or oversights in your filings may lead to delays or loss of status. If you allow your status to lapse, you could lose both your deferred action and your work authorization.

Certain changes in your situation may affect your eligibility for renewal, leaving you at risk of removal. This is why USCIS recommends that you begin the renewal process 120 to 150 days before your current DACA period expires.

What can affect your eligibility for DACA renewal? Common issues we see clients run into include:

Criminal charges, arrests, and convictions
Unapproved travel outside the United States
Errors in previous applications
Gaps in DACA coverage

Accuracy is crucial on any immigration-related document, but it’s particularly important when your deferred action is based entirely on a timely renewal. Complying with program requirements at all times is crucial.

Advance Parole for DACA Recipients

Some DACA recipients may be eligible to apply for DACA advance parole, which allows temporary international travel for specific reasons such as education, employment, or humanitarian purposes. Advance parole carries risks, and travel without proper authorization can result in loss of DACA protections.

Before applying for advance parole or making travel plans, it is critical to speak with a knowledgeable DACA immigration lawyer who can evaluate your eligibility and explain the potential consequences.

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Additional Legal Services for DACA Recipients

While many DACA recipients come to us for help with the renewal or advance parole DACA process, we recognize that many recipients benefit from a broader range of immigration options as well. Remember, DACA does not offer a direct path to legal residency or citizenship, but we can help you explore options that do. Our team of immigration attorneys can assist with:

Exploring your eligibility for other immigration options
Looking into family-based or employment-based pathways
Guidance on travel risks and documentation
Assisting clients on interactions with law enforcement and federal immigration officers
Supporting clients through policy and legal changes that affect DACA

Long-term planning is critical for individuals who need to maintain their DACA status for employment and financial stability.

How Lira Bravo Law Can Help DACA Recipients

At Lira Bravo Law, we help clients with more than just form preparation. We review eligibility before filing a renewal and address any unexpected issues or concerns. We also monitor court decisions and policy updates to provide the most up-to-date guidance to our clients. When clients qualify for different paths to permanent residency, we help them understand the options available to them and make the best choice for their future.

When you choose our immigration law firm, we’ll do a full review of your status and any complicating factors so we can confirm eligibility and protect you from issues that may threaten your ability to remain in the United States. We will provide advice on long-term immigration planning so you can plan your next steps.

Whether you need assistance renewing DACA or looking into other immigration pathways, our team is here to help you move forward. Contact us online or call us at 214-390-6294 to set up a consultation at our Dallas office.