Houston DACA Lawyer
Dedicated Legal Support for DACA Applicants
DACA, or Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals, is a U.S. immigration policy introduced in 2012 under the Obama administration. It offers temporary relief from deportation and work authorization to certain undocumented individuals who were brought to the United States as children. DACA recipients, often referred to as “Dreamers,” are granted these benefits for two years, after which their status may be renewed. However, it does not provide individuals with lawful permanent residency.
Maranto Law Firm can assist you with seeking or renewing DACA status and exploring other immigration options, such as acquiring a green card. Our attorney is an immigrant himself, understanding the stress, confusion, and frustration of dealing with the U.S. immigration system. Mr. Maranto is here to provide you with the advice and guidance you need to find available options that will allow you to remain in the U.S. and achieve lawful immigration status wherever possible.
Navigating the complexities of immigration law demands a meticulous approach, and at Maranto Law Firm, we prioritize understanding the specific circumstances and goals of each client, tailoring our strategies accordingly.
Get the guidance you need from our DACA lawyer in Houston. Connect with Maranto Law Firm for a free case review via email or phone at (855) 961-0601. Hablamos español.
DACA Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for DACA, you must meet the following requirements:
- Entered the U.S. before turning 16 years old.
- Continuously resided in the U.S. since June 15, 2007, up to the present time.
- Were physically present in the U.S. on June 15, 2012, and at the time of requesting DACA.
- Had no lawful status on June 15, 2012.
- Are currently in school, have graduated or obtained a certificate of completion from high school, have obtained a GED, or are an honorably discharged veteran of the U.S. Armed Forces or Coast Guard.
- Have not been convicted of a felony, significant misdemeanor, or three or more other misdemeanors, and do not pose a threat to national security or public safety.
DACA is renewable every two years, but you must request a renewal and undergo a background check. Applications for this status and renewals are done through the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services.
The process includes filing specific immigration forms, which must be accurate and complete. These include Form I-821D (Consideration of Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals), Form I-765 (Application for Employment Authorization), and Form I-765WS (Form I-765 Worksheet). Meeting these requirements ensures that your application is processed smoothly, and any discrepancies can lead to delays or rejection.
You must also include supporting documents, such as proof of identity, proof of arrival in the U.S. before turning 16, proof of continuous residence, and proof of education or military service, along with filing fees. After submitting your application, you will be required to attend a biometrics appointment to provide your fingerprints, photograph, and signature. This information is needed to conduct a background check.
Once that is completed, the USCIS will determine the outcome on a case-by-case basis. The processing time for DACA applications varies but generally takes several months. The timing of your application’s submission can impact the processing timeline, so we advise planning ahead to account for this variability.
Explore the Benefits of DACA
DACA provides you with certain benefits, such as:
- Protection from deportation: DACA recipients are protected from deportation for two years, subject to renewal.
- Work authorization: Recipients are granted work permits, allowing them to legally work in the United States.
- Access to Social Security and Medicare: With a valid work permit, DACA recipients can also access Social Security and Medicare benefits.
- Driver's licenses: In Texas, DACA recipients can obtain driver's licenses.
- Educational opportunities: Texas allows DACA recipients to access in-state tuition rates and financial aid for higher education.
Overall, DACA's benefits extend beyond immediate relief and open avenues for personal growth and stability. By enabling lawful work and education opportunities, beneficiaries can pursue careers and further education with greater security and support. This empowerment can significantly influence the quality of life and prospects for recipients, allowing them to fully integrate and contribute to their communities.
Challenges Faced by DACA Recipients
Unfortunately, DACA has an uncertain future. It has faced legal challenges and its continuation remains uncertain, causing anxiety and insecurity for recipients. While the Biden Administration has promised to fortify DACA, only Congress can act to give Dreamers a permanent solution by providing them with a path to citizenship.
This environment of uncertainty necessitates staying informed and prepared for any changes. Recipients should maintain an organized record of all documents and remain vigilant regarding any shifts in immigration policy. Partnering with knowledgeable legal representatives, such as Maranto Law Firm, can also provide valuable insights and proactive strategies to navigate evolving legal landscapes effectively.
Comprehensive DACA Assistance By a DACA Lawyer In Houston
Maranto Law Firm is dedicated to assisting and supporting your needs in all immigration matters related to DACA. We can guide you through the application or renewal process, help you gather the necessary documentation, and advise you on your eligibility for other forms of immigration relief. You may be eligible for family-based immigration or have other available options. Our firm’s understanding of the legal intricacies ensures that every client can explore their options with confidence and clarity.
To learn more, we highly recommend that you discuss the specifics of your case with Maranto´s DACA Attorney as soon as possible. By engaging in a free initial consultation, you can gain valuable insights into your situation and determine the best course of action to support your immigration goals in Houston.
Take advantage of our free initial consultation. Contact us today.
Understanding the DACA Process in Houston
The DACA application process in Houston involves a series of steps that require precision and adherence to specific local procedures. The initial step involves gathering all necessary documents that prove your continuous residency and educational history in the U.S. This includes school transcripts, utility bills, or lease agreements that demonstrate your long-term residence in Houston.
Additionally, understanding the timeline for submitting renewals is crucial. It's advised to start the renewal process at least 120 to 150 days before your current DACA expires, allowing ample time to accommodate any potential delays. By staying informed on these procedural nuances, applicants can avoid common pitfalls and ensure their applications are processed efficiently.
Working with Local Agencies
In Houston, agencies such as the local USCIS application support centers play a pivotal role in processing DACA applications. Applicants need to maintain clear communication with these agencies and attend all scheduled biometric appointments on time. Missing or rescheduling these appointments can cause delays or complications in the application process.
Furthermore, applicants should be aware of local resources offered by community organizations, which assist in navigating the DACA process. These resources often offer translation services, document preparation help, and other forms of support that can be invaluable throughout the application process.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Current Status of DACA Renewals?
DACA renewals are currently being accepted and processed by USCIS, despite ongoing legal challenges surrounding the program. For current DACA recipients, renewing promptly is critical to maintaining your protections and benefits under the program. It is advisable to begin the renewal process well in advance of expiration dates.
Typically, it is recommended to file renewal applications between 120 and 150 days before your current DACA status expires. Doing so ensures continuous coverage and minimizes the risk of legal complications that may arise from delays.
How Can DACA Recipients Prepare for Possible Changes?
Staying informed and proactive is key for DACA recipients amid potential program changes. It's recommended to keep abreast of updates from official USCIS announcements and consult with legal professionals regularly. At Maranto Law Firm, we provide ongoing consultations to help clients understand their current status and prepare for any legislative changes that may impact their standing.
Additionally, maintaining a well-organized portfolio of your legal and personal documents can facilitate quick adjustments to new requirements as they arise.
What Financial Aid is Available for DACA Recipients in Houston?
DACA recipients in Houston have access to various forms of financial aid, particularly for educational purposes. While they are not eligible for federal student aid, DACA recipients can apply for scholarships and grants through private organizations and local institutions. Texas state laws allow DACA recipients to pay in-state tuition rates at public colleges and universities, significantly reducing the financial burden of higher education.
Additionally, several local non-profits and advocacy groups provide financial assistance and legal funding options to ease the costs associated with maintaining DACA status and pursuing further education.
Speak with a Houston DACA lawyer today — contact us online or call Maranto Law Firm at (855) 961-0601. Free consultation. Hablamos español.
