DACA Attorney in Houston

Experienced Guidance from Our Immigration Attorneys

On June 15, 2012, the Obama administration announced that certain people who came to the United States as children and meet the requirements set forth below may request consideration of deferred action for a period of two years, subject to renewal. Those individuals will also be allowed to apply for a work permit during that period of time.

Our team at Sebastian Simon Law Group, PLLC has helped people throughout Houston and the surrounding area navigate the DACA process. Applicants often have questions about the unique requirements and documents needed for DACA in Texas. At our Houston office, we keep up with the latest legal changes affecting DACA so we can provide timely guidance. Many local applicants benefit from our experience with the Houston-area U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) office, as application processing steps can differ between locations. We strive to make this process clear and straightforward for you and your family.

Call our DACA lawyers in Houston at (713) 839-0639 today. We can help you find the right solutions for you and your family.

Guidelines for DACA

You may request consideration of deferred action if you:

• Were under the age of 31 as of June 15, 2012
• Came to the U.S. prior to reaching your 16th birthday
• Have continuously resided in the U.S. since June 15, 2007, up to the present time
• Were physically present in the United States on June 15, 2012, and at the time of making your request for consideration of deferred action with USCIS
• Entered without inspection before June 15, 2012, or your lawful immigration status expired as of June 15, 2012
• Are attending, have graduated, or completed high school, have earned a certificate for general education development (GED), or are a veteran of the U.S. Coast Guard or Armed forces who has been honorably discharged
• Have no criminal record that includes felonies, serious or multiple misdemeanors, and are otherwise not a threat to the safety of the public or security of the nation

Because every applicant's situation is different, you should review your eligibility based on your immigration history and education records. DACA policy and requirements may change, so staying informed is critical for anyone considering applying or renewing. Our firm can help you prepare the necessary evidence and explain which documents Houston-area applicants typically need to gather for a DACA request. Meeting the application requirements can feel overwhelming—our attorneys are committed to supporting you as you move forward.

How Do I Benefit from Deferred Action?

If you are granted deferred action, you can legally work in the United States. You may also apply for advance parole, which allows you to travel outside the country for work or humanitarian purposes.

Deferred action offers more than just work authorization. Many recipients in Houston use their DACA status to apply for a driver's license through the Texas Department of Public Safety. This can make daily life and commuting to work or school easier. DACA recipients also discover that having legal work authorization creates new opportunities for employment and education throughout the Houston area. In addition, some local colleges offer financial aid options for DACA recipients, further supporting your plans for the future. These benefits help many individuals and families gain more stability as they build their lives in the Houston community.

The DACA Renewal Process and What to Expect

Renewing DACA status allows recipients to keep their work authorization and protection from removal. In Houston, you should submit your renewal request several months before your status expires, since processing times at the local USCIS office may vary. If your DACA status lapses, you could lose your work permit and face other challenges. Applying early helps you prevent gaps in employment authorization and avoid interruptions in school or work.

To renew, applicants update their information, provide proof of ongoing residency, and confirm they still meet eligibility requirements. The local process in Houston includes fingerprinting and background checks, often conducted at the Town Park Drive USCIS location.  Our DACA attorney in Houston reviews your documents and answers questions about what the Houston office looks for in renewal cases, helping you prepare and move through the process smoothly. Staying current with any new local or national policy changes can make a significant difference when you renew your DACA status.

Understanding DACA Policy Risks and Houston-Specific Changes

DACA policy continues to evolve at both federal and state levels, and court decisions in Texas have shaped the program's status. For Houston applicants, keeping up with changes is crucial, as federal courts in the Southern District of Texas sometimes rule on the future of DACA, which can impact new applications. These court decisions can create uncertainty around eligibility, processing times, and the protections available in the area.

Anyone applying or renewing DACA in Houston should pay attention to the effects of local rulings. Judges may issue guidelines that affect only applicants in Texas, so your experience could differ from people in other states. We monitor these updates and help our clients understand how shifting rules might affect their plans or timing. By working with a DACA attorney in Houston from our firm, you receive current information that helps inform your decisions about DACA status given local developments.

Get Help from Sebastian Simon Law Group

If you would like to determine whether you could request deferred action in your case and possibly apply for work authorization, please contact our immigration lawyers. We are an immigration firm in Houston, Texas who is able to assist you with your deferred action application.

Each situation is unique, and the steps you take now can shape your options in the future. Our Houston-based attorneys stay updated on DACA rulings from Texas federal courts, including decisions that may affect application timing or eligibility for local applicants. If you have questions about submitting your DACA paperwork, gathering supporting documents, or renewing your application in the Houston area, our team is ready to guide you through every stage. We can discuss how changes in policy might impact your circumstances and help you plan your next steps.

Speak with our knowledgeable DACA lawyers in Houston today about your options.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to process a DACA application in Houston?

Processing times vary, but most initial and renewal DACA applications filed in Houston take several months for the USCIS office to review. Delays may occur if more information is requested during the process.

Can DACA recipients in Houston qualify for state benefits or financial aid?

While DACA does not provide federal benefits, some Texas colleges offer certain financial aid opportunities to DACA recipients. Availability depends on each institution's policies and eligibility requirements.

Does a criminal record affect DACA eligibility?

Applicants generally must not have felony convictions or certain misdemeanors to qualify for DACA. The government reviews all criminal history closely as part of the application process. Connect with a knowledgeable DACA lawyer in Houston to learn more about your options.

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