DACA Renewals in El Paso, TX
Helping You Ensure Your DACA Status Doesn’t Expire
For hundreds of thousands of people across the United States, Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) has meant the ability to work legally, study, drive, and live without the constant fear of deportation. This includes thousands right here in El Paso and the surrounding areas. If you received DACA as a child, you know how much that protection means.
But DACA doesn’t last forever. It must be renewed every two years, and missing a renewal deadline or filing an incomplete application can put everything you’ve worked for at risk. At the Winterberg Law Firm, P.C., we help DACA recipients throughout El Paso file accurate, timely renewals so they can stay focused on their lives, their families, and their futures.
Call our firm at (915) 841-9777 for prompt assistance with your DACA renewal.
Who Qualifies to Renew DACA?
To be eligible for a DACA renewal, you must generally meet the following criteria:
- You previously received DACA and your most recent DACA approval has not been terminated
- You have not been convicted of a felony, a significant misdemeanor, or three or more misdemeanors
- You do not pose a threat to national security or public safety
- You are currently in school, have graduated or obtained a GED, have been honorably discharged from the military, or were in school at the time of your most recent DACA grant
If your DACA status has already expired, you may still be eligible to file, but your situation will require careful review. Contact our office as soon as possible so we can assess your options.
When Should You File for DACA Renewal?
USCIS recommends filing your DACA renewal application at least 120 to 150 days (four to five months) before your current DACA expires. This gives enough time for USCIS to process your application before your existing work permit and deferred action status run out.
Filing too late can result in a gap in your employment authorization, meaning you could temporarily lose the ability to work legally. It can also leave you without protection from deportation during the processing period.
We strongly encourage all DACA recipients to track their expiration date carefully and reach out to our office well in advance of the deadline. If you are unsure when your DACA expires, check your current Employment Authorization Document (EAD). The expiration date can be found on this card.
The DACA Renewal Process
Renewing DACA requires submitting a package to USCIS that includes:
- Form I-821D — Consideration of Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals
- Form I-765 — Application for Employment Authorization
- Form I-765WS — Worksheet supporting your Form I-765
- The required filing fees (or a fee exemption request, if applicable)
- Supporting documentation, including a copy of your current EAD and any relevant updated information since your last application
While DACA renewals are generally less document-intensive than initial filings, any errors, omissions, or changes in your personal circumstances can complicate your renewal. Having an experienced immigration attorney review your application before it is submitted can prevent costly mistakes and delays.
Why El Paso DACA Recipients Choose the Winterberg Law Firm
We are a bilingual law firm that makes communication easy in both English and Spanish. We want every Dreamer to feel fully understood and fully supported, regardless of the language they are most comfortable with.
Along with this accessibility, we are also affordable. Our team understands that many DACA recipients are young people balancing work, school, and family responsibilities. That’s why we offer cost-effective services and flexible communication that ensures getting legal help doesn’t add more stress to your life.
When you choose Winterberg, you are getting attorneys who are there for the long haul. Many of our clients have been with us through multiple DACA renewals. That’s not by chance. We build lasting relationships with the people we serve because immigration is not a one-time event, but an ongoing journey.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to renew DACA?
USCIS currently charges a filing fee for DACA renewals. Fee amounts are subject to change, so we recommend confirming the current fee at the time of your consultation. In addition to the government filing fee, our firm charges a legal services fee for preparing and reviewing your application. We will be fully transparent about all costs upfront so there are no surprises.
Can I travel outside the United States on DACA?
DACA alone does not authorize international travel. Leaving the United States without advance parole (a separate form of travel authorization) can result in the termination of your DACA and could trigger bars to re-entry. If you are considering any international travel, speak with our office before you make any plans. This is an area where a single misstep can have serious and lasting consequences.
I have a minor criminal record. Can I still renew my DACA?
It depends on the nature of the offense. Certain convictions, including felonies, significant misdemeanors, and patterns of misdemeanor offenses, can disqualify you from DACA or trigger additional scrutiny. However, not every arrest or minor offense is automatically disqualifying. It is critical that you disclose your full history to our office so we can evaluate your eligibility honestly and prepare your application accordingly. We will never encourage you to omit information, as doing so can have serious legal consequences.
What if my information has changed since my last DACA application?
You are required to provide accurate and current information with your renewal. Changes such as a new address, a new employer, updated contact information, or any criminal history must be reflected in your application. Our firm will walk you through any updates that need to be made to ensure your renewal is complete and accurate.
Does renewing DACA give me a Green Card or citizenship?
No. DACA is a form of deferred action, not a permanent immigration status. It does not directly lead to a Green Card or citizenship. However, some DACA recipients may be eligible for other immigration benefits depending on their circumstances, including Adjustment of Status through a qualifying family relationship. We are happy to review your full situation during a consultation and discuss whether any additional pathways may be available to you.
Schedule Your DACA Renewal Consultation Today
Don’t wait until the last minute to renew your DACA status. The earlier you start the process, the better protected you and your family will be. The Winterberg Law Firm is ready to help you file a complete, accurate renewal and keep your life moving forward. Get started with a call to our office at (915) 841-9777, or by filling out a form online.
