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statusPomonaUpdated: February 14, 202612 min read

DACA Renewal Services in Pomona: Trusted Help for Arab Dreamers and DACA Recipients

Expert DACA renewal assistance for Pomona's Arab community with Arabic-speaking staff and personalized guidance

SoCal Immigration Services
Reviewed by: Maria Santos, DOJ Accredited Representative

Quick Answer

Pomona, nestled in the eastern San Gabriel Valley of Los Angeles County, is home to a growing Arab immigrant community that includes DACA recipients who arrived as children and have built their lives in this vibrant city. With over 150,000 residents and strong ties to both the Inland Empire and greater Los Angeles, Pomona's Dreamers face unique challenges navigating the DACA renewal process. SoCal Immigration Services provides dedicated Arabic-speaking support to ensure every eligible DACA recipient in Pomona maintains their protected status and work authorization without interruption.

Reviewed for accuracy by

Maria Santos

DOJ Accredited Representative • 15+ years experience

Pomona, nestled in the eastern San Gabriel Valley of Los Angeles County, is home to a growing Arab immigrant community that includes DACA recipients who arrived as children and have built their lives in this vibrant city. With over 150,000 residents and strong ties to both the Inland Empire and greater Los Angeles, Pomona's Dreamers face unique challenges navigating the DACA renewal process. SoCal Immigration Services provides dedicated Arabic-speaking support to ensure every eligible DACA recipient in Pomona maintains their protected status and work authorization without interruption.

Understanding DACA Renewal in 2026

Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) continues to protect eligible individuals who arrived in the United States as children from deportation while granting them work authorization. As of 2026, USCIS processes approximately 600,000 DACA renewal applications annually, and timely renewal remains critical for Pomona residents who depend on their Employment Authorization Documents (EADs) for employment, driver's licenses, and daily life.

The current DACA renewal fee is $495, which covers the I-821D (Consideration of Deferred Action) and I-765 (Application for Employment Authorization). USCIS recommends filing your renewal 120 to 150 days before your current DACA and EAD expire. Filing within this window helps prevent gaps in work authorization and ensures continuous protection.

For Arab DACA recipients in Pomona, our Arabic-speaking team eliminates language barriers and provides culturally sensitive guidance through every step of the renewal process.

DACA Renewal Eligibility Requirements

To renew your DACA status in Pomona, you must meet all of the following requirements:
  • You currently have or previously had DACA status (no first-time applications are being accepted as of 2026)
  • You have not departed the United States without advance parole since your last DACA approval
  • You have continuously resided in the United States since your last DACA approval
  • You have not been convicted of a felony, a significant misdemeanor, or three or more non-significant misdemeanors
  • You do not pose a threat to national security or public safety
  • You are not in removal proceedings unless your case has been administratively closed or terminated

Step-by-Step DACA Renewal Process

Our Pomona team guides you through each stage of the DACA renewal process:
  1. 1
    Initial Assessment and Document Review

    We review your current DACA status, expiration dates, and any changes since your last renewal. Our Arabic-speaking staff ensures you understand every requirement.

  2. 2
    Complete Form I-821D

    We help you accurately complete the Consideration of Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals form, ensuring all information matches your previous filings and current records.

  3. 3
    Complete Form I-765 and I-765WS

    The Application for Employment Authorization and the accompanying worksheet documenting economic necessity for work authorization are prepared with careful attention to detail.

  4. 4
    Gather Supporting Documents

    We compile copies of your previous EAD (front and back), I-797 approval notice, two passport-style photos, and evidence of continuous residence since your last approval.

  5. 5
    Fee Payment and Filing

    We ensure the $495 filing fee is submitted correctly, or assist with fee exemption requests for qualifying individuals. Your complete package is filed with USCIS.

  6. 6
    Biometrics and Case Tracking

    After filing, we help you prepare for your biometrics appointment at the nearest ASC and track your case status through USCIS online systems until your new EAD arrives.

DACA Renewal Costs and Fee Assistance

Understanding the financial requirements for DACA renewal helps Pomona families plan ahead:
ItemCostNotes
USCIS Filing Fee (I-821D + I-765)$495Required for all renewals; no fee waivers available
Passport-Style Photos$10-$15Two photos required; available at local pharmacies
Document Copies$5-$20Copies of EAD, I-797, identification documents
Certified Mail / Tracking$7-$15Recommended for proof of timely filing
SoCal Immigration AssistanceCall for quoteSliding scale available for qualifying families

Common DACA Renewal Mistakes to Avoid

Many Pomona DACA recipients risk delays or denials by making avoidable errors. Our team has identified the most frequent mistakes and helps you avoid them:
  • Filing too late: Submitting your renewal less than 120 days before expiration creates dangerous gaps in work authorization and protection
  • Filing too early: Submitting more than 150 days before expiration may result in USCIS returning your application
  • Inconsistent information: Names, addresses, or dates that do not match previous filings trigger additional scrutiny and delays
  • Missing signatures: Every form must be signed in ink; unsigned forms are automatically rejected
  • Wrong filing fee: Sending the incorrect amount or an expired check causes your entire package to be returned
  • Failing to report address changes: You must file Form AR-11 for any address change and reflect it in your renewal
  • Traveling without advance parole: Any departure from the U.S. without approved advance parole terminates your DACA status permanently
  • Not reporting criminal incidents: Even minor traffic violations must be disclosed; failure to report can lead to denial or termination

What Happens If Your DACA Expires Before Renewal Approval

If your DACA status expires while your renewal is pending, the consequences depend on when you filed:

If you filed on time (120-150 days before expiration), USCIS may issue an automatic extension of your EAD for up to 180 days while your renewal is being processed. This automatic extension provision helps prevent gaps in work authorization for timely filers.

If you filed late or your case takes longer than expected, you may experience a gap period where you lack work authorization and deferred action protection. During this gap, you cannot legally work, and you lose the protection from deportation that DACA provides.

The average DACA renewal processing time at the California Service Center is currently 3 to 5 months. However, some cases take longer due to background checks, requests for additional evidence, or high filing volumes. Our team monitors your case closely and contacts USCIS on your behalf if processing exceeds normal timeframes.

Frequently Asked Questions About DACA Renewal in Pomona

Common questions from Pomona's Arab DACA community:
  • Q: Can I apply for DACA for the first time in 2026? A: No. As of 2026, USCIS is not accepting new first-time DACA applications due to ongoing federal court litigation. Only renewals for current or previous DACA recipients are being processed.
  • Q: How long does DACA renewal take in California? A: The California Service Center typically processes DACA renewals in 3 to 5 months. Filing 120-150 days before expiration ensures continuous coverage even with processing delays.
  • Q: Can I travel outside the U.S. with DACA? A: Only with approved advance parole, and only for humanitarian, educational, or employment purposes. Traveling without advance parole permanently terminates your DACA status. Consult our team before any international travel.
  • Q: What if I got a traffic ticket since my last renewal? A: All encounters with law enforcement, including traffic tickets, must be disclosed on your renewal application. Minor traffic infractions typically do not affect eligibility, but failure to disclose them can result in denial.
  • Q: Does DACA lead to a green card? A: DACA alone does not provide a path to permanent residence. However, some DACA recipients may qualify for green cards through marriage to a U.S. citizen, employer sponsorship, or other immigration categories. Our team evaluates your individual options.
  • Q: What if my name or address changed since my last renewal? A: You must update your information with USCIS by filing Form AR-11 for address changes and providing legal documentation for name changes. Our team ensures all records are consistent across your renewal forms.
  • Q: Can USCIS share my DACA information with ICE? A: USCIS has stated that information provided for DACA is protected and generally not shared for enforcement purposes, except in cases involving criminal activity, fraud, or national security threats.

Why Choose SoCal Immigration Services for DACA Renewal in Pomona

Pomona's Arab Dreamers deserve immigration assistance from a team that understands their language, culture, and community. SoCal Immigration Services stands apart because of our deep commitment to the Arab immigrant community:
  • Arabic-speaking staff who communicate with you in your preferred language throughout the entire renewal process
  • Over a decade of experience helping Arab DACA recipients maintain their protected status without interruption
  • Convenient location serving Pomona, Claremont, La Verne, San Dimas, Diamond Bar, and the entire eastern San Gabriel Valley
  • Personalized case tracking so you always know the status of your renewal application
  • Culturally sensitive approach that respects family privacy and community values
  • Affordable sliding-scale fees with payment plans available for qualifying families
  • Comprehensive review of additional immigration options beyond DACA, including marriage-based green cards, U-visas, and employer sponsorship

Contact SoCal Immigration Services

For DACA renewal help in Pomona, contact SoCal Immigration Services today. Call (714) 421-8872 for a free consultation. Our Arabic-speaking team serves Pomona, Claremont, La Verne, San Dimas, West Covina, Diamond Bar, and all of Southern California. Do not wait until your DACA expires to start the renewal process.

FAQFrequently Asked Questions

Q:How early should I start my DACA renewal in Pomona?

A: File your renewal 120 to 150 days before your current DACA and EAD expire. This window gives USCIS enough time to process your renewal before your current status expires.

Q:What documents do I need for DACA renewal?

A: You need copies of your current EAD (front and back), previous I-797 approval notice, two passport-style photos, and evidence of continuous residence. Our team provides a complete checklist.

Q:Is there financial help available for the $495 DACA renewal fee?

A: USCIS does not offer fee waivers for DACA renewals. However, some nonprofit organizations and community groups offer financial assistance. Our team can connect you with local resources in Pomona.

Q:Can I work while my DACA renewal is pending?

A: If you filed on time and received an automatic EAD extension, you can continue working for up to 180 days past your EAD expiration. If your extension expires before approval, you must stop working until your new EAD arrives.

Disclaimer: This article provides general information about immigration services in Pomona and does not constitute legal advice. SoCal Immigration Services is a document preparation company, not a law firm. For legal advice specific to your situation, please consult with a licensed immigration attorney.
Published: February 14, 2026Last Updated: February 14, 2026

Protect Your DACA Status in Pomona

Do not let your DACA expire. Our Arabic-speaking team in Pomona helps Dreamers renew on time and explore all available immigration options.

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