Will I Get Deported if I Am Arrested for a DWI?

 Posted on March 19, 2025 in Immigration

For non-citizens living in the United States, an arrest for driving under the influence (DUI, or DWI in Texas) can be very scary. Beyond the usual legal consequences, there is the fear of deportation, visa revocation, or losing the ability to apply for permanent residency. Whether you are a green card holder, student visa holder, or undocumented immigrant, a DUI charge can have serious immigration consequences.

At The Meza Law Firm, PLLC, we understand how overwhelming this situation can be. Our firm is small by design — just one Texas DWI defense attorney and two dedicated assistants — so we work closely with every client to create a custom legal strategy that addresses both the criminal case and the immigration fallout. Nuestro abogado habla español. Whether in English or Spanish, we give our clients clear, honest guidance to help them understand their options.

Can a DWI Lead to Deportation?

A single DUI conviction does not always mean you will be deported. However, certain things can increase the risk of immigration consequences, including:

• Having prior criminal convictions
• Driving without a license
• Having more serious factors such as causing injury or having a child in the car
• Being charged with DUI with drugs (DWI) rather than alcohol
• Holding temporary status, such as a student visa or work visa

For green card holders, a DUI usually will not directly lead to deportation, but it could affect future citizenship applications or trigger a removal proceeding if there are other criminal charges. Undocumented immigrants face a greater risk of deportation if they are arrested for any crime, including DUI.

What Happens to My Status After a DUI Arrest?

The impact of a DUI on your immigration status depends on how your case is handled. If convicted, you may face consequences on top of criminal punishments, such as having your visa revoked or even being placed in an ICE hold and subject to deportation proceedings.

So much depends on your status and the circumstances of the arrest. The best way to protect yourself is to work with an attorney who understands both criminal defense and immigration law.

How Our Law Firm Can Help

At The Meza Law Firm, PLLC, we have experience helping immigrants facing criminal charges navigate the legal system and minimize the impact on their immigration status. Unlike larger firms, we take a personalized approach to every case. Our attorney works directly with you — no passing your case off to a different lawyer or office.

We can:

• Fight to get your DUI charges reduced or dismissed
• Work to avoid a conviction that could impact your immigration status
• Help you apply for a waiver or other legal protections if eligible

Call a Fort Worth, TX Immigration and Criminal Defense Attorney Today

A DUI arrest does not automatically mean you will be deported, but you need to take the charges seriously and take action right away. At The Meza Law Firm, PLLC, our Arlington, TX immigration and criminal defense lawyer helps immigrants fighting criminal charges. Call 817-732-6392 today for a confidential consultation to discuss your options.