What Is DACA?
Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) is a federal immigration policy established in 2012 that provides temporary protection from deportation and work authorization to certain individuals who were brought to the United States as children without lawful immigration status. DACA does not provide a path to permanent residency or citizenship.
Current Status (2026)
DACA remains in a state of legal uncertainty. In 2023, a federal court in Texas ruled the program unlawful but allowed existing recipients to continue renewing. New initial applications have been blocked since July 2021. The case is subject to ongoing appeals, and the program’s future depends on both judicial outcomes and potential legislative action.
Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for DACA, applicants must have:
- Been under the age of 31 as of June 15, 2012
- Arrived in the United States before their 16th birthday
- Continuously resided in the U.S. since June 15, 2007
- Been physically present in the U.S. on June 15, 2012
- Had no lawful status on June 15, 2012
- Currently enrolled in school, graduated from high school, obtained a GED, or been honorably discharged from the military
- Not been convicted of a felony, significant misdemeanor, or three or more misdemeanors
DACA Benefits
- Deferred action — Protection from deportation (two-year grants, renewable)
- Employment authorization — Work permit (EAD) valid for two years
- Social Security number — Eligible upon receiving EAD
- Advance Parole — Currently suspended for DACA recipients
Renewal Process
Existing DACA recipients may apply for renewal by filing Form I-821D (DACA request), Form I-765 (EAD application), and Form I-765WS (worksheet). USCIS recommends filing for renewal 120-150 days before the current grant expires.
What DACA Does Not Provide
- Lawful immigration status
- A path to permanent residency (green card)
- A path to U.S. citizenship
- Eligibility for federal financial aid or most federal public benefits
Legislative Efforts
Multiple bills have been introduced in Congress to provide a permanent solution for DACA recipients, including the DREAM Act and various comprehensive immigration reform proposals. None have been enacted into law. Follow our Policy Tracker for legislative updates.