DACA (Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals)
DACA has allowed many people who came to the U.S. as children to live and work here. Because the program’s rules can shift, current guidance matters.
Renewals and your options
We help current recipients with timely renewals and review whether other, longer-term options may be available to you.
Frequently asked questions
Can I still renew my DACA?
If you are a current or past DACA recipient, renewals have generally continued to be processed, but this program is subject to ongoing litigation and can change quickly. It is smart to renew early rather than waiting, and a consultation can tell you the best timing for your situation.
Can I apply for DACA for the first time?
Whether brand-new, first-time DACA requests are being accepted has changed due to court rulings, so this is one area you should verify before applying. Even when first-time filings cannot be approved, some people file to preserve their place in line depending on their situation.
Does DACA give me a green card?
No. DACA is not a green card and does not by itself lead to permanent residence, but many DACA recipients have another path to a green card through family, marriage, employment, or other relief. A consultation can help identify whether you may qualify for something more permanent.
Does DACA come with a work permit?
Yes, DACA recipients can generally apply for work authorization (an Employment Authorization Document), which also lets you get a Social Security number. Work permits are issued for a limited period and must be renewed along with your DACA.
Is it safe to apply for or renew DACA right now?
For most current recipients, renewing is a routine process, though because the program is tied up in litigation, your situation should be reviewed before you file. A licensed attorney can look at your specific history and advise you honestly about any risks.
What happens to my DACA if the courts end the program?
Court decisions have generally tried to protect people who already have DACA even while limiting new grants, but the rules can shift, so staying informed matters. If the program changes, an attorney can help you look at other options that may fit your case.
Who originally qualified for DACA?
DACA was created for people who came to the United States as children, met certain age, education, and continuous-residence requirements, and had no serious criminal history. Because eligibility rules are detailed and the program has changed over time, a consultation can confirm whether you meet the criteria.
Can I travel outside the U.S. with DACA?
DACA recipients sometimes travel abroad using advance parole, but permission must be requested and approved in advance, and traveling without it can end your protection. Because travel decisions can affect future immigration options, talk to an attorney before making any plans.
How long does DACA last before I have to renew?
DACA and the related work permit are granted for a set period and then must be renewed, and it is generally recommended to file your renewal several months before it expires. Filing early helps avoid a gap in your work authorization.
What if my DACA already expired?
If your DACA has lapsed, you may still be able to file, but the process and timing can differ depending on how long ago it expired. It is best to speak with an attorney quickly so you understand your options and any deadlines.
Can DACA be denied or revoked?
Yes. DACA can be denied or terminated, often because of criminal issues, certain conduct, or failing to meet the requirements, and it is always granted at the government’s discretion. If you are worried about something in your record, a consultation can help you understand how it may affect you.
Do I need a lawyer to renew DACA?
You are not required to have a lawyer, but a licensed attorney or accredited representative can review your record, catch problems, and see whether you qualify for something better than DACA. Be careful with a notary or “notario,” who cannot give you legal advice under U.S. law.
Can I go to college or get a driver’s license with DACA?
Many DACA recipients attend college and, with work authorization, are often able to obtain a driver’s license and work legally. Because school and licensing programs vary, a consultation can help you understand what your DACA status allows in your situation.
Will renewing DACA affect my family members?
Renewing your own DACA generally does not grant status to your relatives, but your situation can sometimes open doors for family-based options down the road. An attorney can look at your whole family’s circumstances and explain what may be possible.
How much does it cost to renew DACA?
There is a government filing fee for DACA and work-permit renewals, and the amount can change over time. A consultation can give you an up-to-date cost estimate, and we can discuss attorney fees separately so there are no surprises.
Can I get DACA if I have a criminal record?
Certain crimes can make someone ineligible for DACA, but not every offense is disqualifying, and much depends on the specific charge and outcome. Never assume you are barred without having a licensed attorney review the details of your record first.
What documents do I need to renew DACA?
Renewals typically require your prior DACA paperwork, identity documents, and updated information about your address and any encounters with law enforcement. An attorney can give you a checklist tailored to your case so your filing is complete and accurate.
Is DACA the same as asylum or a visa?
No. DACA is a form of deferred action that protects certain people who came here as children; it is different from asylum, a visa, or a green card. If DACA is limited or unavailable, an attorney can help you explore whether another form of relief may fit your situation.
What should I do if I hear DACA news that scares me?
DACA is frequently in the headlines, and not every report means an immediate change to your status, so try not to panic. The best step is to confirm your current status with a trusted attorney rather than acting on rumors, and help is available in Spanish — se habla espanol.
Can I keep my job if DACA changes?
Your work authorization is generally valid until its expiration date printed on the card, even amid program changes, but future renewals could be affected by litigation. An attorney can help you plan ahead and look at longer-term options that do not depend on DACA.
This is federal law — but where you are still matters
What is on this page applies the same way in every state. Which office and court handle your case, how detention works where you are, and how far local police cooperate with immigration enforcement are not the same across California, Arizona and New Mexico. Pick your state for that.