What Is DACA (Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals)?

Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals, commonly called DACA, does not grant lawful permanent residence or citizenship. It is an exercise of prosecutorial discretion that defers removal action for eligible individuals for a renewable period and allows them to apply for an Employment Authorization Document. Eligibility has historically depended on age at arrival, continuous residence, education or military-service criteria, and lack of disqualifying criminal history. DACA policy has been heavily litigated, and application rules can change depending on court orders and agency guidance.

DACA status affects employment authorization, driver's license eligibility in many states, and long-term immigration planning, but it is not a permanent status. Recipients and employers need to track renewal timing carefully and understand that travel, advance parole, marriage-based options, or employment-based options can have complicated legal consequences. An immigration attorney can assess current eligibility, renewal strategy, and any possible path beyond deferred action.